What is your research focused on now, and where do you see it going in the future?
There is much continuity between what I researched while at FRC and what I continue to research today. I am interested in routines and rituals that families engage in that influence health. Social and familial factors that contribute to sustainable behavior change are of particular interest. When I was a postdoc at FRC, I became involved with the Abriendo Caminos research team and helped to implement a health promotion program aimed at improving healthy eating, physical activity, and family time within Hispanic families. The program was recently evaluated using a randomized controlled trial and was effective at improving healthy eating behaviors in both mothers and children who participated in the program. My most recent research used qualitative methodology to examine how families navigated the family-food environment, screen time, and family activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What did you learn during your time at FRC as a postdoctoral research associate?
I am grateful for the opportunities I had while at FRC and feel that they have greatly contributed to where I am today. I strengthened my research skills and gained experience in conducting meta-analyses, implementing a health-promotion program, and coding mealtime videos. My mentors, Drs. Barbara Fiese, Margarita Teran-Garcia, and Angela Wiley, have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory.
What are your activities and interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I spend time with my friends and family, playing with our pets, and reading.