#Fisher2025: For Psychology Grad, Next Stop is Doctoral Degree

This fall, Natalie Byrd ’25 will continue her education at Pennsylvania State University, pursuing advanced degrees in developmental psychology. With a passion for the field, she hopes to earn a doctoral degree and launch a career in academia.

Byrd majored in psychology and during her time at Fisher, was an active member of the department. She was inducted into Psi Chi, the psychology honor society, and was a member of The Body Talk, a body positivity student organization; the Psychology Club; and the Honors Program.

As a transfer student, Byrd said that making the transition from a larger school to Fisher allowed her to create close relationships with faculty and staff.

“Fisher not only provides a quality education that leaves you with the skills and applicable experience that graduate schools and employers are looking for but also provides above-and-beyond support to get you there,” she said. “The faculty and staff truly want to see you succeed academically and personally, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Among the most impactful experiences was her time as a Summer Research Fellow collaborating with Dr. Jessica Robinson, assistant professor of psychology.

“This is the experience that solidified my decision to pursue research as a career to follow my passion and give back to the privilege of excellent mentorship I had,” she said.