Hello! My name is Renee Arlotti, and I am preparing to enter my final semester at Pitt. I am an FHC Psychology major completing minors in Spanish and Applied Developmental Psychology, as well as a certificate in Public & Professional Writing. I currently work at a psychiatric hospital, and my future plans include getting a PhD in Clinical Psychology. My research and clinical interests involve working with children to study developmental concerns related to psychiatric disorders. My undergraduate coursework has provided detailed insight into the ways in which various healthcare professions work together, so I look forward to expanding my knowledge through the study abroad program, Inter-professional Studies in Health, Rehabilitation and Education in Northern Ireland.

Outside of the classroom, I became interested in working with children through my research lab, the Pitt Parents and Children Laboratory. For this reason, I began taking more developmental psychology courses and realized that a large part of my responsibilities as a future clinical psychologist would involve psychological testing. I can expect to encounter a variety of clinical presentations and complex needs, so I want to have a strong understanding of disability studies to grow my skills as a provider. I look forward to witnessing the broad scope of professionals who assist children with neurodevelopmental disorders in a range of tasks and settings.

Lastly, I am very excited about the opportunity to travel abroad! I can’t wait to see the beautiful landscapes that Ireland has to offer and learn more about Irish history and culture. Did you know that the first direct flight from Pittsburgh to Dublin was only a week ago? I’m a little nervous to fly, but happy that I only have to board once! 

See you in Belfast!