Class of 2026: Ashleigh Barnes

Nervous, but overwhelmingly excited to step into my future.

More mature, outgoing, and confident in my skills, knowledge, and identity.

I was fortunate enough to have a variety of research and internship experiences during my time at McDaniel. In my sophomore year, I worked alongside Dr. Stephanie Madsen as one of her research assistants investigating the intersection of art and play among artists and helped present these findings at McDaniel’s Academic Symposium. This first experience with research solidified my desire to build a career in research!

In my junior year, I interned as a research assistant under Javiera Johnson-Hahn, MPS, working on the Bullying Classroom Check-Up study conducted by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. I traveled to multiple elementary schools in Anne Arundel County collecting observational data and conducting surveys. I was able to increase my confidence as a researcher and learn how to integrate feedback into my skill development.

Currently, I am working on my independent capstone research project, which has been my favorite opportunity by far! I am working on investigating the current gap in research regarding how victims’ and defendants’ sexual orientations and genders may impact jurors’ perceptions of a case. While progressing through my capstone, I have gained insight into the process of leading a high-quality research study through framing the initial research question, gaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, applying for grants, collecting and analyzing data, and translating those results into real-world implications within legal settings.

I cannot pick just one faculty, as both Dr. Madsen and Dr. Morris have heavily shaped me and my experience here at McDaniel. Dr. Madsen was the first professor I ever met, as she was my summer advisor during McDaniel Local. She placed me in her Introduction to Psychology course so I could have a familiar face during my first day of classes. Since then, Dr. Madsen has become one of the first professors I turn to for advice and guidance, and she has repeatedly encouraged me to chase every opportunity I could. I met Dr. Morris later in my time here at McDaniel, but she still had an immense impact on me. She has become one of my biggest supporters academically and personally. She consistently motivates me to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone and taught me that asking for help is integral to learning. Without both Dr. Madsen and Dr. Morris, I would not be as confident and knowledgeable as I am today!

The best class I’ve ever had was Developmental Psychology taught by Dr. Madsen. This was my favorite class due to how hands-on it was and the use of discussion to support what we were taught in lectures. One of the most memorable moments for me was baby day; this is a day where parents bring in their babies who are at various developmental stages and we get to observe them responding to different test and environmental factors that showcased class concepts. Not only was it fun to spend an hour with babies, but it was also valuable to see the different concepts come to life.

I’ve been told by friends and professors I seem to do a little bit of everything on campus. Some of the ways I have gotten involved are through my work as a peer mentor, departmental Psychology tutor, the secretary for Psi Chi, writing fellow for Writing in Psychology, and student worker at the Wellness Center. My focus through all these jobs is to help and encourage students to persevere and use their time at McDaniel to grow, make mistakes, and enjoy themselves.

The strength of the connections you make while at McDaniel. Often you hear that the friends you make during orientation won’t last, but after four years, we’ve only gotten closer, especially after becoming roommates! 

My favorite spot on campus is the lower level of Hoover Library. There are tables near the back of the library that overlook the football field. It is a gorgeous view to have while studying or writing papers. 

One thing that really surprised me during my time at McDaniel is how big the tailgates are during football games, especially Homecoming. So many alumni come up, and everyone has so much fun eating food and listening to music during the game; it’s definitely one of my favorite events on campus.

“The Effect of Gender and Sexual Orientation on Juror Perceptions in Rape Trial”

My capstone aims to explore whether gender and sexual orientation of those involved in an alleged rape case might impact how mock jurors make decisions and perceive the case. 

After graduation, I will be attending the University of Georgia to begin my Ph.D. in Sociology!

I plan on staying connected to McDaniel by visiting during events like Homecoming and connecting with current undergraduates interested in similar topics and careers.

Financial aid is the only reason I was able to attend college and took some of the stress off my family and myself when planning my future. I have been able to pursue so many opportunities due to financial aid offered by McDaniel.

Being a first-generation student has meant everything to me. Coming from two teen parents, college was something I wouldn’t have been able to pursue without their sacrifices, and I credit all my success to them. It has been a difficult journey navigating how to be a college student without having them to fall back on, especially now when applying to graduate school. However, they consistently offer support in every other way!