What drives someone to dedicate their life to understanding the human mind – or helping others heal and grow? In this episode of Power of PennWest, we explore the powerful intersection of science and compassion through the stories of students and faculty in psychology and neuroscience.

You’ll hear why they chose these fields, what fuels their curiosity about thought, emotion and behavior and how they’re preparing to support future generations through research, therapy, advocacy and education. From classroom insights to real-world impact, this episode reveals how the study of human experience is both deeply personal and profoundly important.

Today's guests include:

Amber McKay is a senior psychology major at PennWest Edinboro, where she leads as President of the Psychology Club, contributes to research, and works through the campus work-study program.

Brock Young is a junior psychology major at PennWest California from Marianna, PA. On campus, he leads as President of the Psychology Club, serves on the Psychology Student Advisory Board, mentors peers, and guides tours as an admissions ambassador.

Joshua Rathburn is a freshman psychology major at PennWest California, pursuing a Bachelor of Science with plans to become a counselor or therapist.

Dr. Peter McLaughlin. Dr. Peter McLaughlin is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at PennWest, where he leads undergraduate research in behavioral pharmacology – the study of how brain chemicals influence thought, emotion and behavior.