Hi everyone! My name is Annisa, and I’m a senior Psychology major here at Florida State University. I’m involved in research through the Riddle Lab and the Learning Brain Lab, where I’ve explored topics like cognitive control and learning disabilities. I’m also part of the Asian American Student Union and play the guzheng with the FSU Chinese Music Ensemble. I also had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Spain for a year, which broadened my perspective both personally and academically. I’m so excited to show you around and share what makes FSU such a vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring place to be! From academics and student life to hidden gems and personal experiences, I’ll be showing you what it’s really like to be a Nole!

Hometown

Madison, Wi, USA

Major(s)

Psychology

Minor(s)

Biology, Spanish

Clubs, organizations & involvement

First Year Abroad - Valencia, Spain Asian American Student Union Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers National Alliance Mental Illness Cayer Behavioral Group - Registered Behavior Therapist BJ's Party House - Artist Chinese Music Ensemble Yun Dance Group Smile in Style - Photobooth Attendant

Describe your college experience

My college experience at Florida State University has been incredibly enriching, both academically and personally. My time at FSU has been incredibly dynamic and rewarding. I began my college journey through the First Year Abroad program in Valencia, Spain, which gave me a global perspective and helped me grow both personally and academically. Since returning to campus, I’ve been deeply involved in the FSU community through organizations like the Asian American Student Union, the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Academically, I’ve worked as a research assistant in both the Riddle Lab and the Learning Brain Lab, gaining hands-on experience with topics ranging from cognitive control to learning disabilities. I also work as a Registered Behavior Technician at Cayer Behavioral Group, supporting children with autism in building communication and emotional regulation skills. Outside of academics, I stay connected to my creative side by performing in the Chinese Music Ensemble, dancing with Yun Dance Group, and working at Smile in Style as a photobooth attendant. I even work events as an artist with BJ's Party House! FSU has allowed me to explore so many of my interests while finding community, purpose, and growth—and I’d love the opportunity to help future students discover their place here too.

Tip for future students

Don’t be afraid to explore outside your comfort zone. Some of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had—whether it was studying abroad, joining a cultural organization, or getting involved in research—happened because I took a chance and tried something new. FSU offers so many opportunities, and the more you say yes to, the more you’ll grow.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been Relationship Psychology because the professor made the material come to life. She kept the class engaging by incorporating interactive activities and encouraging open discussion with peers. It created a fun and collaborative environment where learning felt natural and meaningful.

Career goals

I hope to become a clinical psychologist after college, with a focus on expanding mental health awareness and improving access to care. Through my work as a Registered Behavior Technician and my involvement in research, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative mental health support can be. I’m especially passionate about making care more inclusive and accessible for underserved and marginalized communities, so everyone can thrive.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night is hanging out with friends—whether we're staying in to watch a movie or going out to grab something to eat. I love that FSU offers so many fun out-of-class activities and a vibrant nightlife scene, so there’s always something to do no matter what mood you're in.

High school or secondary school

Whitefish Bay High School, Whitefish Bay, Wi, USA