Isabella DeGaris headshot
Isabella DeGaris
M.S. Student, HDFS

 

Education
B.A. Spanish; Minor HDFS, Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies

Research interests
• Holistic approaches and rehabilitation strategies for children and youth of military families experiencing emotional, psychological, behavioral, and academic disruptions
• Developmentally appropriate language, education, and explanation of medical diagnosis or untimely demise for children and youth of military families
• Mental health preparation, proactiveness and intervention with a focus on trauma (physical and physiological) and bereavement support within the Special Operations community
• Family centered care practices during the transition into civilian life after Operators Syndrome or PTSD diagnosis, or high TBI exposures
Clinical interests
• Micro-dosing (psychedelic-assisted therapy) and its impact on treating military related traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Fun Facts
Favorite books/movies?
I’m a huge fan of classic literature. My favorite books are The Count of Monte Cristo, The Sun Also Rises, and The Awakening.

Hobbies/hidden talents?
I love learning languages. I speak three right now and would love to begin studying a fourth soon!

What advice would you offer to someone thinking about graduate school?
At my first-year orientation, a professor voiced the following: “If graduate school were easy, everyone would do it.” That being said, the advice I would offer someone thinking about graduate school is that the work is worth the reward. You will be surrounding by brilliant minds, influential mentors, and compassionate individuals that will teach and grow you both personally and professionally.