Completed Research Project

This project was conducted in collaboration with my dissertation advisor, Dr. Robert Lent from the University of Maryland. The study explores how employees advocate for themselves in the workplace and the factors that support or hinder self-advocacy, including self-efficacy, outcome expectations, supervisor support, and personal attachment styles. We also developed a new measure to assess expectations people have when advocating, both positive and negative. Findings suggest that women tend to expect more negative outcomes and feel less confident about self-advocating compared to men. Overall, the study highlights key personal and workplace factors that contribute to successful self-advocacy and career satisfaction.

This study is conducted in collaboration with the Mid-Atlantic ADA Center and Dr. Ellen Fabian from the University of Maryland. Using a qualitative approach, the project explores the unique barriers Black individuals with disabilities face in accessing and exercising their rights under the ADA, as well as the strategies they use to overcome these challenges. Analysis of the data identified seven key themes related to disability rights and benefits under the ADA.To learn more about this project please see the full Research Brief.

This study was conducted in collaboration with Dr. Kelli Crane and Dr. Amy D’Agati from Maryland’s Center for Transition and Career Innovation (CTCI). The project explores how youth access work-based learning experiences (WBLEs) and the role families play in supporting these opportunities. It also examines effective strategies for engaging families in the planning process.

This study, conducted in collaboration with Dr. NaYeon Yang and Dr. Priya Bansal, qualitatively explores how Asian Indians experience the model minority myth.