PSY Student Researcher Spotlight with Emilee Allwardt

January 20, 2026 - Shelly DeJong

Emilee Allwardt is a senior majoring in psychology (BS) with a minor in cognitive science. Last summer, Emilee started working as a Research Assistant in the Timing, Attention, and Perception (TAP) Lab with Dr. Devin McAuley to gain research experience while exploring her interests in cognition and perception.  

Recently, Emilee received a Provost’s Undergraduate Research Initiative (PURI) Award to help fund her research looking at individual differences in the contribution of working memory to rhythm perceptions. This research has implications for understanding the role that rhythm plays in developmental stuttering. 

 

What drew you to psychology?  

Psychology has been a field of interest for me since high school where I found the underlying reasons for behavior and thought patterns interesting. Since attending MSU as a psychology major, my interest has only grown, and I have learned a lot about cognition, memory, and perception along with their clinical applications to mental health interventions. 

 

Tell us about your research project. Why is this important to you? 

Currently, I am involved in a project that analyzes the role of working memory in differences in rhythm perception for individuals with and without developmental stuttering. Working in the TAP Lab has been a great opportunity to learn new skills and get involved with psychological research in a hands-on way.   

This research is particularly important to me as someone interested in both the cognitive and clinical sides of the field of psychology research. With a focus on working memory and rhythm perception along with the clinical aspects of looking at conditions like developmental stuttering, the Rhythm and Working Memory project has been a perfect blend of my interests in this way. 

 

What has surprised you about doing psychology research? 

One of the most surprising parts of doing psychology research has been understanding how important trial and error is in the process of creating, collecting, and analyzing data.  While the field of research can feel intimidating, a major component of research is in the learning process. It has been a great experience getting to learn from Dr. McAuley, the graduate students, and other RAs and PAs involved in the lab. Everyone is able to learn something new from each other, and this provides a truly collaborative space. 

 

How else are you involved at MSU? 

Along with my research assistantship with the TAP Lab, I am an intern with the Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) Student Mental Health Ambassador Program which is centered around mental health community outreach. This program has been a great outlet to play a more active role in promoting mental health services for the MSU community. Furthermore, I am a member and the Outreach Events Coordinator for the MSU Photography Club, where I help to facilitate club event opportunities for members while integrating my interest in photography. 

 

Who has helped you along your journey at MSU? 

I would like to thank graduate students Bailey Rann and Celeste Uhl as well as Dr. Devin McAuley of the TAP Lab for their guidance and encouragement. I have learned a great amount from them during my time working in the lab.  

I also want to thank Lauren Enty and Dr. Olivia Scott of CAPS for their support and mentorship through the CAPS SMHA Program and for sharing their graduate school experiences and journeys to working in mental healthcare. 

 

What are your plans for the future? 

After I graduate with my bachelor's degree from MSU, I plan to attend graduate school for clinical mental health counseling to eventually work in mental health counseling. I hope to provide support to individuals experiencing mental health concerns. 

 

Favorite MSU memory? 

In my time at MSU, I think my favorite memories so far are just spending time with friends, whether studying at the library or staying up late playing board games!