Jelena A. Simon ‘23 graduated from MSU with degrees in psychology and human biology and went on to receive a graduate degree through the Clinical Health Psychology Master's program at University of Michigan-Dearborn.
She now works as a recruitment coordinator with Dr. Kelly Klump while also serving as an executive board member for the Graduate Women in Science-Mid Michigan Chapter where she provides mentorship to MSU undergrads studying psychology.
Continue reading to learn what Jelena loves about psychology, what MSU organization she’d recommend to any psychology student interested in clinical work, and so much more!
What are you currently up to? How did your PSY education lead you there?
Currently, I am working with Dr. Kelly Klump as the recruitment coordinator for the Women's Health During Midlife Study. I have worked with Dr. Klump since May 2022 and am very grateful to have had the opportunity to gain meaningful experience as a researcher through conference posters, my master's thesis, and day-to-day lab operations over the last 4.5 years. In May 2026, I joined Dr. Klump and other lab members at a national conference in Kona, Hawaii where I presented an independent research project titled “Exploring Sex-Specific Risk Factors for Alcohol Use Problems in Women: The Importance of Positive Urgency.”
I am looking forward to continuing my work in psychology and am preparing my application to Clinical Psychology graduate programs this fall. My psychology education at MSU prepared me for opportunities inside and outside of the classroom. I was exposed to incredible faculty who provided training, mentorship, and opportunities that shaped me into the scientist I am today. It helped me be a competitive candidate for the Clinical Health Psychology Master's program at University of Michigan-Dearborn where I earned my graduate degree. This graduate degree has allowed me to pursue licensure at the master's level to provide therapy and neuropsychological assessments for clients.
What do you love about psychology still today?
Psychology as a science has offered so many meaningful and unique perspectives that have allowed me the opportunity to work towards building a better future. Psychologists have a deep passion for the work they do, and the profession provides a space where we are able to demonstrate that through research, clinical work, and advocacy for mental health and social justice.
What groups, labs, or activities helped you find your place at MSU? How so?
When I joined the Klump Lab in 2022, I was immediately fascinated by clinical psychology and found more ways to get involved. The Klump Lab provides a fast-paced structure that continues to excite and fuel my passion for clinical psychological research.
While at MSU, I also was a volunteer for the Survivor Advocacy & Crisis Intervention team (SACI) where I was able to gain my first experience in speaking with survivors to provide support and resources. I cannot speak highly enough of this organization and would recommend it to any undergraduate psychology student interested in pursuing clinical work. This group provided extraordinary training, as well as cultivated an extremely positive, inclusive, and uplifting environment.
Currently, I serve as an executive board member for the Graduate Women in Science-Mid Michigan Chapter where I provide mentorship to undergraduate women studying Psychology at MSU. I have truly felt the impact of what good mentorship can do and continue to pay it forward.
What were your favorite PSY classes and why?
One of my favorite PSY classes at MSU was PSY 339: Psychology of Women, as studying women's health has been a deep interest of mine in an effort to address the lack of research/data available to better understand complex issues that uniquely impact women on a daily basis. This course helped me clearly define my research interest and gave me different tools that I have been able to bring into a variety of spaces. (i.e. clinical work, research labs, other courses, etc.).
Looking back at your time at MSU, what did you learn?
Looking back at my time at MSU, I am able to recognize the importance of experiential learning. Being able to dive into new environments, content, and conversations allowed me to gain meaningful knowledge in a way that has stuck with me years after graduating. The professional network I had established for myself during that time continues to shape my mindset and practice into the type of scientist I want to be.
Would you like to give a shout out to anyone that's helped you in your journey?
I would like to acknowledge and express my gratitude to the following individuals whose support has allowed me to accomplish this work. Thank you to Dr. Kelly Klump and Dr. Kristen Culbert for continuing to help me navigate this process and allow me the opportunity to further my research experience. I would also like to thank my family and friends for their endless compassion and for setting the precedent on what it means to be resilient. Lastly, the companionship of my dog (Tito), who I adopted in my senior year of college, has been there through it all!
What advice do you have for first-year students who are just starting their MSU journey?
My advice for first-year students who are just starting their MSU journey is to participate fully. The quickest, most effective way to find your place at MSU is by trying new things. You can do this by joining new labs, study groups, music/creative societies, etc. In the era of social media, we can really use online outreach to our advantage by finding ongoing events or clubs on campus.
Anything else you’d like to add?
If you are an undergraduate psychology major, please feel free to contact me for advice. I am happy to help - Go Green!