COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES 29 challenges, Bennett develops skills that guide every aspect of her work, cultivating curiosity, flexibility, and openness to new solutions. Bennett balances her research with teaching Introduction to Psychology and Human Development at Lehigh County Community College and Luzerne County Community College. Teaching allows her to test ideas and refine her research, bridging theory and practice. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, traveling, playing sports, and spending time outdoors. “Balance is key,” she says. “It’s not just about research; it’s about maintaining focus and energy across every part of life.” Activities like snowboarding or soccer help her recharge and bring fresh perspective to her work. For Bennett, Lehigh has been more than just a place to conduct research; it’s a community that inspires curiosity, collaboration, and personal growth. She envisions a rewarding career blending research and teaching, translating her findings into practical strategies that help people stay focused and remember what matters most. She is currently applying to Ph.D. programs, hoping to advance her research on attention, uncover new insights, and mentor students beginning their own journeys in cognitive psychology. “Every day, our brains decide what to notice and what to ignore,” Bennett says. “Understanding these processes isn’t just about science; it’s about helping people manage attention and working memory in the real world. If we can learn how to strengthen focus and reduce the impact of distractions, we can improve learning, productivity, and overall well-being. I hope my research not only advances knowledge in the lab but also provides tools people can use in their everyday lives.” ● perspective guides the creativity and adaptability she brings to her research. When she chose to pursue her master’s degree, Bennett sought a program that would challenge her while aligning with her interests. Lehigh University stood out for its supportive academic environment and the opportunity to work with Nancy Carlisle, a leading expert in cognitive psychology. “Dr. Carlisle pushes us every day and breaks down complex ideas so we can build on them,” Bennett says. Her mentorship blends behavioral studies with neurophysiological methods, allowing Bennett to design experiments carefully and extract meaningful insights from complex data. Research is rarely a straight path. “The most difficult moments often lead to the greatest discoveries, pushing you to learn, adapt, and uncover new solutions,” Bennett explains. From designing experiments to analyzing data and refining hypotheses, she treats each challenge as an opportunity to better understand how attention and working memory interact. Even small interruptions can alter the way information is maintained in working memory, highlighting the brain’s adaptability. Patience is essential. “Sometimes experiments don’t go as planned, or results are unclear,” she says. “Those moments are frustrating, but they’re also when you learn the most.” Through these Haley Bennett
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