Honor Society® member
Ashley Simmons
Behavioral Health Professional/ Ed Tech III at Atlantic Academy
- PhD Developmental Psychology
- Class of 2027
- Camdeb, Maine
Member since February 2026
About
I am a PhD student in developmental psychology with a passion for understanding how family dynamics shape children’s development. My research explores role ambiguity in stepfamilies and how blended family structures can better support children’s emotional and developmental well-being. As a first-generation college student who has maintained a 4.0 GPA in graduate school, I am dedicated to using education and research to create positive social change. I hope to build a career in higher education as both a researcher and professor. When I am not studying, I enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, cooking, baking, and spending time with my family and our pets.
Education
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Thomas College
Master's in Business Administration.
2013 – 2014
-
Thomas College
Finance/Political Science International Relations
2009 – 2013
Goals and interests
- Career goal
My long-term goal is to pursue a career in higher education as both a researcher and professor. Through my work, I hope to contribute meaningful research on stepfamilies and family systems while mentoring students—especially first-generation students—who are navigating their own educational journeys.
- Graduate school interests
Developmental psychology, child development, family systems research, stepfamily dynamics, role ambiguity in blended families, family transitions and child adjustment, social and emotional development, qualitative research methods, educational psychology, higher education, academic research, teaching and mentorship.
- Outside the classroom
I enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, cooking, baking, and spending time with my family and our pets.
Experience
-
Behavioral Health Professional/ Ed Tech III
Atlantic Academy
Aug 2024 – Present
Languages
- English (US) Advanced
