Freshness Uzo-Hez

Name/Pronouns: Freshness Uzo-Hez (She/Her/Hers)

Major: Psychology

Mentor(s): Dr. James Cavanagh (Psychology Department), Dr. Steven Verney (Psychology Department)

Current Research Title: Examining the role of Socioeconomic Status in the Relationship between Apathy and Executive Functioning among Traumatic Brain Injury Patients

Description: My research investigates how socioeconomic status (SES) may shape the relationship between apathy and executive functioning in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). By exploring SES as a possible moderator or mediator, this study aims to better understand how social and cognitive factors interact in brain injury recovery. This work is driven by a commitment to improving clinical approaches for underserved populations and advancing more equitable neuropsychological care.

When, how, why you got involved in research: I got involved in research when I arrived at UNM as a junior. I attended a URAD workshop that taught me how to reach out to faculty whose work aligned with my interests, and shared opportunities to get involved in research. I was able to apply this knowledge and begun doing work as a research assistant in my labs of interest. Watching a family member struggle with untreated mental illness made me curious about the brain and motivated me to seek answers through science. Research gave me a way to explore those questions systematically and contribute to work that could improve how we understand and treat cognitive and neuropsychological disorders.

Piece of advice: Often, getting involved just starts with asking. Use the resources available to you and don’t be afraid to reach out to faculty or researchers whose work interests you - even if you think you’re not “qualified” yet. Curiosity and initiative go a long way.