Intern Testimonials
Interested in applying to the PSA Intern Program but want to learn more about what the program is really like?
Read below to hear from past interns on their experiences and advice!
Taylor Nguyen
My name is Taylor and I graduated in June, 2026! I am currently a full time Research Assistant working at the Brown University Cognition, Emotion, and Life Experiences Lab in Butler Hospital. I love drinking matcha, reading books, drawing, and playing video games like Baldur’s Gate :) I am interested in pursuing a PhD in Psychology, with research interests in emotional processes across the lifespan.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Marketing
Spring - Community Service
How did the intern program help you grow?
I learned basic professional skills like formatting my resume, learning what I wanted to do post graduation, and how to work well on a team!
What is your favorite memory from the program?
I loved doing dare bingos with my fellow interns because I ended up cooking food for another intern, Crystal, as a dare and getting close to her!
What are some highlights of the intern program?
Access to shadowing board member duties, collaborating with like minded people, and making friends with other interns!
Why should people apply to be an intern?
Being a part of the internship program can help you build foundational professional and academic skills that propel you to whatever you want to pursue a career in. I definitely got my start in other academic extracurriculars by being an intern.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Communicate your opinions respectfully to each other and remember to have fun in the program :)
Fiona Graham
I am a third year majoring in Psychological Science and minoring in management! I am interested in the combination of psychology and business and how it can be affected in businesses. I enjoy marketing and I/O Psych related fields and love to spend my time being creative. I love planning and organizing and keeping a busy schedule while prioritizing self care. I love thrifting, collecting trinkets like sonny angels, and doing my nails.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Marketing
Spring - Social
How did the intern program help you grow?
My marketing intern experience helped me get super comfortable editing with CapCut that I wasnt used to prior to the internship. I learned the importance of marketing and how with the technical choice of colors, fonts, and photos can be impactful.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
Hanging out with the marketing board and other intern and finding a community I can rely on. The PSA internship truly made my UCI experience amazing and I am so grateful for it.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
Designing and working on intern led meetings. Both the academic and social meetings helped me see a glimpse into the hard work the board does to prepare for weekly meetings and made me want to apply for board.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
Everyone can get something out of interning. Whether its a friend, finding out if you like a field in psychology or if you dont like one, everyone can learn something about themselves.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Get close to fellow interns and board members because what you put into the internship is what you get out of it! You never know what opportunities it can get you.
James Manalang
hi! my name is james manalang, i am a first year dental student at USC (D1), aspiring to be a dentist! i graduated in UC Irvine with Biological Sciences in 2025 (it goes by fast i promise). i currently love playing basketball, pickleball, going on walks and having fun with friends!
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Outreach
Spring - Outreach
How did the intern program help you grow?
going into PSA, i was definitely shy and scared to approach people, so joining this internship program really pushed me to make connections and gain leadership. as of result, it was the best decision of my life, as i grew so much personally and professionally through PSA and their intern program.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
my favorite memories were hanging out with the interns after club & making friends
What are some highlights of the intern program?
being able to get closer with the board and grow professionally and personally.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
gain leadership experience and develop teamwork skills; and overall make friends!
Do you have any advice for future interns?
never be shy (yap and be yourself) and be an amazing team player!
Kate Magana
Hi! I’m Kate Magana, a third‑year double major in Psychological Science (BA) and Education Sciences (BA) at UCI. I’m working toward a career as a school psychologist. I’m passionate about understanding how people learn, helping others navigate challenges, and creating positive, inclusive school environments. Outside of academics, I love going to the gym, cooking, running, playing tennis, taking digital camera photos, going on hikes, and making playlists.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Community Service
Spring - Marketing
How did the intern program help you grow?
Before joining the intern program, I had limited experience connecting psychology to community service because I had only ever organized large events in high school. Throughout the internship, I learned how to plan and coordinate meaningful volunteer opportunities, collaborate effectively with board members, and create initiatives that encourage consistent member participation. The experience helped me grow in confidence, communication, and leadership, especially in designing events with real community impact.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
One of my favorite memories from the intern program was visiting OCFC and spending time with foster youth, especially playing charades and seeing everyone open up and have fun together. I also loved our paper crane community service event, where we combined creativity with meaningful outreach. Both experiences reminded me how impactful small moments of connection can be.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
One of my favorite memories from the intern program was visiting Orangewood Children and Family Center, a 24‑hour emergency shelter and crisis center for children and teens. Playing charades with the youth and seeing them laugh and open up made the experience incredibly meaningful. I also loved our paper crane community service event, which blended creativity with outreach and reminded me how small acts of connection can make a real impact.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
People should apply to be an intern because it’s a great way to build hands‑on experience, develop leadership skills, and create meaningful community‑focused events. The program also connects you to more internships at UCI and helps you build valuable relationships that can open doors to future opportunities. It’s a supportive space to make a real impact. It is also a great way to make friends who are also passionate about psychology and who have similar goals to yours.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Staying on top of your work is one of the best ways to make the most of the intern program, since it helps you stay organized and confident as you take on new responsibilities. Also, don’t be afraid to get to know your mentors and co‑interns. Building those connections can make the experience more meaningful, and you might even end up making a really good friend. The more you put into the program, the more you’ll grow from it!
Paige Henderson
Hi! I am a sophomore psychology major planning to switch from B.A. to B.S. and I am interested in pursuing a career in neuropsychology! I am interested in the study of how the brain changes with aging and the impact of neurodegenerative diseases. Outside of school I really love to read, spend time with my friends, and spend time outside!
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Secretary
Spring - Community Service
How did the intern program help you grow?
The intern program completely transformed and shaped my freshman year experience at UCI. Not only did I gain such wonderful friends and a community of support, but also professional growth, career guidance, and valuable mentorship that helped me understand what I wanted for my future, as well as myself. Before the internship I had no idea what I wanted for my future, but through guidance and a great introduction to so many fields of psychology, I was able to find a study that I am so passionate about.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
One of my favorite memories from the intern program was the academic general meeting that we created and led. The whole group had worked so hard on the entire event and seeing it come to fruition and be executed was so fulfilling as well as just fun! It challenged us all in our positions and taught us what it was like to be on board and work as a team.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
There are so many highlights to the intern program but some of my favorites are all the things you learn by working so closely with other students in psychology who want to push each other to be the best that they can be. I learned so much about myself, what I wanted for my future, and how to pursue what I wanted through the internship. I also enjoyed all of the coffee chats with fellow interns and board members, it was so enjoyable to spend time dedicated to getting to know each other.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
People should apply to be interns if they want to get more involved at UCI and immerse themselves in the field of psychology, as well as other related fields. Not only is it a great learning opportunity for pursuing psychology, but it is also a great way to find a community that is supportive of one another and wants to grow together and improve.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
My advice for future interns would be to come in with an open mind and an expectation to learn and grow. Also be ready to meet some great people that hopefully become friends that you can lean on as well as learn from!
Wesley Zhu
Hai! I'm Wesley, and I'm a 2nd-year student! I'm a Psychology B.A. looking to pursue a Management Minor as well. I'm interested in I/O Psychology and am planning to get a master's after I graduate. My main pastime is 'hobby collecting'—I love trying out whatever my close friends and family are passionate about. Whether that means music, traveling, or exploring new grub spots, I love experiencing the things they enjoy!
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Outreach
Spring - Social
How did the intern program help you grow?
Like a lot of students, I wasn't super involved my first year while trying to find my footing at UCI. Joining the PSA intern program completely changed that by introducing me to an incredible, supportive group of friends who constantly motivate me to chase my goals! Whether it was learning how to plan events, collaborate with a team, or just stepping out of my comfort zone, the experience helped me grow and allowed me the skills to give back to PSA!
What is your favorite memory from the program?
My favorite moments always revolved around anytime our intern class hung out! It didn’t matter if we were stressing over our next fundraiser, running an intern-led event, or just decompressing at an after-social. Bonding over those shared experiences is the true highlight of the program and exactly how you build lifelong friendships.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
A major highlight of the intern program was getting to work closely with the board members. Seeing the behind-the-scenes planning that goes into our PSA events was so insightful, but the mentorship was definitely the best part. I got to learn valuable leadership skills from someone who became a great friend and a trusted guide for navigating my time at UCI!
Why should people apply to be an intern?
Whether or not you’re completely set on pursuing something in psychology, this program is incredibly valuable for building real leadership skills and getting more involved in campus life at UCI! Though honestly, the community alone makes the whole experience worth it. Surrounding yourself with peers who are passionate and driven will push you to grow and get closer to your own goals!
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Taking the leap to apply is already a huge first step, but don't stop there! Once you're in, keep putting yourself in front of opportunities. Meet the general members, chat with the board, and never hesitate to ask questions. This program is designed to help you grow, and being comfortable leaning on your community is the best way to make that happen!
Boris Lee
Hello! My name is Boris Lee and I graduated UCI in 2024 with a B.A. in Psychological Science. I was part of PSA for 3 years, 1 as a member/intern and 2 as the club Webmaster.
After I graduated, I have been working as a behavior therapist at multiple schools to help children with executive functioning challenges. I plan to going back to graduate school in School Psychology after getting a little more hands-on experience in the field.
In my free time, I love to spend my time outdoors, specifically running and playing pickleball! I also love watching all types of sports, and I'm currently most invested in baseball and football.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Webmaster
Spring - Webmaster
How did the intern program help you grow?
Being the webmaster intern helped me learn how PSA as a campus organization functioned. It taught me to be organized and stay informed on what is happening in the club and also on campus so that the website can stay updated.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
One of my favorite memories from the intern program was having 1-on-1 hangout with Jarrod, the Webmaster at the time. Getting to know him on a more personal level really helped me feel more connected with the club as a whole and sparked my interest to take on a leadership role in the year after that.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
One highlight is the 1 quarterly meeting that the interns are in charged of planning as well as running.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
People should apply to be an intern because it gives you the opportunity to network and connect with people that you may not have the chance to talk to before. It also allows you to better understand the different paths of psychology and helps you discover which one stands out to you.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
The most important advice I could give is to step into the discomfort and put yourself out there. Even if it feels awkward or wrong, talking and networking is the way to open the doors for impactful opportunities that could be career changing!
Lili Guerrero
Hi! I’m Lili and am a third year Psychology B.S. major. I’m interested in pursuing a career in speech language pathology! In my free time I love to read, grab food with friends and watch movies!
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Treasurer
Spring - Secretary
How did the intern program help you grow?
The intern program helped me grow professionally and personally. Before the program I didn’t have much professional experience and wasn’t super involved on campus. However after becoming an intern I got out of my shell and met a ton of amazing people with similar interests. I also helped coordinate PSA events and became more confident in my communication and teamwork skills.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
One of my favorite memories from the program was the intern board beach day because I got closer with the other interns and board members. Everyone in my intern group was so fun to hang out with and made my second year so memorable.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
Planning and executing your own intern led meetings and collaborating with board members on different tasks that help PSA run smoothly behind the scenes.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
You should apply to be an intern because you’ll meet amazing people and develop your leadership and communication skills! It’s a great way to get more involved in PSA and the UCI community.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your fellow interns or board members! Everyone is so nice and welcoming and genuinely wants you to succeed. Plus you’ll probably make an amazing friend or learning something new!
Rayann DeGuia
Hello everyone!! My name is Rayann DeGuia, and I am from the Bay Area. I am a second year Psychology B.A. and Urban Studies double major. My pasion for community work and advocacy fuels my aspirations of attending graduate school and becoming a social worker. By applying psychological principles and approaching every situation with empathy and care, I hope to uplift underserved communities! A few of my hobbies include hiking, crafting jewelry, and making my own press-on nails.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Project Coordinator
Spring - Project Coordinator
How did the intern program help you grow?
Becoming an intern instilled me with the confidence to pursue my major and career goals proactively. It allowed me to explore my interests, gain leadership skills in professional settings, and opened up many opportunities far beyond the internship.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
One of my favorite memories was our first intern social at Seaside! We were able to get to know each other on a deeper level, creating friendships and an ability to work extremely well together.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
Some highlights of the intern program include workshops to improve your leadership and communication skills, getting one-on-one advice and guidance from PSA board members, and hosting your own general meetings.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
Becoming an intern greatly expands the resources you have access to! As you learn more about PSA and psychology, you also become a representative of PSA yourself, where you can support members and implement your own ideas.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
Don't be afraid to reach out to board members or past interns (like myself!), and always speak up for your ideas. You're a very valuable member of the team and deserve to be here!
Kayla Nababan
Hai! My name is Kayla Nababan, and I was the 25-26 President of PSA! I'm currently preparing to apply to medical school right now, and in my free time I've been doing embroidery projects.
What intern positions did you have?
Winter - Webmaster
Spring - Webmaster
How did the intern program help you grow?
Before I was an intern, I wasn't involved in any extracurriculars or opportunities at UCI. I was a lost pre-med! Through the intern program, I gained skills needed to work in a team, speak to large groups, and prepare professional events.
What is your favorite memory from the program?
My favorite memory has to be just randomly hanging out with my intern team and the board outside of PSA events! We would support each other in our outside extracurriculars, spontaneously study together, and make fun memories.
What are some highlights of the intern program?
Main highlights include planning and leading our own general meetings, fundraising events, and after-socials. We would always contact each other and plan outside of PSA hours.
Why should people apply to be an intern?
It is an experience that allows you to gain a community while also being able to work on yourself professionally and academically. It never hurts to at least try to apply, and from my 4 years of being at PSA, I can confidently say that the internship program has made everyone grow one way or the other.
Do you have any advice for future interns?
It's important to learn how to work in a team, so please be respectful to your other interns!