Meet TTS Scholar Michelle Johnson, Class of 2025-26
This month we are spotlighting Michelle Johnson, one of our amazing 2025-2026 scholars. Michelle is originally from Sweden and is pursuing a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. We checked in with her to hear about how her studies are going. Here’s what she had to say.
How are your studies going? What has been most exciting and what are you looking forward to?
My time at Cornell has been truly transformative. Being surrounded by inspiring peers, mentors, and abundant resources has constantly motivated me to learn and grow. Every class, seminar, and meeting I’ve participated in has challenged me in meaningful ways, strengthening my critical thinking, sharpening my analytical skills, and deepening my passion for intellectual growth. I’ve also felt very supported in my research while working on my thesis, which examines how early childhood adversity impacts depression trajectories and adult concentration difficulties. I’m really excited to contribute to the field of psychological science and look forward to publishing my findings later this year.
What do you hope to do after your studies?
After completing my Master’s degree, I hope to return to the research field to continue growing within academic and professional research settings. My goal is to use the skills I’ve developed to contribute in new labs, refine my research questions, and prepare for pursuing a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. Ultimately, I hope to apply my research in clinical and patient-centered settings, with the aim of making a meaningful, positive impact on our community.
Tell us more about your experience as a Thanks To Scandinavia scholar. How has it impacted you?
Being a Thanks To Scandinavia scholar has been an incredibly meaningful experience, and it’s hard to put into words the positive impact it has had on me. While I felt excited and grateful from the moment I received the news, the full significance of the opportunity truly sank in during our scholar meeting in the fall of 2025.
That year’s scholars were invited to New York City to meet one another, connect with members of the Thanks To Scandinavia board, and learn more about the program’s history. I vividly remember sitting around the large table at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, listening to each scholar share where they study and what they do. I was both deeply impressed and emotionally moved – it was incredible to be in a room with so many accomplished and inspiring individuals and to feel valued as part of this community. In addition, through TTS I gained a close friend, Karla, who is also a scholar at Cornell this year.
What do you enjoy outside of your studies?
When I’m not buried in a book or glued to my computer writing my thesis, I love being outdoors- sometimes on my own, sometimes with friends. Any activity that gets me moving instantly boosts my mood and well-being. Lately, I’ve been especially into running and am training for my very first half marathon!