It was an absolute joy to welcome about 40 high school juniors—from Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart to MIT this week. I was genuinely surprised (and thrilled!) to hear they were interested in visiting while on their Junior Class trip. We took a walk through some of the most beautiful parts of campus, and even with the 90-degree heat, their energy and curiosity made it an unforgettable experience.
After a little while, they started to open up—not just about college, but about real things: what kind of people they hope to become, what they notice in others, how to find a career that feels right, and what's most important in the people and communities around them. I can certainly tell that they are from the City of Good Neighbors! 
Huge thanks to the incredible chaperones who walked beside them in the summer heat. Your care and dedication to these students was clear in every moment. And to the students: thank you for your questions, your laughter, and your openness. I can’t wait to see where your journeys take you.

I'm incredibly honored to be featured in the Spring 2025 edition of Learn Magazine. Special thanks to the marketing and communications staff at the University at Buffalo, especially Nicole Mehlman-Davidow, whose writing so beautifully captured the heart of our conversation. This article reflects the many parts of my journey: my enduring connection to the University at Buffalo and its caring community; the city of Buffalo, which shaped me and will forever be home; the game of golf and my admiration for the First Tee of Massachusetts and the PGA REACH Foundation of WNY; the work I’m privileged to do at MIT; and most meaningfully, the people who’ve come into my life along the way—friends, mentors, teammates—whose presence I deeply value.

I also want to encourage everyone to explore the other stories featured in the Spring 2025 edition of Learn Magazine. I was moved by the work being done across the Graduate School of Education, and I continue to be amazed by the passion, creativity, and impact of this extraordinary community.

Last week, I had the joy visiting Glasgow, Scotland to attend the 12th International Conference on Conceptions of Library and Information Science (CoLIS), a vibrant gathering that explores a wide spectrum of topics in the field of information science. Much like last year when I attended the Information Seeking in Context Conference (ISIC), I received requests from friends, family, and fellow doctoral students to share what the experience was like—especially through the lens of a doctoral student navigating an international academic conference. So, here's my attempt to capture it all.

When I attended ISIC last year in Aalborg, Denmark, it was my first international conference and my first in the field of information science. A lot has changed in just one year: I’ve completed my second year in the doctoral program, written the first draft of my prospectus, begun forming my committee, and spent countless hours navigating both the visible and hidden curriculums of higher education.

Traveling internationally for a conference always brings a touch of anxiety. Did I pack everything? Passport (triple-checked). Chargers? Enough clothes? Poster? Bank notified? Check, check, and check..ohhhh, but I am sure I'll forget something. But this year, I did something new: I built a mini-vacation around the conference. I almost never take real vacations, and this one reminded me why I should.

If you have not been to Scotland yet, you should know that it is a BEAUTIFUL country with many scenic views, tons of rain, and this time of year the sun rises around 4:30am and sets around 10pm. The Scottish accents took some getting used to, but after just a day, I was able to navigate quite well. Before the conference began, I spent two days in the Scottish Highlands. Shoutout to Alistair, who was knowledgeable, kind, and generous enough to add extra stops along the way. As a lifelong music lover, I was thrilled when he introduced us to some of his favorite Scottish artists. I fell head-over-heels for a Highland cattle (or “hairy coo”), learned about shinty and eating baked beans for breakfast, and visited historic castles. After two days of breathtaking landscapes and hearty (vegetarian) Scottish breakfasts, I took a train to Glasgow, where things were bustling. I asked the hotel staff why it was so busy: “Lionel Richie is in town,” they replied. Well alright, Lionel!

The first official day of the conference kicked off with a doctoral workshop. In preparation, we submitted an application, a two-page summary of our research (somehow condensing 30+ pages!), and a three-minute video overview. We also prepared a brief oral summary to present in our small groups. I was placed with three other students from around the world and two mentors whose work I’d long admired: Dr. Alison Hicks and Dr. Laura Saunders. There’s always a question in those moments—do you fangirl and say, “I’ve read and cited your work!” or play it cool? Admittedly, I'm not quite sure if I did either–I think I blacked out from the nerves. Either way, they asked thoughtful questions and offered encouraging, constructive feedback on my research trajectory. At the end of the day, I was surprised to learn I was one of three winners of the doctoral student video competition. I didn’t even know it was a competition. After spending the day learning from so many brilliant, creative doctoral students across the globe (Australia, Croatia, Japan, Sweden, the UK, and the USA) I was deeply honored. Their work stretched the boundaries of our field and left me feeling inspired and energized.

That evening, as an introvert who had already spent an entire day engaging with new people, I debated skipping dinner to recharge my social battery. But the organizers were generous enough to host a group meal, and I was so grateful for the opportunity. And I’m THRILLED that I attended. The fear of walking into a room and not knowing where to sit is real, but thankfully, I found familiar faces. I saw my friends from the University at Buffalo and met new friends. The other students at the table from Sweden and the UK welcomed me immediately. They made space—literally and figuratively—and invited me into their conversation without hesitation. We shared stories about our experiences, programs, and our research, and exchanged thoughts about the day’s sessions. We all asked questions. We listened and offered words of encouragement. There was no posturing—just curiosity, generosity, and warmth. That simple act of inclusion turned what could have been a lonely evening into one of the most meaningful moments of the conference. It set the tone for the rest of my time there and reminded me that in academic spaces—so often known for being isolating—it’s possible to find real connection.

The next three days were a rich mix of learning and socializing. The walk to the registration desk felt more like a family reunion than a conference as we skipped over to each other and offered big, big hugs. I attended a wide range of sessions: formal lectures, interactive workshops, even a short play (kind of). I met new people, but I also ran into old friends—something I hadn’t anticipated. I hadn’t realized that I was beginning to form a real community in the field (I hesitate to use the word "network," as it can often feel transactional). One friend, Jenna Hartel, was a keynote speaker (see my reflection on Jenna in my ISIC reflection from August 2024), and she did a wonderful job. Others were presenting their dissertations, starting new jobs, or receiving awards. I was enthusiastically greeted by Dr. Ian Ruthven who remembered me from previous conferences and even called me by a nickname. He said to a colleague, "Oh, I was just standing here talking to KB, and..." I missed the rest of that sentence. I got distracted while he was speaking because I couldn't believe that he remembered me. That small moment meant the world.

One of the highlights was spending time with fellow students and faculty from my own program. Ours is an online program with students from around the globe. Student balance full-time work, personal responsibilities, and doctoral studies at an R1 institution. We span generations, professions, and life stages. But the thing that binds us together is kindness. This community is one of the friendliest, most collaborative, and respectful I’ve ever encountered. Disagreements happen, but we always treat one another with care. It's a model I wish more academic spaces would follow. Oh, now is a good time to shout out a wonderful scholar and mentor, Dr. Heidi Julien, who will receive the 2025 ASIS&T Award of Merit (which I affectionately started calling her "Human Being of the Year Award"...she laughed and rolled her eyes) and to Jane Bartley and Hassan Mortada who have received New Leader Awards. They're all incredibly humble, so I am happy to amplify their work when they will not do so. They will receive their recognition at the 2025 ASIS&T Annual Meeting, and a big crowd of us will be there to cheer them on!

I also presented a poster, which gave me another opportunity to share my work and receive feedback. A scholar I admire, Dr. Rebecca Noone, came over immediately. She remembered me from ISIC and offered incredibly thoughtful insights into my research: "I am so excited to see how your work has progressed from last year to this year. You're making great choices." I hope she didn't see me holding back tiny tears. It was deeply affirming, and I'll carry her feedback with me as I continue shaping my proposal.

The conference ended at Òran Mór with a dinner and a ceilidh—a traditional Scottish social dance that left me smiling through tears, literally (see the video below). There we were: hand in hand with friends and strangers, laughing and stumbling through unfamiliar steps, swept up in the music and movement. It was clumsy (in the best possibly way) and joyful, and I'll never forget it. Despite following a mostly vegetarian diet, my friend did allow me to try a spoonful of haggis (yep, I can cross that right off my list!!). 

After the conference, I took a train ride to Edinburgh for a few days of sightseeing. I hiked Arthur’s Seat, ran in to Serena Williams (yes, THAT Serena Williams), wandered through free museums, tasted Irn-Bru and HP Sauce, and even made a trip to St. Andrews. Typically, after trips, I'm a little tired and ready to head back home, but this time, I didn’t want to leave. I felt so at home and was full—emotionally and intellectually.

This experience left me with so much to be grateful for:

• Real community – something I’ve longed for and something that’s often rare in academia.
• The warmth of the UB community - we shared meals, advice, and many laughs.
• Intellectual growth – my mind is buzzing with ideas and new perspectives.
• New experiences – I never imagined myself standing on a hill in Scotland, surrounded by this kind of joy.

Thank you to everyone who made this trip possible. Your support means everything. If you’re curious about attending conferences as a doctoral student or just want to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to share what I’ve learned.

Until next time.

I'm thrilled to share that the MIT Institutional Research team has won an Infinite Mile Award, an honor given to members of the MIT community who help further its mission. This is a team I've admired from afar for years, and since joining in January, I've seen their brilliance firsthand. They've welcomed me with open arms, and I'm so proud to be part of such a kind, collaborative, and talented group. Congratulations to all of my colleagues and to the other team and individual awardees this year!

For the past three years, I’ve had the joy of connecting with students from my alma mater, Le Moyne College, during their Manresa on the Road trip to Boston. And for the last two years, I’ve had the added pleasure of hosting them at my office at MIT. I look forward to this visit each spring as it is a time to pause, reflect, and be reminded of the kind of community that forms when curiosity and kindness come together.

This year, as the visit approached, I found myself feeling unusually tired. I had 2 cups of coffee today (if you really know me, you'll know this is a rarity). As I walked into the conference room with my friend Jonathan (class of 2011) and settled into the usual routine of introductions and questions, I wondered if I’d have the energy to be fully present. 
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Within moments, I was reminded of the deep joy these conversations bring. I reconnected with dear friends--RJ Rapoza, TJ Davis, and Katie Pershall —who greeted me with warm hugs and familiar laughter. The students, who varied in year, program, hometown, and interests, asked very thoughtful questions.

They asked about the PhD journey, about how I found my way into educational research, and one question that especially stuck with me: What are the biggest mistakes you've made? WOOOOFF!!! I am glad they asked.

Here’s what I shared:

• Mistaking self-sufficiency for strength. In college, I believed asking for help made me weak. Looking back, I see how many opportunities and relationships I likely missed by trying to carry everything alone.
• Equating pivots with failure. In college, I believed not following through on a predetermined path meant I had failed, and when I pivoted after I college, I was soooo embarrassed. But those who truly knew and cared about me weren’t fazed. RJ recently told me they were actually happy that I was doing what I felt was best for me. They trusted I’d find my footing, and they were right.
• Ignoring the voice of discernment within. Jesuits often speak of consolation and desolation. There have been moments I ignored my heart at those intersections—choosing the path of “I should probably do XYZ” over the path of “I feel called to do XYZ.” I’ve learned that discernment, even when messy, is important. What is more, I've learned that discernment in the midst of a community who cares, is also important.

One conversation stood out in particular—about passion and purpose. We’re often told to follow our passion, especially in career decisions. But what happens when the job changes or disappears? I’ve been reflecting on how easy it is to root our entire identity in our work. I’ve done it. I'll probably do it again in the future. Many of my friends have, too. But we must remind ourselves that we are not defined by what we do, but by who we are becoming and the ways in which we love and show up for others. 

When they asked me what the most fulfilling part of my job is, I mentioned the travel and the cool projects, but I also mentioned the people. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues who have become dear friends. People who challenge me, make me laugh—those deep, belly laughs—and expand the way I see the world. I cherish those relationships and always will, even after our work together ends.

Needless to say, the conversation was rich, restorative, and full of hope. If you happen to come across a Le Moyne Dolphin out in the world—maybe they’re job searching, maybe they’re just curious about your story—PLEASE give them a few minutes of your time. I promise you, you’ll walk away with more than you could have ever imagined.

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the AERA and NCME annual meetings. This was my third year attending, and it is truly my favorite week of the year, as my email signature proudly noted. Three years ago, when I attended my first AERA and NCME meetings, I knew absolutely no one personally, and I was starstruck attending sessions led by some of my heroes. I had no idea that I would have such an active role at meetings in the not so distant future. These gatherings bring together an incredible community of educational researchers who, in just a few short years, have become not only esteemed colleagues but also dear friends.

This year was particularly special. I had the honor of co-leading a graduate student workshop alongside fellow members of the Graduate Student Issues Committee (GSIC). Our session sparked rich, thoughtful conversations about positionality in research and the critical responsibility we have to engage deeply with the data we collect, analyze, and use to inform our work. It was a reminder of the power of critical reflection in strengthening our scholarship and practice.

I am also thrilled to share that I am now officially serving as Co-Chair of GSIC, alongside Claudia Ventura, a PhD student at the University of Connecticut, under the inspiring leadership of our new president, Amy Hendrickson, Executive Director of Psychometrics for the College Board. We are deeply grateful for the incredible foundation laid by immediate past co-chairs like Catherina Villafuerte and Nicolas Mireles. Also, a special shout out to previous GSIC leaders, Sergio Araneda, Janine Jackson, and Montserrat Medinaceli. You have built a community that is strong, welcoming, and intellectually vibrant. We stand on your shoulders, and while your shoes are big ones to fill, we are committed to honoring your legacy while bringing fresh energy and ideas to the committee. We know you will continue to guide us, just as we will support those who come after.

Looking ahead, I am genuinely excited about the work we will do within GSIC. We already have innovative initiatives underway, and I am confident that, together with the many talented graduate students in measurement, assessment, and education research more broadly, we will continue to build an exceptional community. I warmly invite advice, ideas, and collaboration from all. Our strength lies in the collective wisdom and passion of our members.

Reflecting on this past week, I am reminded again of how fortunate I am to have found a professional home in educational research. When I began my doctoral journey, I was warned that academia could be cold and isolating. And maybe academia is still cold; however, my experience has been the opposite. While we certainly engage in rigorous scholarly debates about measurement, the state of educational research, the role of standardized testing and much more, I have found a community grounded in generosity, mentorship, and genuine care. Seriously, it is amazing to walk into a room at an academic conference and receive so many hugs and kind remarks. I leave these meetings with new research methods to explore, invaluable advice, and friendships that I know will last a lifetime. This is a valuable reminder that no matter how brilliant, accomplished, and well-known you may be, there is always room for kindness. Always! 

This introvert's social battery is drained after several concurrent sessions, 5 receptions, and new connections! My red-eye flight home left me very tired, but I am more energized than ever (kind of, I still need a few more days of rest!!!). The future of educational research is bright, and I am grateful to be a part of shaping it.

This year, I had the pleasure of serving on the National Council on Measurement in Education's (NCME) Graduate Student Issues Committee, where I met so many inspiring individuals, learned from measurement experts, supported students on their graduate journeys, and helped foster a sense of community. 

Looking ahead, I'm excited to share that I will be stepping into the role of co-chair for this committee alongside Claudia Ventura, next year. It’s a privilege to continue this important work in the evolving landscape of educational measurement.
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I will officially be sworn in at the annual meeting's Presidential Reception, and I look forward to what’s ahead!

On April 8 and 10, Dr. Damian Bebell and I had the opportunity to connect with school leaders across Illinois to explore how technology is shaping teaching and learning in today's classrooms. Together, we examined the historical evolution of educational technology, reflected on the purpose of schooling through the lens of mission statements, and discussed practical strategies for assessing technology’s impact using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
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To learn more about Dr. Bebell's work on mission statements and their role in guiding educational practice, visit https://www.purposeofschool.org/

I'm pleased to share that I will be facilitating a workshop with fellow NCME Graduate Student Issue Committee members at this year's NCME Annual Meeting. The details are below:

Student Workshop – Positionality in Action
📅 Wednesday, April 23
🕐 1:00 – 3:00 PM MDT
💲 $15
📍 Hosted by NCME Graduate Student Issues Committee
✍️ Facilitators: Catherina Villafuerte, Nicolas Mireles, Kayla Burt, Alexis Oakley, Autumn Wild, Brein Mosely, MS, Claudia Ventura, & Sarah Hammami, M.A.

Why Attend?
✅ Identify the benefits of assessing positionality
✅ Deepen your understanding of your own positionality
✅ Explore tools to account for bias across research contexts

📢 Open to all students — AERA Graduate Students are welcome to attend!
💻 Space is limited — register soon!
If you have any questions about registering, feel free to reach out to me directly.

As of mid-January, I’m excited to share that I’ve begun a new role in the Institutional Research Office at MIT. My work focuses on exploring the concept of belonging in higher education—what it means, how it is experienced, and the factors that shape it. At a time when many grapple with loneliness and isolation, this research feels more urgent than ever. I’m eager to engage with colleagues at MIT and across the broader academic community to deepen our collective understanding of belonging and its implications.