Esme Reed

Esme Reed has always been fascinated by the human mind and its complexities. In the summer of 2023, she found herself at the heart of New York City, where she joined the Department of Psychology at Columbia University to delve into her passion for psychology. Esme's journey took a new turn when she became involved with the Urban Minds Initiative, a project that explores how urban environments shape mental health and well-being.

At Columbia, Esme worked alongside leading experts in various fields such as clinical psychology, neuropsychology, environmental design, and public policy. Together, they embarked on groundbreaking research that aimed to understand the effects of city living on cognitive function, stress levels, and social interactions. The team was particularly interested in how green spaces and community engagement could mitigate the pressures of urban life.

One of the highlights of Esme's time in New York was when she co-led a study on the impact of mindfulness practices in schools. Alongside a group of dedicated educators and psychologists, Esme helped implement mindfulness programs in several local elementary schools. The initiative not only improved students' attention and emotional regulation but also fostered a more positive school environment.

Esme's work didn't stop there. She also contributed to a series of workshops and seminars that brought together city planners, healthcare professionals, and residents to discuss innovative solutions for healthier urban communities. By fostering dialogue between different stakeholders, Esme and her colleagues were able to create actionable strategies that could be implemented across the city.

Through her efforts, Esme has made significant contributions to the field of psychology, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the importance of addressing real-world issues through research. For those interested in learning more about the projects Esme has been part of, or to explore opportunities for collaboration, the Department of Psychology at Columbia University invites you to visit their research page.