Photo by: Sarah Sutin
Few students have worked at three different research labs and presented two independent studies at psychology conferences.
Senior Sara Snyder, who is pursuing a double major in psychology and sociology, has done so – and more.
Hailing from small-town Monument, Colo., Snyder’s extensive research in nonverbal displays and emotional regulation has deepened her interests in learning how to help those suffering from trauma and the effects of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking is essentially modern-day slavery and unbelievably prevalent.The greater majority of people are naïve as to how common it actually is and as to the widespread repercussions of human trafficking in society,” said Snyder.
Snyder explained how “fair trade” items ensure that every party involved in production and distribution is paid a fair price for their labor.
These items tend to be much more expensive than store-brand products – evidence that somewhere along the line someone was exploited, most likely a victim of human trafficking.
“The most interesting thing about these human trafficking victims is that after a certain amount of time, these individuals simply do not see themselves as victims, but rather as filling a sort of unpaid job. This makes it very difficult to treat their symptoms of trauma, something which I am very interested in studying,” said Snyder.
Snyder’s devotion to helping and communicating with others shines through in all that she does.
She has been involved in HealthY Peer Empowerment (HYPE) since her first year at DU, starting as a coordinator and moving up to facilitator.
HYPE works in partnership with the Health and Counseling Center at DU to promote healthy lifestyles through peer-based support.
“HYPE is an incredible student-run organization,” said Snyder. “If there is a widespread problem across campus that someone thinks we should address, then we come up with a viable solution. We don’t try to say ‘don’t do this,’ but rather, ‘this is how you can keep yourself and others safe’.”
Snyder firmly believes self-empowerment is key to a healthy body and mind. Positive reinforcement from peers is extremely effective in helping others empower themselves.
Snyder will graduate in June and has already applied to nine clinical psychology Ph.D programs, including those at University of Oregon and University of Missouri at St. Louis, seeking to specialize in trauma.
“Realistically, I will receive my doctorate and work as a clinician, researcher and part-time professor. I would love to study the effects of sexual trauma and abuse, especially how victims mentally feel as if they cannot escape,” said Snyder.
Snyder has lots of ambitions for the future, but one true dream for her career.
“I would love to work with the CIA, traveling and rescuing victims of human trafficking. If I could rescue even one or two people, then it would be a dream come true
