Sofia Montoya
GU IMSD Fellow
2024 Cohort
Take some time to reflect. I was asked a lot why I wanted to pursue a doctoral program and at times I even questioned it myself. … It’s all about telling your story.
The Georgetown University Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (GU IMSD) is designed to develop a diverse cadre of doctoral scholars prepared for careers in the biomedical scientific workforce. Our incoming GU IMSD Fellows share their interests, career goals, and advice for aspiring Ph.D. students.
About Sofia
Originally from San José, Costa Rica, Sofia Montoya is studying in the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience at Georgetown. She previously earned her B.S. in Biopsychology, with a Studio Art minor, from Tufts University.
How did you become interested in your area of study?
I’m interested in perceptual processing, especially how sensory loss can change how information is processed or how neural connections are organized. Science’s impact on improving lives motivates me and propels my aspiration to contribute to neuroscience research.
What are you most excited about as you join the GU IMSD program?
I’m thrilled to be a part of the GU IMSD program as I think it will help me grow not only as a scientist but also as a professional. Through the transferable skills curriculum, I’m excited to learn more about project management, science communication and leadership. I also look forward to connecting with peers in different fields and form a strong supportive cohort.
How have your previous experiences or background influenced your personal or professional development, interests, or career goals?
Back home in Costa Rica, I attended an international high school where I was surrounded by people of different cultures and backgrounds. This has made me very open-minded as a person and this open-mindedness has extended into my scientific practice. I like to learn about various approaches and think about questions from different perspectives.
What advice do you have for applicants who want to pursue doctoral programs?
Take some time to reflect. I was asked a lot why I wanted to pursue a doctoral program and at times I even questioned it myself. It helps to sit back and think about where you’ve come from and generally where you want to go. It’s all about telling your story.
What are your career or research goals after completing your doctoral studies?
Ultimately, I would like to pursue a career in perception research, specializing in plasticity, to support the development of aid and rehabilitation programs for individuals with sensory impairments.