Novall Khan of DeWitt, NY is only a sophomore at UR, but she has already made an impact on campus in many ways. Not only is she a research assistant in moral and developmental psychology, but she is also a Southside Resident Advisor, an employee at the Art/Music Library in Rush Rhees and a member of the UR Wind Symphony.
As a neuroscience major, Khan eventually wants to go to graduate school, but would also like to continue playing music.
What motivated you to be an RA?
I love being an RA, not because of the authority I have on the floor or the guaranteed single room, but because of my amazing staff team and the many residents I’ve met and gotten to know well through my job. If it weren’t for those dozens of lockouts and handing out trash bags during service desk hours, I wouldn’t have met half the people I know now!
Why did you decide to major in neuroscience?
I have always enjoyed being in a lab setting and I find it so intriguing to look at the world on a molecular level.
What kinds of things have you been researching pertaining to psychology?
I have been coding interviews that were already conducted and looking into other research in the field. The focus of this particular area of the field is on younger children, and eventually I will be able to conduct these interviews myself. I find it very rewarding, as well, knowing that I can actually apply my skills and knowledge to “real” research.
What is your dream job?
I have always wanted to be a teacher. When I was younger I would play “school” even after coming home from a long day at school! My two younger sisters would be my students along with my stuffed animals.
What’s the last good book you read?
I just finished reading “Lessons From the Light” by Kenneth Ring for REL 164. It was unlike anything I have ever read before. My favorite book of all time is “The Giver” by Lois Lowry.
Talk about your love of music.
I have been playing the flute for 10 years, and I hope I continue to play throughout my life. I find such joy in music, and there’s no other feeling than being able to play in an ensemble. When I’m playing my flute, I feel like there is nothing around me but the music.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Rochester?
Despite the below-zero temperatures in Rochester, I have to admit that I love it! Without our winters, we wouldn’t be able to sled down the Danforth hill on trays, hot chocolate wouldn’t taste as good, and certainly, there would be no skiing/snowboarding (unless, of course, you live in Dubai and have access to an indoor ski resort). I also like to visit Eastman. The free concerts (and the $5 discounted RPO concerts) are phenomenal.
Kraus is a member of the class of 2009.
