Crista Falk, ’23

Graduation Year: 2023
Program: 6-9: Computation and Cognition
Trajectory: Idaho -> Boston
Now: Ph.D candidate in Cognitive Science at Tufts Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

What are you doing now?
I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Cognitive Science at Tufts Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in Medford, Massachusetts where my research will focus on psychology and multisensory perception.

What advice would you give to yourself if you were a first-year entering MIT?
If I could my past self-advice as a first-year entering MIT, it would be to worry less about fitting the mold of what I think a “typical MIT student” should be. Instead follow your passions, know your value, and keep an open mind to the opportunities that come your way. Just have fun at college and explore!

What was your favorite FLI activity?
My favorite FLI activity was welcoming frosh to the MIT community as a FLIPOP counselor (specifically making s’mores around the campfire at Cape Cod).

How did FLI help you during your time as an MIT undergrad?
As my time in undergrad comes to a close, I can sit back and reflect upon how the past four years at MIT have shaped me. I truly believe that without the support of select faculty and the rapidly growing visibility of the FLI community on campus, I would not have survived. Connecting with other FLI students taught me that my background and life experiences were not a source of shame but instead my greatest strengths. At the same time, the financial support of MIT and the OFY taught me that I could ask for help when I needed it. Moreover, leadership opportunities within the FLI community enabled me to direct my passion for organizing towards uplifting my own community here at MIT.

What I do for fun outside of work/school?
Outside of work and school, I like to crochet, skateboard, maintain a healthy coffee addiction, and spend time with my friends around Boston.