The Road to a PhD: How Pace University’s Undergraduate Psychology Program Launched Tinuade McClish ‘23’s Future

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Discovering a Passion for Psychology

Like many undergraduate students, Tinuade McClish ‘23 began her academic journey exploring different majors, but everything changed when she enrolled in a psychology of intimate relationships course on Pace University’s Pleasantville campus.

An engaging professor, the discussion-based format of the course, depth of inquiry, and real-world relevance of the material sparked something within her.

“That class made me change my major to psychology,” she said.

Research That Opens Doors

A second pivotal point for McClish came through Pace’s undergraduate research opportunities.

Under the mentorship of Associate Professor Courtney Gosnell, PhD, she participated in a research project examining the effects of political media in perceptions of cross-party political relationships, an especially timely topic.

It was through a combination of a mentored lab course and funded research through the Provost Office’s Undergraduate Research program that McClish gained hands-on experience in designing studies, analyzing data, and presenting findings.

“I learned so much about the research process, and that experience solidified that I wanted to pursue a PhD,” she said.

Mentorship That Makes the Difference

A culture of mentorship is a hallmark of the Psychology program, with faculty members deeply invested in student success—guiding research, offering career advice, and advocating for students as they take their next steps.

For McClish, support from faculty was especially transformative; her professors encouraged her ambitions, reviewed her personal statements, and reassured her that earning a PhD directly after her bachelor’s degree was within reach.

“I felt nothing but support from the Psychology department,” she said.

That encouragement gave her the confidence to apply broadly to doctoral programs—and ultimately enroll in the University of Connecticut’s Educational PhD program.

A Campus That Feels Like Home

When McClish first toured Pace University’s Pleasantville campus, she knew she had found the right place. Drawn to the beauty of the Hudson Valley and the welcoming, close-knit environment, she chose a campus that felt both academically inspiring and personal.

“I loved how campus-y it felt, but also that it wasn’t too big,” she recalled.

That sense of belonging would become a defining part of her experience—not just socially, but academically and professionally.

Building Community, Building Confidence

Beyond the classroom, as a Pace student, McClish immersed herself in campus life as a resident assistant, Writing Center tutor, Student Government member, and member of Psi Chi, the international psychology honor society. Each role strengthened her leadership skills and deepened her connection to the Pace community.

“I just felt like I had all these pillars of support wherever I went,” she reflected.

From Pace to a Purposeful Life

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Pace’s Psychology program, ranked in US News and World Report’s Best Colleges, provided McClish with more than learning theory.

Faculty mentorship, presentation experience, and research training prepared her not just to thrive in a demanding doctoral environment, but sparked interest in meaningful conversations on society, and a future career blending clinical practice and research with advocacy.

As McClish pursues her PhD, completing clinical placements in K–12 schools while conducting research and earning her master’s degree along the way, her goal is clear: to make education more accessible and support students’ social, emotional, and learning needs.

Passing on the Torch

When asked what her advice for current and prospective Pace undergraduate students may be, McClish encourages them to connect with faculty, explore research opportunities, and fully engage with the department’s offerings.

She said, “Don’t compromise on your goals. If you find a passion for something, don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done.”

For those considering a degree in Psychology, her journey offers a powerful example of what’s possible. At Pace, students don’t just earn a degree—they gain the skills, mentorship, and confidence to pursue their highest ambitions.