By: Jared Atchinson
How did you decide upon a career in research?
Dr. Jones attended a summer undergraduate research internship in Chicago that taught undergraduate students the fundamentals of traditional psychological research. This experience was very impactful on Dr. Jones, showing him how research can contribute to his educational aspirations.
Tell us about your first experience of being mentored? What is one of the most important qualities in the mentors that you’ve had?
One of the most important qualities that Dr. Jones can recall from one of his previous mentors was patience and likeliness. Dr. Jones says that as a student, one has a lot to learn, and all of that information will not come over night. Therefore, having a mentor that can aptly identify your weakness, and help you build on them over a period of time is very important.
Which professional conference do you try never to miss?
The CCPD onference one conference in particular that Dr. Jones trys to attend every year because it has a very good mix of pre-clinical and clinical research and is an excellent networking opportunity.
What does work/life balance mean to you? OR What is your favorite recreation/pastime when you are away from the office.
Dr. Jones says that balancing work and your own personal life together is very important to him. He explained that pursuing a career in research gives him the ability to set his own hours, work independently, and in an overall sense, be his own boss. Having that control over his schedule allows him to spend time with family and travel, which is one of his favorite things to do.
If you hadn’t become a psychiatrist/psychologist, what might have you done instead?
If not a psychologist, Dr. Jones would have most definitely pursued a career in the clinical filed that involves some sort of science.