APUG Club

The Applied Psychology Undergraduate (APUG) Club is a student-run organization committed to providing opportunities for students to explore the discipline of psychology outside of the classroom.  Through service, social, and educational activities, members of APUG Club can enhance their understanding and appreciation of psychology, and the thinking that informs their professional field.

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APUG Student Spotlight

Val Perez

First-Year, Applied Psychology 

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I'd probably have Dianne Guerrero play me, just because she is a really good Latina actress, and I've always admired her looks and works.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was on my way home after my first day of finals. My mom and brother wanted to get hot chocolate because it was cold outside, and I was super nervous. All of a sudden, I got the email that my decision was ready, so we rushed to my house, and we freaked out in my mom's car.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I'm excited to learn more about psychology and meet new people in a new city.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Val standing in a field.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Erin Kim

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Stephanie Hsu. She played Joy in Everything Everywhere All at Once, and she genuinely portrays the Asian American struggle of polarizing cultures so well. She was a queer young woman with a lack of communication with her parents due to cultural and language barriers. It was magnificent, and her role embodied me perfectly.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was just in my room for a month as the first wave of Covid-19 had hit. Frankly, I just remember feeling relief amongst all the chaos in the world at the time. Excited, scared, and confused.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I’m so excited to meet my peers the most! Having a sort of connection with others is very precious to me, and I hope I can talk and find a community within APUG! I just transferred from Liberal Studies, so it’ll be much more engaging to be in a more concentrated field.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Erin smiling in front of camera.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Rithikaa Rajendran

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would say Jessica Chastain who portrays Murph in Interstellar. I love her passion and resilience to prove what was seen to be the impossible.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was on break during work and went to check my emails when I saw that there had been an update on my portal. I was scared but also excited to see my decision, something that felt like it took years to arrive. Needless to say I told everyone at work when I got in!”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I'm super excited to be part of such an exciting community where I can grow and learn more about myself! At APUG I hope to explore my interests and possibly branch outside of my comfort zone and explore new connections. Super excited to finally call my dream school, my home for the next 4 years!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Rithikaa sitting in front of a window smiling.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Kamsie Obilo

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Marsai Martin or Sanaa Lathan - amazing personalities!”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was at a stop light while driving my way home...don't be me!”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“Honestly, the community and the experiences that I'll garner!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Kamsie sitting in a car.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Sarah Li

First-Year, Applied Psychology

What movie most represents your life?

“Chungking Express.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I just woke up and was still in bed. I was so excited that my hands were shaking!”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“City life & studying a major l like.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Sarah smiling at the camera.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Catherine Palacios

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Definitely Uzo Aduba since she's an amazing actress and a really inspiring person.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was getting some work done on my computer when suddenly, I got an email notification from NYU admissions. My heart started beating incredibly fast since I got really anxious and nervous. I didn't know what to expect. Then, I saw that I got in! I just couldn't believe it because I literally dreamt about this and it seemed like an unattainable goal for many years. Now, I feel grateful and excited about starting this journey.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I'm excited for exploring my interests and discover new ones. Also, for everything that I'll be learning and meeting and connecting with amazing people!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Catherine smiling at the camera.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Laura Penalosa

First-Year, Applied Psychology 

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would have Eva Noblezada play me in the movie of my life. I loved her in both Miss Saigon and Hadestown. She gives her all when playing characters in such musicals, excelling especially in the crying scenes (which is essential for a movie about the dramatic water sign that is Laura Penalosa). Additionally, Eva is a fellow Filipina! A must for a movie of my life would be for my culture to be represented correctly, starting with a Filipino American lead!”.

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was shopping for strawberries at Vons when I realized I forgot my card in my car. I had the feeling to check my email when I got inside my car. Immediately, I started crying and screaming whilst texting anyone I knew that I had gotten in. My heart was racing so fast from excitement that I had to sit in the parking lot for an hour to calm myself. To celebrate, I blasted Maggie Rogers on the drive home.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I’m super excited to meet people from all over the world. Though I come from a pretty diverse city (Shoutout Las Vegas!!), nothing compares to the diverse pool of students at NYU. Also, I’m excited to learn psychology from the best of the best!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Laura seated and smiling at the camera.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Yang Zhuo

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“The movie of Mitty represents me, because I am constantly pursuing and exploring something.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was preparing for my math test. I felt so amazed and proud of myself.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“All the meaningful projects APUG has offered for the public such as Midnight Run.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Headshot of Yang.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Tianze Liu

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would play myself because it would feel the most meaningful since it is my own story.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I just finished dinner and went back into my room, when I opened the email I was extremely surprised and excited.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“To meet all the peers, mentors and fellow classmates and participate in all kinds of activities with them.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Tianze facing the camera.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Brooke Charpio

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would play myself because no one can act like me better than I can.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was driving home from graduation rehearsal and was extremely excited!”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“To learn more about myself and others.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Brooke posing in front of a mirror. ]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Mary Carolonza

Transfer Student, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would love to have Emma Watson play me because I admire how intelligent and courageous she was as Hermione and those are things I aspire to be!”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was replying to text messages when I got the email notification. I was feeling in awe and so grateful for my acceptance. :)”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I am most excited for the research opportunities in APUG and to make new friends at NYU!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Selfie of Mary.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Abigail Woods

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Danny Devito - the height.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was getting ready for prom, and I was so happy I cried”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“Learning so many new things!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Abigail seated and smiling in a restaurant.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Sophie Lehmann

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Chelsea Peretti. No need to explain”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was driving home from school. I nearly crashed because I was crying in excitement and couldn’t see the road.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“Meeting new people!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Sophie holding a NYU Banner.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Angie Liu

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I think anyone could be me as long as they are a bit awkward yet talkative.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was confused! I was committed to a different school and got off NYU waitlist. It definitely took a while to process. Honestly, I applied without expectations so I'm glad I got this opportunity. Of course, there is fear as well. But a little bit of fear is healthy sometimes.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I'm excited to start a new chapter in my life. I hope to meet new people and enjoy a new lifestyle. Self improvement as well. I want to learn what separates APUG from other parts of NYU.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Angie posing with a flower.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Ana Ardelean

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“Eliza, one of my closest friends would play my role. I grew up acting as her alarm clock; tip toeing on a bench outside of her room, trying to reach her window high enough to rattle a waking knock every summer morning. Building uncoordinated tree houses (which you can see on google maps to this day) with our other childhood friends, we developed an indescribable love for our summers in Prajesti, Romania. After growing up together I couldn’t think of a better candidate.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“After the countless times I had refreshed my application status, I had the page engraved in my memory. I was at school with my friends when I noticed something on the page was off, “guys, the button is gone.” I don't remember what button, I just remember it wasn’t there anymore. An hour later, I was at home on FaceTime with my mom, hanging by my dad's arm, theorizing about the “missing button”. I refreshed the page for the last time, only to be hit with a link to a decision. That was it, I had received my acceptance to NYU! I was, I am so thankful. I couldn’t be more appreciative and excited for such an opportunity.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“I am most excited to be included in a diverse community of professors, classmates, mentors and peers, learning as much as I can from each of them.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Ana holding grapes in a vineyard.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Lavinia Loria

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“The one who is always in the gym and eating with her friends.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“Sat in the kitchen, feeling super nervous and terrified.”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“Meeting the new amazing people who are all so different and inspiring.”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Lavinia outside in front of a boat harbor.]

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APUG Student Spotlight

Dayana Orr

First-Year, Applied Psychology

In the award-winning movie of your life, who would play you and why?

“I would definitely play myself! Although I share similar characteristics with various actresses, I think that only I could truly convey the events and emotions I have experienced throughout my life.”

What were you doing when you found out you got into NYU? What were you feeling?

“I was laying in bed taking a break from refreshing my e-mail all day! As soon as my friend texted me saying their decision was released, I grabbed my laptop (which actually was on about 6% battery because of how often I checked my e-mail during the day), and soon found out that I was accepted. Because of the fact that NYU has been my dream school for years, I actually burst into tears out of excitement and relief (which literally never happens!), and committed immediately!”

What are you most excited for about APUG & NYU?

“Becoming a part of a fun and tight-knit community as a part of APUG excites me the most! I seriously can't wait to meet new friends and have people to just hang out with outside of classes!”

We are so excited to welcome you to the APUG Community! To be featured in a Student Spotlight, complete your profile here.

Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to sharing your stories!

Editor’s Note: Posts have been modified for clarity.

[Image Description: Dayana outside wearing her high school graduation regalia holding a decorated cap that reads, “Barbi stay in school” with an image of Nicki Minaj.]