The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Corps are chosen to serve as representatives to all constituents of CAS and to create, promote and execute opportunities for academic and professional growth. These students represent a variety of departments from across CAS and will represent the College at events through interaction among current students, future students, parents, donors and alumni.
Throughout the year, we will be introducing new students representing the College in the 2023-24 academic year through a question and answer format. For more about the CAS Corps, visit: cas.appstate.edu/students/cas-corps.
Rylee Souders
Year: Junior
Major: Psychology (Health Studies)
Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.
Which clubs or organizations are you a member of?
Assistant of a Research Lab
Executive Editor of IMPULSE: The Premier Undergraduate Neuroscience Journal
Full-Time Volunteer at the Appalachian State's Women's Center
Member of App State's Women in STEM Club
What research or coursework have you been most passionate about?
"Some of the research and coursework I have been most passionate about has been related to biological and health psychology, as well as work in the public health field."
Which location(s) do you hope to visit for an internship, a study abroad trip, a research experience, or just for fun?
"Not only would I love to visit either Italy or Germany, but studying abroad in either country would be an amazing opportunity."
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
"My favorite place on campus is the Women's Center in the Student Union. Whether I'm working a shift or doing homework, I am always welcomed with warm smiles and profound individuals I have the privilege working alongside with."
What is one of your favorite memories at Appalachian thus far?
"I can't choose just one favorite memory at Appalachian thus far, but I would have to say either the many study dates with my friends at Espresso News and the parkway drives to discovering new places."
What do you like about Boone and the surrounding community?
"I love how 'at home' I feel when I am in Boone. It's a small community that is surrounded by hidden treasures to explore."
What are your hobbies?
"My hobbies consist of reading, exploring, hanging with my cat, and finding new coffee shops."
What is your favorite book, podcast, artist, and/or television show?
"Some of my favorite artists are Djo, Tame Impala, and Kendrick Lamar."
Tell us about one faculty or staff member that has made an impact on your life and how.
"A faculty member that has made an impact on my life is Dr. Mark Zrull. In my freshman year at App, I was a member of the Residential Learning Community Brain Matters. Dr. Zrull became a quick mentor for me as he was the advisor for this community. Since then I have had the opportunity to work with him in his research, the Premier Undergraduate Journal of Neuroscience, and a student in his classes. This connection has greatly influenced my goals and what I want to pursue in my academic career."
What do you feel has been valuable in your education at Appalachian versus another institution?
"Compared to other institutions, Appalachian State allows students to work in a tight-knit atmosphere that feels familiar."
What do you hope to do after graduation?
"After graduation, I hope to further my education in graduate school and find myself working in a hospital-setting pursuing neuropsychology."
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About the Dr. Wiley F. Smith Department of Psychology
Appalachian State University’s Dr. Wiley F. Smith Department of Psychology serves more than 1,400 undergraduate majors seeking the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, as well as 90 graduate students across four graduate programs: experimental psychology (MA), industrial-organizational psychology and human resource management (MA), school psychology (MA/SSP) and clinical psychology (PsyD). Learn more at https://psych.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Andersen
October 13, 2023
BOONE, N.C.
CAS Corps member Rylee Souders is a junior psychology major from Charlotte. Photo by Lauren Andersen.
CAS Corps member Rylee Souders is a junior psychology major from Charlotte. Photo by Lauren Andersen.