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Finding her voice through science, leadership, and Serviam

Finding her voice through science, leadership, and Serviam

by Shannon Dufresne
 

At Ursuline, growth often begins with a moment of recognition, a sense that you are exactly where you are meant to be. For Jadelyn Saviñon '27, that moment came during her first campus visit.

"At Open House, I felt a spark that I didn't get from any other school," she said. "From that day forward, I knew Ursuline was the right place for me."

After arriving from Casimir Pulaski School in Yonkers in the fall of 2023, Jadelyn was ready to challenge herself academically and find her place within the Ursuline community. Over time, her interests led to Ursuline's Science Research program, where she studies psychology through hands-on, independent work with mentor Dr. Tara Maloney at the New York-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain.

"It's okay to be nervous. Just don’t let that stop you from trying something new."
- Jadelyn Saviñon '27

With guidance from science teacher Mrs. Stacy Unkenholz, Jadelyn's current project examines how anxiety presents in neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. She engages directly with current research methods used in the field.

"Studying anxiety has always interested me," she said. "Having the opportunity to explore it in this way has been incredible."

The process requires more than curiosity. Jadelyn analyzes data, organizes findings, and presents results with clarity, skills that align with college-level expectations. She also navigates challenges, learning to rethink her approach when results don't match her expectations.

"When something doesn't go as expected, it opens up new areas to explore," she said.

The experience has shaped how she approaches problem-solving and clarified her direction for life after graduation.

"I know now that I want to pursue psychology and work in the medical field," she said. "I hope to become a clinical psychologist and make a difference in people's lives."

Her interest in understanding others extends beyond the research itself. Through Black Essence, Breast Cancer Awareness Club, and Bring Change 2 Mind, Jadelyn takes an active role in supporting her school community. She also teaches English to Spanish-speaking children, an experience that reinforces her commitment to helping others grow.

"Seeing their faces light up when they understand something new makes my day," she said.

As an Ursuline Connections leader, Jadelyn brings that same perspective to mentoring younger students.

"My connection leaders were a safe space for me," she said. "I wanted to be that for someone else. As a freshman, I didn't have the confidence I do now. Today, I'm not afraid to speak up for myself or for others."

If she had to describe her Ursuline experience in one word, she would not hesitate.

"Empowering," she said.

That sense of empowerment has shaped her growth. "I’ve learned to think independently and adapt as needed," she said.

Through Ursuline's Science Research program, Jadelyn connects her academic interests to real-world work—an experience that has helped shape her path toward studying psychology in college and beyond.

Jadelyn's journey reflects how Ursuline's Science Research program helps students move from curiosity to clarity, developing the skills, confidence, and direction that shape what comes next. Looking ahead, she encourages younger students to take that same first step. 

"It's okay to be nervous," she said. "Just don’t let that stop you from trying something new."

  • 2027
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