Diego Ordonez Rojas

When are you graduating?

Spring 2024

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone:

Titled "Student–Teacher Relationships from Kindergarten to 3rd Grade for Latine Students in Dual Language Programs," my thesis is the first study to explore the nature of student-teacher relationships in the context of Two-Way Immersion programs. This study investigated if ethnicity and other factors interact with the quality of student-teacher relationships in contexts where students have one or two teachers.

How did you choose your specific area of study?

I started my major in Sociology but decided to add Psychology as a second major since I rediscovered my interest in introspective mental processes. I found that Psychology better represented what I wanted to do in life: study children's development. After that, I found that the best way to study child development is with a concentration in Applied Developmental Psychology.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

I received huge support from my advisor, Dr. Adam Winsler, while developing my thesis and working on writing assignments and research papers. My time at Mason positively impacted my writing, professionalism, academic output, and habits.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

I am most proud of the outcome and productivity of my time at Mason. I was part of four research papers on dual-language education, and six conference presentations in and outside the United States. 

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

Dr. Adam Winsler, who has supported me in every aspect of my thesis from conception, through development, and presentation.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

Learn from everyone and everything. Advisors and peers can all provide equally important feedback and learning opportunities.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

I am pursuing a PhD in Developmental Psychology at UCSC. I intend to eventually apply my research on child development in multiethnic, historically disadvantaged, communities.