Student Spotlight: Sooyun Cho

Sooyun Cho is a fourth-year doctoral candidate studying clinical psychology in the Florida State University Department of Psychology, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. Cho’s dissertation focuses on how executive function skills — working memory, inhibitory control, and the ability to adapt to changing situations — influence social development in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. These skills play a key role in regulating emotions, reading social cues and maintaining relationships, often areas of difficulty for individuals with ADHD.

Tell us about your background, where you’re from, and what brought you to FSU.

I’m originally from South Korea, but I moved frequently growing up and lived in places like London, New Jersey and Turkey. I earned my bachelor’s in biotechnology from Korea University in Seoul, in 2013, followed in 2016 by a master’s in biomedical and medical engineering from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Daejeon. In 2018, I completed a second master’s degree in clinical psychology at Seoul National University. After being licensed as a clinical psychologist in Korea, I came to FSU in 2022 to pursue a doctorate under Michael Kofler, Ph.D., a professor of psychology, a leading ADHD researcher, and director of the Children’s Learning Clinic. I’m inspired by his work and FSU’s strong research facilities, funding opportunities, and mentorship support, which made this the perfect place to continue my academic journey.

What motivated you to pursue psychology at the doctoral level?

During a three-year internship at a hospital in South Korea, I saw the limitations of existing research supporting ADHD assessments and treatments. Working with adult patients who received their first ADHD diagnosis in their 40s and 50s revealed the pain they experienced after years of being misunderstood. This led me to question how ADHD impacts long-term social functioning. While much research focuses on academic challenges in ADHD, I wanted to explore its social and psychological effects. Therefore, I was motivated to pursue a doctorate to advance research and help develop evidence-based tools for clinicians.

Can you break down your main areas of research?

I focus on how ADHD affects social functioning — processing emotions and building relationships — and self-perception throughout life. Many adults who didn’t realize they had ADHD spend years blaming themselves or feeling misunderstood, which can lead to exhibiting heightened self-criticism, misreading neutral social cues, and overcompensating in environments where support or accommodations would have been more appropriate. I’m interested in how these experiences shape personal identity and interactions. My goal is to develop better support systems that help individuals with ADHD build healthy relationships and lead more fulfilling lives.

What makes you passionate about your research topics?

I’m passionate about helping individuals feel understood and supported. Knowing that the early intervention can make a lasting difference is what drives my work. I want to help individuals grow up feeling confident in who they are and build strong relationships.

Tell me more about your role as a psychology intern at the Apalachee Center.

This summer, I completed a year-long internship at the Apalachee Center, the largest provider of community mental health care in North Florida’s Big Bend region. I worked with inpatient and outpatient clients, led therapy sessions, and conducted comprehensive assessments for ADHD, personality disorders, and other mental concerns. I also facilitated detox groups for individuals struggling with substance use disorders to help clients understand the causes of addiction and prevent relapse.

How has your time at FSU prepared you for professional success?

Coming to FSU was a big step for me, especially since I had previously lived in bigger cities, but my experience here has been overwhelmingly positive. I’ve felt genuinely welcomed and supported by the community on and off campus. I also became more confident in my ability to connect with people from all kinds of backgrounds. The Department of Psychology has provided a strong professional development environment that has prepared me well for the next stage of my career.

What should the public to know about the importance of your research?

My research is about improving quality of life for people with ADHD. Academic and professional success matter, but those achievements don’t always lead to happiness if someone struggles with relationships or feeling misunderstood. I study social functioning because the way we connect with others plays a major role in our emotional well-being. I want to help people feel more accepted, confident and supported in their daily lives.

What is your best memory from working or studying at FSU?

One of my most meaningful memories at FSU was a lab outing organized by a research faculty, Lauren Harper Ph.D., who had also gone through the FSU clinical psychology doctoral program. She made it her mission to create a sense of community within our lab and planned events that brought us together outside of academic work. Her efforts made me realize I was part of a team. It shifted the way I saw my place at FSU and reminded me how important connection is.

What exciting upcoming projects or goals are you working toward?

I’m beginning my dissertation under the guidance of my primary investigator, Dr. Kofler. My research will examine how executive function skills — working memory, inhibitory control and set-shifting — impact social development in individuals with ADHD. These skills are often challenging for individuals who struggle with impulsivity or distraction. I hope to contribute research that leads to long-term support strategies.

What advice do you have for current students, especially international students coming to FSU?

Tallahassee may not be the most cosmopolitan city, but it reflects what everyday life in the U.S. looks like. You’ll find kind, welcoming and open-minded people. When you bring a positive attitude, that energy often comes back to you. Be open to the experience, embrace cultural differences, and know that you’ll grow from this experience.