Matt Evans

Name:  Matt Evans

College:  Graduate

Department: Psychology

What Award/ Scholarship did you receive?  Professor Bruce Bridgeman, Ph.D. and Diane Bridgeman, Ph.D. Graduate Award in Cognitive Psychology

What year do you expect to graduate? 2025

Where do you call home?  Santa Cruz, California.

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out?  I attended here for undergraduate, and beyond the beauty of the campus, I have always been attracted to the collaborative spirit of the students here. I never felt as though I was in competition with my labmates - we always worked to make each other better.

What is your field of focus?  Music Perception and Cognition

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz?  I hope to continue my research in musical imagery! Preferably as a professor at a research university, so that I can also teach and mentor others.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here?  The first time I got to go to the beach with some new friends! I had that feeling of being part of a community, and like I was building a home here.

What is your one piece of advice for incoming students about life at UC Santa Cruz?  There are so many people here who’s full time job is to help you succeed - don’t be afraid to go talk to them! Advisors, professors,  As...everyone wants you to do well. 

How will this scholarship impact your academic life /research?  The computer that I have currently won’t run the software package that I will need to use for my research moving forward. This scholarship will allow me to purchase the equipment that I need (without impacting my ability to buy food and pay rent!)