Dr. Brenda Straka

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Brenda Straka is a social developmental psychologist focused on how individuals navigate exclusion and discrimination while constructing social identities with multiple group memberships. Her research primarily examines the experiences of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups, including multiracial individuals, Latine and Native American people, and first-generation students in contexts of exclusion and identity negotiation. Straka's work emphasizes identity-based exclusion and aims to promote inclusivity and representation within psychological research. She has contributed valuable insights into the developmental and cognitive foundations that underpin the understanding of group membership and identity, advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in the field of psychology.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.