I have been offered a summer research externship with the Colombia University Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (New York, NY) with Dr. Anne Marie Albano, a clinical and research expert in child and adolescent clinical psychology. Through this externship, I will gain expertise by working with adolescents and young adults with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). My clinical duties with Dr. Albano will include maintaining a caseload which consists of providing both group therapy and individual therapy with clients as well as working with an interdisciplinary team of professionals to best plan treatment. Through this work, I will be able to apply principles consistent with evidence-based intervention in clients from diverse backgrounds. Regarding research opportunities, Dr. Albano has afforded me the opportunity to assist on her various research projects and analyze data with the hope of submission of a product. These skills will be directly applicable to the programmatic nature of my research which currently focuses on the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with SAD. Specifically, my research focuses on examining the overlap between SAD and co-occurring pathology through the use of eye tracking. Further, the opportunities will aide in my personal and professional development which will be directly relevant to my research and clinical interests (e.g., treating diverse clients, maintaining a heavy client caseload, working with an interdisciplinary team to plan treatment, etc.). 

Regarding expenses, I will be responsible for paying for my own rent and commuting expenses while living in New York. Rent rates, per AirBnB range from $1500-4500 a month. Costs associated with a monthly subway pass are $121 per month ($363 for the total externship). Further, travel expenses from Blacksburg to New York will be about $100 (gas, mileage, food, etc.). As such, the funding from the VT BEST program would greatly aide in providing some relief from the financial demands.

Please see links:
http://web.mta.info/metrocard/mcgtreng.htm#30day
http://www.nyhabitat.com/new-york-price.html