Dr. Rachel Barr
Insight
What is your idea of happiness?
Being with my family and finding out more about how the human mind works.
Who or what was the greatest influence in your life that led to your career?
My two mentors Dr. Harlene Hayne and Dr. Rovee-Collier. They both encouraged my natural curiosity and provided support and structure during my graduate and post-graduate training. A good mentor is a wonderful thing.
What do you enjoy about teaching?
Sharing my enthusiasm for all the amazing work currently being conducted in psychology and in developmental science in particular.
Who is your favorite musician?
The band U2.
What historical figure would you most like to meet and why?
Jane Austen. She was an acute observer of human behavior.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
The amount of time it takes to circle the globe, it should be faster by now.
What is your favorite word?
Brilliant.
How do you have fun?
I spend time with my toddler and husband, they both make me laugh.
What is the best piece of advice you could give to your students?
Follow what inspires your intellectual curiosity and then pursue it passionately and relentlessly.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Be happy.
Feature Story
TV for Tots: Early Learning Project Measures the Impact
Dr. Rachel Barr's Georgetown Early Learning Project examines the role television and movies have on children under 2 years of age.
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