Alumnus Christopher Dishop Reflects on Academic Journey and Career Success

Alumnus Christopher Dishop ‘16 (BA), who majored in behavioral neuroscience, recently shared his insights and experiences at USD. Dishop, who has since built a successful career, highlighted the unique opportunities and supportive environment at USD that contributed to his professional achievements. 

Dishop described his time at USD as incredibly positive, emphasizing the benefits of small class sizes and strong faculty support. "It was easy to connect with professors, ask questions, and feel truly engaged in my coursework," he said. This close-knit academic environment fostered a sense of belonging and accountability, making learning more collaborative and enjoyable.

One of the standout features of USD, according to Dishop, is the exceptional research opportunities available to undergraduates. "USD is the best of both worlds: you have faculty who are not only excellent researchers but also accessible mentors who are excited to bring students into their work," he explained. This hands-on experience in research provided a strong foundation for his career and is something he continues to appreciate.

After graduating from USD, Dishop pursued further education at Michigan State University, where he earned a master of arts degree in organizational psychology and a PhD in organizational psychology. Recently, Dishop secured an assistant professor position at Auburn University. This new role marks an exciting chapter in his career, allowing him to continue his research and mentor the next generation of psychologists.

Dishop offered valuable advice for current students and recent graduates, emphasizing the importance of gaining practical experience and building a professional network. "Take advantage of every opportunity to get involved in research, internships and volunteer work," he advised. He also stressed the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Dishop mentioned that he would have spent more time exploring different fields before committing to a specific path. He recommends that incoming students actively learn about various careers by reading, talking to professionals and interviewing people in different fields. "Your first-year coursework doesn’t really define your future, so don’t stress about rushing into a major right away," he suggested.

Dishop also shared his experience with doubts about his career trajectory. He found that understanding that most career decisions are flexible and can be adjusted over time helped alleviate his concerns. "Once I understood that, I stopped over analyzing every step and focused on moving forward, learning from experiences as I went," he explained.