Connor Refaey

Motivated psychology and criminology student, dedicated to examining the intersections of trauma, social systems, and policy reform within the justice system. Passionate about leveraging psychological research and trauma-informed methodologies to advocate for criminal justice reform, enhance community resilience, and foster ethical policy development. Committed to contributing insights that drive meaningful change, and promote a more equitable justice landscape.

Psychology of Trauma and Disaster 

• Presented an analysis of resilience frameworks at individual, community, and systemic levels following trauma exposure as part of the course’s final project.

Three Coast Guard Good Conduct Medals

• For three consecutive years of exemplary service.
• I received my first good conduct medal after two and a half years of service, following two more before separating from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation

• For outstanding work as a unit.

Hagar’s House 

Service-Learning Volunteer, 09/01/25, Present 

• Devote approximately 3 hours weekly to helping residents with childcare, cleaning, and organizing shared spaces.
• Took initiative to replace stolen bicycles for residents by finding and buying affordable options using personal funds.
• Engage with children through trauma-informed care practices and empathetic communication.

Philosopher Kids

Reading facilitator, 10/01/24, Present

• Facilitate after-school reading and discussion sessions for elementary students (grades 1-5).
• Encourage moral reasoning and critical thinking through guided discussion and open-ended questioning.

Student Representative

Department of Psychology, Loyola University, 01/01/24, Present

• Serve as liaison between students and faculty to enhance communication and engagement.
• Attend monthly departmental meetings and collaborate on student support and program initiatives.

Research Methods in Criminology

Student Researcher 

• Designed an independent research proposal examining how grassroots movements influence criminological policy and public perception.
• Developed survey methodology targeting college populations to assess advocacy participation and attitudes toward reform movements (e.g., Black Lives Matter, Victims’ Rights Act).

Behavioral Neuroscience

Laboratory Student

• Learned and applied neuroanatomic dissection techniques through a full sheep brain dissection and labeling project.
• Developed an understanding of neural systems and their relationship to behavior and cognitive processes.