Yutong (Lareina) Cai

First-year psychology student at the University of Rochester with a focus on human development in social and cultural contexts. Experience includes independent research on adolescent emotional processes, teaching across multiple age groups, and cross-cultural education projects. Interested in understanding how learning, interaction, and environment shape development, and in applying psychological knowledge in real-world settings.

Independent Researcher — Psychology | Sep 2023 – Sep 2024

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Designed and conducted an independent study on the correlation between Somatization and Alexithymia in adolescents
• Collected and analyzed data from 100+ participants using surveys and structured interviews
• Applied basic statistical analysis to identify patterns in emotional awareness and physical symptom reporting
• Authored a 7,500-word research paper

Research Project — Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) | Sep 2024 – Feb 2025

Peking University Third Hospital

• Conducted genetic analysis using DNA extraction and PCR amplification techniques
• Designed primers targeting SMA-related genetic regions and analyzed mutation presence
• Interpreted results using autosomal recessive inheritance models
• Evaluated case-based data to identify affected individuals

Research Project — Art Therapy & Aromatherapy | Jun 2024 – Aug 2024

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Delivered 3 lectures on essential oils as complementary methods for stress reduction
• Conducted an in-depth literature review of 30+ academic sources on art therapy and aromatherapy
• Synthesized research findings to develop evidence-informed and accessible lecture content
• Explained practical applications, mechanisms, and limitations of aromatherapy in mental health contexts

Teaching Assistant (Early Childhood Education, Internship) | Jul 2025 – Aug 2025

Beijing New Oriental School – Qinghe Campus

• Supported instruction for 2 classes of 30+ preschool students (ages 3–6)
• Assisted with classroom setup, lesson preparation, and daily routines
• Communicated with 30+ families regarding student progress
• Monitored learning outcomes through assignments and behavioral observation
• Supported both in-person and live-streamed sessions

Independent Research Program Teaching Assistant | Sep 2024 – Jul 2025

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Evaluated weekly research assignments for 20+ students, providing written feedback on structure, argument clarity, and methodological rigor
• Led weekly discussion and feedback sessions to address common challenges and track student progress
• Assisted students in academic writing, including literature review synthesis, methodology design, and target population selection
• Explained research conventions and expectations, helping students develop clear research questions and study designs

Biology Teaching Assistant | Sep 2023 – Sep 2024

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

- Mentored 60+ junior students in biology coursework, including cell biology, genetics, and data interpretation

- Provided individualized guidance and answered assignment and lab-related questions

- Reviewed student work and offered targeted feedback on misconceptions, calculation errors, and exam problems

- Assisted instructor with grading, ensuring accuracy and consistency in evaluation standards

- Supported exam invigilation

Frisbee Teaching Assistant | Sep 2022- Sep 2025

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

- Participated in weekly Frisbee training sessions and competitive tournaments

- Assisted coach in planning training drills and introducing game strategies

- Mentored 20+ team members on rules, teamwork, and on-field tactics

- Provided individualized feedback during training and competitions

Graduation Ceremony Operations Director | May 2025 – Jul 2025

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Served as overall coordinator for a graduation ceremony with ~1,000 attendees, overseeing stage operations and event execution
• Designed ceremony structure and program sequence to ensure smooth transitions across segments
• Planned stage movements and participant flow to maintain timing, safety, and visual coherence
• Coordinated with performers, speakers, and staff teams to align roles, responsibilities, and rehearsal schedules

Dance Drama Project Lead | Sep 2022 – Sep 2025

The Affiliated High School of Peking University and Beijing Dance Academy (Graduate program)

• Organized and scheduled weekly rehearsals, coordinating dancer availability and logistics
• Led choreography design and guided dancers through structured practice and performance preparation
• Co-directed and performed in 3 original dance drama productions over three years
• Managed timelines and cross-team communication to ensure efficient rehearsal and production workflow
• Delivered full-scale performances to audiences of 1,000+ attendees annually

Dance Ensemble Member | Sep 2022 – Sep 2025

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Participated in weekly training over three years, developing technique in Chinese classical, contemporary, and themed choreography
• Collaborated with team members to prepare and rehearse monthly performances
• Performed in productions reaching 1,600+ audience members annually
• Developed technical precision and expressive movement through sustained practice

Run Crew Member— Theater Production | Nov 2025 – Dec 2025

University of Rochester

• Supported stage management during rehearsals and live performances
• Assisted stage manager with prop organization, tracking, and backstage coordination
• Helped set up and strike the theater before and after performances

International Volunteer Teaching Project (Nepal) | Jun 2024 – Jul 2024

The Affiliated High School of Peking University

• Taught 30+ Nepalese students about Chinese culture through interactive activities, including dance, calligraphy, and paper cutting
• Designed and facilitated hands-on lessons to promote engagement and active learning
• Conducted interviews with school leaders, teachers, and students to examine local education systems and classroom challenges

Hospital Music Volunteer (Piano) | Jul 2024 – Sep 2024

Peking University International Hospital

• Performed weekly piano sessions for patients, visitors, and staff
• Selected and adapted musical pieces to promote emotional relaxation and stress reduction
• Engaged a diverse audience, reaching 1,800+ listeners across performances

• Dalton Academic Award —Biology (Top 10/240)
• Dalton Academic Award — Global Studies (Top 10/240)
• Beijing Student Arts Festival Gold Award (Top 10%)
• UK Biology Olympiad — Bronze (Top 15%)
• Australian Science Olympiad — Credit (Top 35%)