Graduating Student Spotlight: Yanyu Pan

Yanyu Pan is originally from Xi'an, China, and she is receiving her Ph.D. in Learning and Cognition within the Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Systems.

Why did you choose your program?

I entered the Educational Psychology & Learning Systems program because I wanted to deepen my
understanding of how students learn. My master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction gave me a strong
foundation in teaching, but I found myself wanting to better understand the learner—especially their
motivation, emotions, and self-regulation. I was curious why, in the same classroom and with the same
instruction, some students thrive while others struggle. I chose this program because it offered the
research tools and theoretical perspectives needed to investigate these questions and ultimately find
ways to support learners more effectively.

What has been your favorite part of the program?

My favorite part has been how much the program has shaped the way I understand learners. It pushed me
to think deeply about the cognitive, motivational, and developmental processes that influence why
students learn the way they do, and how educational psychology can help us design environments that
truly support them. I also loved the close mentoring and conversations with faculty. They encouraged me
to explore questions I genuinely cared about and helped me grow into a more confident, evidence-based
researcher and instructor. The individualized training and supportive community made the experience
especially meaningful.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

I am currently working as a Teaching Faculty and Assistant Director at the Academic Center for
Excellence, and after graduation, I hope to continue advancing student learning and success in higher
education. I want to use research to improve how we design learning experiences and how we support
students at different levels, especially those navigating academic challenges. My goal is to combine
research, teaching, and program development in ways that positively impact students’ learning journeys
and help create more supportive and effective educational environments.

What are some professional, academic, or personal highlights from your time at FSU?

My doctoral journey has been both challenging and incredibly meaningful, and I am grateful for the strong
support system within the program. The faculty and colleagues have truly felt like a family; they have
offered academic guidance, encouragement, and personal support every step of the way. I have grown not
only as a researcher and educator, but also in many aspects of my life.

I have also been given a wide range of opportunities to develop professionally. During my Ph.D., I completed
the College Teaching Certificate, the Statistics and Measurement Certificate, and the Program Evaluation
Certification, all of which broadened my skills and shaped my approach to research and teaching. I was
also able to teach undergraduate courses, which was one of the most rewarding parts of my experience
and helped me translate educational psychology into real classroom practice.

On a personal note, I got married and welcomed two daughters during my time in the program. Balancing
family life with doctoral work was challenging, but I received tremendous support from my mentors and
peers, making this accomplishment especially meaningful.