
Hobbies and interests
Ice Hockey
Physical Therapy
Russian
Reading
Tutoring
Cinematography
Animals
Astrology
Mental Health
Reading
Education
Adult Fiction
Mystery
Spirituality
Psychology
Fantasy
I read books multiple times per week
Elli Shmunis
1x
Finalist
Elli Shmunis
1x
FinalistBio
From a young age, I found myself drawn to roles where I could support and uplift others, but I didn’t yet have a title to define my future. In high school, I spent my lunch period tutoring peers in math and English and realized how rewarding it was to help others learn and build confidence. I worked part-time as a physical therapy aide, discovering my interest in medicine and rehabilitation. I spent my weekends playing hockey and volunteering at the local ice rink. These experiences showed me how emotional support and human connection directly impact well-being, leading me to study Psychology.
I am currently pursuing double degrees in Psychology and Business Management, and I hope to pursue higher education in clinical psychology to become a licensed professional for youth. My goal is to improve access to early mental health support, especially for children from low-income and underserved communities who often struggle to receive the care they need.
Outside of academics, hockey has been one of the biggest parts of my life. Playing on my university’s women’s hockey team has taught me leadership, resilience, and teamwork. I also enjoy reading and spending time involved in research as a psychology research assistant, where I contribute to developmental psychology projects and learn more about how research can create meaningful change. Whether I am supporting patients at work, mentoring teammates, volunteering with young athletes, or contributing to research, I bring compassion, dedication, and empathy into everything I do.
Education
University of Maryland-College Park
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Psychology, General
GPA:
4
University of Maryland-College Park
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
GPA:
4
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
Career
Dream career field:
Mental Health Care
Dream career goals:
Clinical Psychologist
Social Media and Events Coordinator
UMD Women's Ice Hockey2025 – 20261 yearDirector of Fundraising
UMD Women's Ice Hockey2026 – Present7 monthsPhysical Therapy Rehab Aide - (assist patients with exercises, support clinical operations, and facilitate a supportive and positive environment for recovering patients)
Pivot Athletico Physical Therapy2024 – Present2 years
Sports
Ice Hockey
Varsity2010 – Present16 years
Awards
- USA Hockey National Camp Selectee 2021&2023
Research
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
UMD — Research Assistant2025 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
Montgomery Cheetahs — Hockey Mentor2023 – Present