Aina Fargas Herrera

Motivated and highly dedicated with a strong academic background in social sciences, business, and economics, complemented by hands-on experience in research, customer service, and leadership. Demonstrated ability to balance academic rigor with extracurricular commitments, including competitive sports, volunteer work, and business simulations. Passionate about exploring the intersection of business, mental health, and data science. Adept at problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborating in diverse team environments. Seeking opportunities to apply my skills and drive to further my education and contribute to impactful projects in business analytics.

1. Volunteer Tutor

• Provided academic support to disadvantaged students, fostering academic growth and confidence.

• Developed patience, communication, and leadership skills while mentoring students.

2. Basketball Player

• Competed as a dedicated team member and Captain, showcasing teamwork, discipline, and resilience.

• Balanced rigorous athletic commitments with academic performance.

3. Running

• Pursued personal fitness goals through regular training, demonstrating self-discipline and perseverance.

• Participated in local races, building physical and mental endurance.

4. JP Morgan Investment Banking Job Simulation

• Gained insights into financial analysis, teamwork, and problem-solving through a comprehensive virtual simulation.

• Collaborated on real-world investment banking case studies.

5. Hotel Resort La Costa

• Delivered exceptional customer service in a high-pressure hospitality environment.

• Strengthened multitasking and interpersonal skills while managing diverse clientele needs.

6. Volunteer at Lourdes Pilgrimage

• Assisted ill and elderly pilgrims during a week-long spiritual journey, emphasizing empathy, patience, and dedication.

• Worked collaboratively in a demanding environment, supporting individuals’ physical and emotional well-being.

7. Competitive College Club

• Engaged in rigorous academic preparation for university admissions, including peer discussions and application workshops.

• Showcased ambition, time management, and commitment to academic excellence.

8. Foreign Exchange Student

• Immersed in a new culture, improving adaptability, independence, and cross-cultural communication skills.

• Developed a global perspective through interactions with host families, peers, and local communities.

Unveiling Dopamine: The Trending Neurotransmitter

Hypothesized that unstable dopamine levels from excessive phone use negatively affect academic performance and focus, while a dopamine detox could enhance well-being and attentional efficiency.

       Theoretical Framework: Conducted an in-depth study of dopamine’s function in the brain’s reward system, linking it to behaviors such as attention, addiction, and motivation.

       Practical Framework: Collaborated with neuroscientist Dr.Saul Martínez Horta to design the practical framework.

• Dopamine Detox: A 15-day digital detox revealed improvements in mental well-being, including reduced anxiety, heightened focus, and improved mental clarity.

• D2 Test of Attention: A 24-hour abstinence period showed faster rates in the D2 Test of Attention: participants completed tasks faster without a decline in accuracy, suggesting enhanced processing speed

      Data Analysis: Utilized SPSS to perform correlation analysis and ANOVA, providing statistical insights into the interaction between dopamine, attention, and lifestyle factors.

      Implications: Reducing digital distractions can significantly improve mental well-being, even if direct academic performance impacts are harder to measure. The nuanced findings suggest that dopamine’s role in attention and performance cannot be isolated from broader lifestyle factors. Emphasized the importance of adopting balanced digital habits to achieve better emotional and cognitive health.

      Presentation: Delivered an oral presentation summarizing the findings, implications, and the necessity for broader studies.

• Basketball

• Running and Fitness

• Volunteering

• Creative Writing

• Exploring Art and Culture 

• Traveling and Experiencing New Cultures

• Personal Development (Reading about Psychology and Motivation)