Bessie Kong

Research Assistant

Biography

I am a rising senior at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, double majoring in Psychology and Sociology with a certificate in Global Health. My academic interests lie in chronic disease intervention, health equity, and the ways structural and psychosocial factors shape health outcomes—particularly in the context of women’s and children’s health. In the summer of 2025, I joined Dr. Sheng’s lab to assist with data processing and documentation preparation. I also have research experience in developmental language disorder interventions for children with autism, and I conducted an independent study on health-seeking behaviors in conflict settings with a publication. Currently, I am preparing to apply to graduate programs in public health, with a focus on epidemiology and social and behavioral sciences. My long-term goal is to bridge social science and digital product to improve health access and outcomes. Outside of academics, I enjoy exploring countries with different cultures, documenting my experiences through photography and reflective writing. In my free time, you can find me at the theater watching musicals and dramas—or simply at home with my cat.