Welcome to the #DragonFamily: Amber Visina and Joshua Johnson

Meet Amber Visina and Joshua Johnson, new assistant professors in the psychology department. They are at MSUM to instruct both undergraduate and graduate students.

Q: What drew you to MSUM?

Amber: I always admired my psychology professors in the past. They were great mentors and made me love the field. When this opportunity came up, I knew I could see myself in this position and applied.

Joshua: I was a student here for undergraduate and graduate school. I loved the professors and the tight-knit community. It has been such a fun transition having the professors I looked up to become my colleagues.

Q: What is your before-class routine?

Amber: I like to greet students as they walk in. It’s hard to remember names in large classes, but I’m trying my best.

Joshua: Before every class, I go for a walk around campus. I love getting fresh air and sunlight, (and the squirrels are a joy to watch). I usually get to class early so I have a chance to chat with the students; it’s always great getting to know them better.

Q: What is something that fascinates you about psychology?

Amber: I’ve always been fascinated by how behavior can be changed or modified. I used to be a school psychologist and helped determine replacement behaviors.

Joshua: I’m always intrigued by how people, especially children, learn. It fascinates me to see the parallels between how people learn new behaviors and how they learn academic skills.

Q: If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Amber: Italy. My husband and I love to cook and I want to go deep sea fishing.

Joshua: New Zealand. I’m a big Lord of the Rings fan, so visiting Hobbiton and seeing all the beautiful scenery is a goal of mine.

Q: What is your favorite comfort food?

Amber: Pasta. Preferably with alfredo sauce, mushrooms and spinach.

Joshua: Homemade lasagna. You just can’t go wrong. My wife has a secret family recipe, and it is truly life changing.

Welcome to the #DragonFamily, Amber and Joshua!