Assistant Professor in the Department of Education and Human Development at Clemson University
About
Dr. Rapa's research rests at the intersection of developmental and educational psychologies. Broadly, Dr. Rapa studies how contextual, sociocultural, and sociopolitical — including socioeconomic disadvantage, structural constraints, and societal inequity — shape key developmental and psychological processes to promote or constrain development and well-being. Dr. Rapa is also co-director of Clemson University's Center for the Recruitment and Retention of Diverse Educators.
Current Work:
Dr. Rapa studies how issues related to societal inequality (e.g., poverty, racism, discrimination) shape individuals' development, their experiences in school, their academic and occupational outcomes, and their well-being more generally.
Research Area Keyword(s):
Adolsecent development, critical consciousness, equity, marginalizing systems
