Shyy’Nara (Shyy) was raised in Okinawa, Japan and came to Virginia in 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Health Sciences from Virginia Commonwealth University. She currently works as a research assistant with the AYA Research Team, contributing to projects that explore Black parental relationships and their generational impact. Shyy’Nara also works as a patient care technician with VCU Health System’s Hospital at Home program while preparing to apply to medical school. Her research and clinical interests include Black family dynamics, preventative and addictive medicine, and family-centered care.