Sofia Ritter-Pleitez graduated from the University of San Diego in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Neuroscience and a minor in sociology. Upon graduating, she worked as a registered behavior technician (RBT) with children on the autism spectrum. She is currently in the second year of her Master’s in Medical Sciences at Boston University.

Sofia’s interest in sleep research began with her experience as a coxswain on the women’s rowing team. Balancing a full course load and Division-I athletics made it challenging to consistently get enough sleep. After making sleep a priority, she noticed improvements in both her academic performance and athletic performance on the water. Later, while working as an RBT, she observed that poor sleep was often associated with increased irritability and more aggressive behaviors in her clients. These experiences sparked her interest in understanding how sleep deprivation affects cognitive and emotional functioning in the brain. Outside of the lab, Sofia enjoys running, coxing at Riverside Boat Club, reading, and exploring the city.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Neuroscience and a Minor in Sociology | University of San Diego, San Diego, CA

• 2nd Year Master’s in Medical Sciences | Boston University, Boston, MA