Brian Davitt
From Music to Research: Brian Davitt’s Story
Brian Davitt is a 2014 graduate of Marywood University with a degree in General Psychology. Today, he works as a Data Manager on clinical trials for the University of Rochester, a career in research that was shaped in part by the experiences he had as a Marywood student.
Brian originally chose Marywood because of his interest in music therapy. While his academic path ultimately led him to General Psychology and a career in clinical research, music remained an important part of his college experience and became one of the biggest influences on his time at the University.
For Brian, the Campus Choir was particularly meaningful. He was also involved in the concert band, jazz band, and music ministry, making music a significant part of his life outside the classroom. These experiences gave him opportunities to build relationships, collaborate with others, and remain connected to an important personal passion throughout his college years.
His academic experience at Marywood also helped shape the direction of his career. “My undergraduate research experience made me want to have a career in research,” Brian says. That early exposure to research provided an important foundation for his current work managing data for clinical trials at the University of Rochester.
One of Brian’s proudest professional accomplishments has been being listed as a co author on an abstract presented by Dr. Patrick Reagan. For Brian, the recognition reflects the continued connection between his undergraduate research experiences and his professional work in the research field.
Looking back, Brian describes Marywood’s influence on his personal growth in simple but meaningful terms. “Marywood set me up to become the man I am today,” he says. His experiences both inside and outside the classroom helped prepare him for the person and professional he would become.
Brian has also seen significant changes in the world of education and research since graduating. When asked how the University experience has evolved, he points to one of the most transformative developments of recent years: “AI surely has been an earth moving event.” The rapid growth of artificial intelligence has changed how people learn, work, conduct research, and approach technology, creating new possibilities and challenges for today’s students and professionals.
Today, one of Brian’s most important priorities is raising his two year old with his wife, who is also a member of the Marywood Class of 2014. Their shared connection to Marywood is now part of their family story, creating another lasting connection to the University and the community they experienced together as students.
For current Marywood students, Brian offers advice that balances dedication with enjoying the college experience: “Work hard when you work, play hard when you play, and never one without the other.”
Brian’s journey from an aspiring music therapy student to a psychology graduate and clinical research professional reflects the many ways a Marywood education can open unexpected doors. Through research, music, relationships, and personal growth, his time at Marywood helped lay the foundation for the career and life he has built today.