About Me

Background

I was born and raised in Sao Leopoldo, a city in the southernmost state of Brazil. In 2004, just a year after I graduated from college, I moved to Gainesville, Florida to pursue my graduate studies. I was a lucky girl to be accepted into one of the best Journalism and Communications programs in the United States. At UF, I had the pleasure to work under the supervision of Dr. Lynda L. Kaid for both my master's and Ph.D. degrees. I also met other fantastic professors and made some long-lasting friendships. My time at the University of Florida was truly enjoyable and I had many wonderful experiences there, both academic and personal.

In 2007, I got married to Juliano Laran, a very talented Professor of Marketing. We welcomed our beautiful daughter in 2012. Mariana is a smart, lively, loving little girl, who is curious about everything and everyone. 

Life as a College Professor

I left Gainesville in May 2010 shortly after my graduation. I moved to Miami, where I started my academic career as an Assistant Professor at Florida International University. I taught courses in advertising, public relations, and research methods at FIU. I also worked with master's students during their Professional Project semester. In 2012, I accepted a position as an Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Communication. I taught advertising, research methods, and graduate courses at UM. In the Spring of 2019, I was awarded tenure and promotion at the University of Miami. In August 2019, I transitioned back to the University of Florida. I am now an Assistant Professor of Advertising at the College of Journalism and Communications. It is exciting to be back as a faculty member at my Alma Mater! My research centers on two main areas: (1) the uses and effects of negative information in persuasive communication and (2) how social and traditional media are used as strategic tools in electoral contexts.

Little Things 

- I love to put puzzles together

- I drink coffee every single day of my life

- I'm a big fan of Bon Jovi and Shakira

- I LOVE shoes