Izabella Maja Zia: Where Psychology Meets Communication — and Data Ties It All Together

Izabella Maja Zia — known to most as Bella — is a student at the University of Georgia whose academic path reflects both clarity of purpose and a deep curiosity about human behavior. From early in high school, Zia knew she wanted to pursue industrial organizational psychology, a field that examines how people function in the workplace and how organizations can foster healthier, more productive environments. That clarity led her to major in psychology, but her interests didn’t stop there. 

As she explored her coursework, she found herself drawn to communication studies. What began as a minor quickly evolved into a second major after she realized how much the material resonated with her. Psychology gave her the theoretical framework to understand behavior, while Communication Studies added a layer of nuance—how people express themselves, how relationships form and how influence works in professional settings. Together, the two majors offered her a multidimensional view of human experience, especially within the context of work. 

Her academic trio was completed with a minor in statistics, a decision she wrestled with before fully committing. After taking PSYC3990, Zia discovered a genuine enjoyment for the mathematical side of her studies. Statistics gave her the tools to analyze data, interpret research, and bring empirical rigor to her understanding of psychology and communication.  

“What I’ve learned at Franklin is that you can customize and build your college experience from the ground up,” said Zia.   

With this unique three-fold combination, Zia is preparing herself not just to understand people—but to improve the systems they work in. Her story is a testament to the power of “and” —psychology and communication studies and statistics. Together, they form a foundation not just for a career, but for a life of meaningful impact.  

Now in her upper-level courses, Zia feels like she’s finally diving into the heart of her academic journey. Classes like psychology in the workplace and psychological testing have transformed studying from a chore into a passion. She finds herself constantly researching beyond the syllabus, chasing ideas that excite her and refining her vision for the kind of role she wants to pursue after graduation. 

Her studies took on new depth during a Study Abroad in Ischia, Italy, where she participated in the Employee Health and Wellness program. For two weeks, she immersed herself in Italian work culture, exploring concepts like work-life balance and recovery strategies while experiencing firsthand how different cultural norms shape professional life. The program blended rigorous academics with experiential learning, making the material come alive in ways that traditional classrooms rarely do.   

“I had the opportunity to go on the Employee Health and Wellness in Italy program over the Maymester session,” Zia said. “On the island in Ischia, Italy we learned to balance rigorous coursework on top of daily activities while immersing ourselves in the work culture of the island. Learning about concepts such as work-life balance while being able to experience how much more laid back everybody was in Italy compared to American culture really enhanced the understanding and application of the material rather than simply memorizing terms.”   

Outside of academics, Zia is deeply involved in campus life. She’s an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi, where she builds business knowledge and professional development skills. As education chair of the Athens fiber arts society, she teaches weekly crochet classes and helps organize charity sales, combining creativity with community service. At the Swap Shop, UGA’s free thrift store, she volunteers as Assistant Manager, promoting sustainability and connecting with students over shared values. Whether she’s weighing donations or chatting with customers, Zia brings warmth and intention to everything she does. 

Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a PhD or master’s in industrial organizational psychology. She’s still exploring whether she wants to work in consulting or the nonprofit sector, but she’s confident that her academic foundation—rooted in psychology, communication, and statistics—will serve her well in either path.  

For prospective students, Zia describes Franklin as a place where you can build your own experience from the ground up. The opportunities are vast, but they require initiative. Her advice is simple: start. Start applying, start joining, start connecting. Because that’s how you create a college experience that’s not just successful—but meaningful.  

“There are so many directions that Franklin can take you,” said Zia. “The caveat of having so many options is that you get out what you put in. However, if you’re motivated and really want to be at UGA, you’ll thrive. 

Bella’s story is one of intentional exploration, interdisciplinary learning, and a commitment to making the workplace—and the world—a better place.