Ryna is a graduate student in Communication Science under the mentorship of Dr. Catalina Toma. Her research interests lie in computer-mediated communication, media effects, and social support. She is particularly interested in understanding the unique role of social media in connecting individuals, especially those who are distant from one another. Her current work examines how online relationships can provide companionship and social support, in contexts such as anonymous forums and livestreaming. Previously, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communication Studies from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.