Why did you choose UNI?

I chose UNI because of its smaller school size and for the opportunities that are available to students in the psychology department such as research experience and a cooperative education class.

What have you enjoyed the most about attending UNI?

I have enjoyed all the activities that are offered on campus. From homecoming festivities to finals week de-stress events, UNI makes sure that students can make the most out of their college experience.

How did you become interested in your major? 

I attended a campus tour of UNI my junior year of high school and was immediately sure I wanted to major in psychology when we toured Sabin Hall and I learned all about UNI’s psychology department. 

What have been some of your favorite aspects of the major?

I have enjoyed the elective options that are available with a psychology degree. I got to pick classes that taught me about the areas I was especially interested in which helped lead me to decide what kind of work I wanted to do after graduation.

How have you been involved outside of the classroom?

Throughout my time at UNI, I was a member of the Psychology Club for three years, completed an internship for course credit, and studied abroad in Greece for 3 weeks. As a member of the psych club, I was able to meet other students with similar interests and get help with choosing which professors to take certain classes with from members of the exec board. I did my internship spring semester of 2023 through a class offered by psychology department professor Carolyn Hildebrandt called Cooperative Education. I completed and presented a project on my internship experience at a psychology conference held on UNI’s campus, as well as received course credit for the hours I put in. Lastly, the three weeks I spent in Greece were some of the best weeks of my life. I met so many new people and experienced lots of new things. UNI’s study abroad program is amazing and I highly recommend learning more about it!

What professors have been most influential through your time here at UNI?

My Co-Op professor, Dr. Hildebrandt was very supportive in helping me with my internship project. She was always encouraging me to keep seeking out new experiences to help me grow. Also, Dr. Lefler of the psychology department helped me to discover what I am truly passionate about through her Child and Adolescent Psychology class. She was always willing to answer any questions I had about beginning a career in Child Psychology. 

What are your post-graduation plans? 

I plan to attend graduate school in fall of 2024 somewhere out of state for social work! In the meantime, I will be working full-time as a Behavioral Technician at Balance Autism in Waterloo, Iowa. 

My time at UNI has helped me prepare for my plans through the experiences it has offered and the classes that have allowed me to learn about what I am passionate about.

What advice would you give to students who are considering this major?

I would say, get to know your professors! They are there to help you and answer any questions you have, especially about life post-undergrad. You need to be the one to facilitate the relationship. They won’t know who you are if you don’t reach out and establish that connection!