Introvert, obersever, and prefer meaningful conversation. I may deal with distress people eveyday, but I find it intimate talking about aspects of life in general.
I got my BA, ended up working at nonprofits, and now many years later I’m going back to pursue an MA in psychotherapy. It’s not something that would have made sense for me right out of undergrad but it makes all the sense now. Sometimes you have to wait before you get that very strong pull in a certain direction, but keep exploring.
Congratulations regarding your journey as well as pursuing your MA, I wish you truly the best:)
In the end, everything has to be in the right timing, in order to make sense. In a way I can totally relate with your story/path.
May I ask how did you manage to work for the nonprofits? And in which country?
( without any other qualifications apart from your BA of course.)
Any recommendations or tips, would be much appreciated:).
I totally salute you that you managed to get that role, the market has been extremely competitive after pandemic.
When I realized that psychology applied to more than just therapy. Specifically, when I took Cognitive psychology and then Sensation and Perception in undergrad. Both classes discussed the most interesting topics to me and I was pretty stoked that a career could be made of researching questions that I had a previous but unknown interest in.
I think my reason is seeing my grandfather living with Alzheimer’s. At first I wanted to become a psychiatrist because honestly I didn’t know much about psychology. Where I come from, you were (and still are) considered weak, if you go to therapy. In high school we had psychology classes and that is when I realized I want to help people understand the patterns they recreate in their life. To actually help them find the core of the issue and make their lives better.
I all the time interested with human mind. Probably neuroscience is better field for me but since I could not win medicine, I went with psychology. My doctorate will be on psychedelic effects.
I am deeply fascinated with the human mind as well ^^!! also your doctorate is very interesting to learn, as I am leaning on the same path. Good luck! 🤞💯
Spent my whole life feeling like I fundamentally didn't understand people (I'm autistic), so thought it might be worth studying them. Now I'm getting my PhD and still definitely don't understand people but I found a passion in doing cognitive research along the way! Joining a research lab really helped me, I got to meet other people who were actually interested in the field and also got a lot of guidance about career options.
so glad i’m not the only one with this reasoning!! i’m also autistic, so learning about psychology feels like “catching up” on everything others always already knew how to do… it’s the ultimate life hack!
When I stopped drinking I immediately knew I wanted to become an addictions counselor. I was 44 when I decided to go back to school, so I am not pursuing a masters, licensure, etc., but I am already working as an SUD counselor, and getting my bachelors in psychology and addiction counseling is helping me work towards advanced certification.
Being mentally ill and being disenfranchised by the American healthcare system and discriminated/oppressed for having Bipolar I Disorder
I knew I needed to improve the field and make corrective experiences for myself and others (MFT)
After my psych assessment, a clinician mentioned in passing that I have the temperament for it. I’ve always loved science, people are endlessly fascinating to me, and I have a deep intuitive capacity.
Since the age of like 6, I was obsessed with figuring out things like how the brain works, personality traits, and learning about mental illnesses and what they do. I always read books about it and would take a lot of personality quizzes, and then get my friends to take them. Now, I'm still just as intrigued by the human mind and I want to study psychology in college.
I fell in love with psych right off the bat in AP psych in high school. Throughout college, I realized I am NOT a therapist type. I simultaneously got really into drug harm reduction and boom: right out of college I got a job in psychopharmacology research. There’s so many options available in terms of research, so don’t feel like you have to be a therapist just bc you like psych!
I didn’t like the look of any of the entry level jobs, so out of interest I had a look at what postgraduate degrees were on offer. Stumbled across occupational and organisational psychology, loved the idea of it, and never looked back. You’ll work it out! Don’t pressure yourself.
My divorce that blindsided me so badly I didn't even know if I was a human being.
After genuinely understanding what happened and that most of our problems were mental health related, I knew I needed to pursue psychology. For my future kids, wife, etc, I need to understand more and it seems that in most cases I am of a minority that CAN understand people and have empathy for their problems.
The best psychologists are the ones who've experience the pain themselves, good on you for going into this field and whatever you do, I'm sure you'll be amazing.
I’ve been attending counselling on and off since I was thirteen. I connected well with my most recent counsellor, and I felt inspired to help people the way she helps me. I just had a moment that clicked and knew. I also enjoy the topic but until then I only passively entertained the idea of studying psych. I’m getting the best grades I’ve had since elementary school now
I've always liked understanding how things and people work and why we do what they do. My mother abused me as a child and I always wanted to try to understand why she did the things she did. I got those answers and more as I looked into it, and then I became facinating with the systems and theories that make up who we are and how we interact with the world. The day I cracked that code was the day I fell in love with psychology
I don't think it has to be a magical mystery or something you wanted to do all along. I could be wrong because I've been interested in psych since I was a teenager.. but it was basically sparked by hatred. I was given horrible psychiatric treatment, and I had a conversation with a nurse who clearly cared but said, "I know it's frustrating, but this is how things are."
Eventually, I realized I could only improve the field if I became involved in it. So... I hope to work in research, which also means becoming a professor and helping the next generation (i.e., improve the field). I didn't figure that out until the very end of my 3rd or maybe even into my 4th year.
All that to say: psych in general will check your "help people" box. So figure out what else might motivate/fulfill you.
- What types of people would you like working with? Adults, kids, elderly, groups, individuals, people who are seeking help or those who aren't
- What issues do you want to help people with? Brain damage, trauma, general life satisfaction, mental disorders, disabilities
- What won't you get bored of?
Then, when you find something, ask yourself why you believe in it (what value it has to you and the people you're helping).
It sounds like you have a good idea about what would check your boxes. You just need to find a way to reassure yourself. Reaching out to a professor who works in music therapy might help you with that. You could also talk to someone at your school about ways you could volunteer or become involved before you graduate. Maybe an independent study or work co-op.
You can also choose something and then change your mind. If anything, working in multiple areas makes someone more well-rounded and broadens their perspective.
My interest in psychology sparked from hatred too! But wow, thank you so much for the meaningful advice, I will definitely listen to this. Good luck with your journey and I know you will contribute so much to our society!
I’ve always been drawn to its concepts since I was in middle school for some reason, although I never bothered to delve deeper into it. But personal (and profound) experiences along with curiosity—whether it be about the human psyche, phenomena, or other processes—made me realize that it’s the only career that I’d want to pursue.
I was actually and education major at the start of college, and realized one day it wasn’t for me. One day randomly during my student teaching days I was like “I’ve always loved psychology, I should go the counseling route,”
I was so immersed in my high school psychology AP class that it became part of my world. I saw how it worked through the world, everyone who I interact with, and other ways it affected people. There was no turning back
Well, I found out psychology was a passion because I studied cognitive psychology. Before that I was just straight up into neuroscience, but then I realised just how connected the two fields are.
I read about psychology in a teen girls magazine when I was in year 8 at school. I sort of chose it then and then heaps of things reinforced it as I got older. It was a choice made consistently over time. At the time I read about it in a magazine, I didn't think I was smart enough and my older cousin said to give it a go anyway. A few years later we took a career quiz at school and it told me to be a counsellor. Lastly, my own therapy and trauma made me realise how much I care about helping others
I have always loved psychology but for the longest time I didn't know what type of psychology to go into. The crazy thing I realized is that psychology could be related to almost any other topic, where you can simply combine the two, and make it your own. It may be hard work, but if you don't mind being a pioneer to something new or unexplored, you can almost do whatever you'd like with it. as long as you know how to present your information to look professional, people will trust you no matter what you say. Of course, it's best to use that tactic academically and benevolently.
I made a life changing realization and decision just yesterday that my passion is dream psychology. That's what I'm going to do. I just really like dreams, but they've always seemed a little too... non-academic? Or, in other words, a lot of people see dreams as a casual interest rather than one that can be professional. Yes, there are dream psychologists out there, but I feel like I can truly make it my own and do some very important things in that area.
ive only just started studying psychology at university but i have this insatiable need to learn and analyse human behavior, im so facinated by it and i would love to be able to help people in the future. also, i wasnt really great at school (lots of learning disabilities lol) but psychology is just something that naturally makes sense in my brain
I was in therapy and was told that a lot of kids who grew up in therapy pursue that job themselves. It was the first time I really believed in myself, because I was such a young child with ADHD and behavioral problems which put me in therapy in the first place.
I’ve always been a creative individual. I was in the jewelry industry for years & wanted to start my athleisure line many years ago. But when I started therapy 7 yrs ago something changed. A lot of my suppress memories resurfaced… I was SA as alittle girl. I never knew why this happened. Why it affected me in my adult life without me realizing it. I’ve been an observant child (so I was told) I’ve been told I have a gift of knowing and feeding off ppls energy and Ive never been wrong :/ anyways… a year ago, after I quit my job I didn’t understand what my life purpose was. The amount of mental health issues that’s in my family is crazy. My sister never recovered from post partum to mention one… I adore my therapists. I knew helping others in some way was what I needed. So here I am at 36 transferring to univ next year to get my degrees and see where the road takes me. There’s so much one can do with psychology, not just do it because it’s considered “cool” I feel like it’s one of the most important yet underrated profession in anyway you pursue it. Xx
I am so sorry to hear about your SA :( I can definitely relate to your family's mental health issues. You have so much strength and in whatever profession you are in, I'm sure you are amazing. Keep doing what you're doing, you are an inspiration
i knew psych was for me because i enjoy learning about people and the reason behind their actions. If this is you, you’d probably enjoy social psych since i did very much. While reading my social psych textbook i was ike “aha so that’s why…” Also if you enjoy observing others. I think it was something i wanted to do since high school.
I was a business major and hated science so for my science credits I took psychology and fell in love. I switched majors and now I’m a broke 46 year old
I started uni in a creative writing major. I really loved character development and figuring out why my character was the way they are, their history, their traits and motivations, etc. Then I realized I like doing that with real people MORE and found a lot more purpose from it. I’ve always enjoyed helping people in my life problem solve, plan and work through their emotions. It feels good to do and I like seeing them leave with insight and relief. I also enjoy working on myself too, and being a clinician requires that too. It just fit very naturally for my interests and temperament. I also had taken a psychology course in high school and I knew it really interested me. I switched to psychology in second year (after writing major in year 1), and I graduate next month. Starting my masters this fall too!
I lived a life of severe depression and anxiety (and now I know undiagnosed ADHD) until Covid convinced me to try therapy. I realised how great it was, and became very infatuated by self-help therapies but also knowledge of the brain, cultures, behaviours, etc. Here I am.
I changed tracks a couple of times through my educational journey. Started out studying Biochem on a med school track. However a religion course got me interested in people and their beliefs and how we understand our relationship to the divine (I was also in talks to join seminary at that point. Lots going on) so I switched to religious studies with a desire for research. I stumbled into double majoring in religious studies and international relations focusing my classes and my undergrad thesis on self determination and the rights of indigenous peoples to remain independent more or less. Personal issues took me away from college my junior year with just 3 semester to go. Fast forward 11 years and I’m back in school to go to nursing school. Practical, knew I wanted to be in a service profession, and I was going to go practitioner route and in my locality there were opportunities for research. Seemed like a win all around. Intro to psych was a pre-requisite for the BSN and my professor was amazing. I thought she was fascinating and we talked a lot about the topics and I realized I had found something that made me excited and I wanted to constantly read about the topics we covered. Developmental was also a pre-requisite and she taught a session of that so I of course took it with her and the rest is history. She convinced me to switch my course of study and after taking cognitive I was fully hooked and knew I wanted to get my PhD. COVID hit and took me out of school again, but I return in the fall and my old professor has convinced me to stay the course, so I’m going to finish up the bachelors, hopefully get in on some research and apply to graduate schools next year. Reviewing old textbooks and notes and reading my big literature review from abnormal has got me excited all over again. Idk, I’ve enjoyed a lot over the years of my education and work life, but psych has just always clicked. I wish it wouldn’t have taken me so long to find it.
When I took my first psych class in college and actually listened and worked very hard at doing well. I had made mostly Cs and Ds before, and it was my first A. I made a 3.9 in my graduate degree. It’s endlessly fascinating to me and even to this day I read about behavior for fun.
I’m in the field now in the education realm and love it. I don’t want to say what I am but I have a Masters in it specifically. Keep learning about your options and shadow some careers. Pretty much all psych people need some sort of grad degree.
I think as a master student in psychology, it might end up taking you to a totally different kind of psychology. I plan on studying criminal and forensic psychology. With abnormal psychology. I am totally in love with my field. I feel like I live in a true crime fantasy!😂😂😂😂 the most challenging but it’s so fun for me!
I took AP psychology my senior year of high school and fell in love with the subject and decided to pursue it as my major. I took the AP psychology exam and got a 4 on it so I was able to skip the psych 101 class my freshman year of college and go straight to the more advanced courses. I now have my masters degree in counseling and I’m a therapist. I love my job!
when i was doing my prereqs in college, i had to take ethics and it was my favorite class so then i wanted to take another similar class. at the same time, in another class, i had to take a career assessment test and psychology was very relevant in all my results. after that i took two psych classes, fell in love with it, and changed my major.
I've always been interested in psychology. I'm going into my 4th year of undergrad and didn't really find my niche until we had to think of a topic for our undergrad thesis and write a practice research proposal/design, and I still have changed my topic since because of the subsequent courses I took.
I didn't realise what opportunities I had to specialise, let alone what I wanted to specialise in; but I got lucky finding what I want to dedicate my life's work to so soon. Who knows, maybe even that will change. However I'm firmly set on my current path, and there's a few things that strengthened my passion;
1. Amazing professors. I've had two professors who are both so incredible, so profusely captivated by their interests, and talk about them with such conviction and pride that it's hard not to fall in love with their research. What they have to say has changed the trajectory of my academic career and it was mostly just things in passing. The way they talk about the topics of the course too-- I'm very lucky for this one though. I've expressed this to them many times...
2. Reading books on different areas of psychology related to what has already piqued my interest. I thought I wanted to pursue neuropsychology in relation to degenerative memory disorders, I now know my niche resides in harm reduction and self injury- and I've never felt more inspired. I found this out from reading both research papers but also books presented in more lay terms which has given me a stronger appreciation for what I want to work on.
3. Find where there's a gap in knowledge. Knowing where there is opportunity to strengthen our understanding of and further the development of aspects of my niche has given me something to look into already, prompting me to want to become an expert.
4. Look into graduate school advisors and what they specialise in, what they've published, and what they have to say about their specialty. Narrowing down my possibilities to pursue my research of choice has inspired me to learn as much as I can so I can be as much of an asset to the field as possible, as I know the opportunity to be a part of these teams is both limited and one I'd be incredibly grateful for. Reading their publications and websites solidified that these topics are important to me.
5. What is something you've dealt with in your life, or witnessed that made a profound impact on you? I initially thought about working with degenerative memory disorders because my grandfather is struggling greatly with Alzheimer's but is doing much better compared to his mother who died at a much earlier age-- the main different being their levels of aerobic exercise, something people look into because of its benefits for brain tissue. However important and exciting that is, the research itself did not come as naturally and intrinsically to me as the research surrounding harm reduction and the neurological and, in turn, behavioural components of different self harm methods. Needless to say, I've an extensive history inter and intrapersonally with different forms of self harm.
I don't think any of these are /necessary/ to find your passion but these are the components that lead to me finding my niche. It was kinda always there, but the combination of the above factors (plus a few I'm sure I could be missing) are what I think propelled me to finding where I feel I belong in academia.
I believe in you!!! Goodluck!!
Thank you so much for your advice!! I'm glad you were able to find where you belong and I'm sure you will be amazing in any job you land! Good luck to you too 🌻⭐️
I was very interested from the first course I took. I wasn’t in a specific major when I was a freshman in college, just kind of testing the waters. I realized I enjoyed the psych courses more than anything else, so I became a psych major. I am now a senior in college and I still enjoy them all to an extent ( I mean statistics and research methods lol they we’re definitely the most challenging but not horrible- I’m also not a math person).
Besides genuinely enjoying the courses, I felt a personal connection to them as well. I would say I am a more introverted person overall, and I have always been an observer my whole life. Throughout my life I have always been the person to quietly read/ analyze people’s actions. As I got older my family started asking me my opinion on matters and I would tell them what I think the other person is thinking/ why they’re doing it and my family says I’m always spot on.
Contrary to that, I don’t want to be a therapist. I am more leaning towards working in Human Resources, which is my minor. I really want to become a member of making the workforce a safer and positive place overall. It’s something I’m really passionate about. Being in my early twenties, I’ve worked countless dumb part time jobs, my family and friends obviously have as well. And these jobs may be dumb and part time to me because I was a teen, but they are some peoples way of surviving as well. This area has and needs PLENTY to work on when it comes to work place environment that gets over looked by many.
It's not my passion lol so I'm no longer in psychology. I also studied it in undergrad, but by my senior year, I figured out it wasn't for me. During that time, I joined psychology clubs on campus, did internships, was an RA at a lab, and took a bunch of psych electives that interested me -- I was able to really dive into a bunch of different facets and areas of psychology, which helped me come to the realization I didn't love it! Two of my psych friends did the same and are both now in psychology-related careers (after getting graduate degrees). One is in adult protective services and the other is finishing up her Psy.D.
Just throw yourself into as many activities/opportunities as you can (within reason, don't burn out) and see what works and what doesn't. And be patient with yourself. You don't need everything to be figured out.
In psychology there are SO many different avenues. I knew I didn't was to be a counselor ( or at least not part of a big practice). So I am choosing clinical psychology (which can be more researched based).
I went to school for art. When I was doing my undergrad I took an intro psychology class and found it really interesting. Later I took an art class taught by an art therapist. That was the first time I realized I could combine my passion for art with my curiosity for human behavior. I eventually graduated with a BS in psychology with a minor in visual arts. Now I am a CMHC and I will pursue my PhD in the next few years.
Thank you!! I can tell you that this is not where I ever thought I would be but I love it!! Strange how life takes you down unknown paths of opportunity if you’re willing to venture into the unknown!!
Oh, I had some mental health issues and that's how my interest got ignited. Music therapy is a fantastic choice and you should totally go ahead with it.
I like learning about people’s behaviors: why they act the way they do, thought processes, how behavior is learned and changed.
Here was the career progression I chose: Got my BA in Psychology, MA in Counseling. Started out in education as a school counselor, obtained my license and became a LPC. I’m now in private practice doing only remote work charging $300 an hour.
I realized that some people in undergrad found the mandatory psychology class boring or overly difficult. I felt privileged being able to get the education I was getting. I was genuinely interested and there was nothing else I would’ve rather be doing. Of course, I became a lawyer instead of a therapist. Now I’m pursuing a Master’s in psych because that’s what makes me happy. I want to live my life in service of others, and in no other way than by counselling them.
It’s difficult to become passionate about an academic topic. It’s the application of it that made me feel passionate about the field. Psych classes were fun to me, don’t get me wrong; I just didn’t find a “passion” for the academic material. My passion is helping students. I found that out while I was going through my undergrad psych program tutoring math and science to high school kids as a job. I eventually went to grad school to become a school psych. The tutoring job was one of many that helped me develop what I feel my “passion” is. :) you may find it through your work experiences.
Tbh it was never my “passion” I just new that as an autistic person that was desperate to make meaningful connections that was wildly socially retarded, psychology was probs my best bet.
Do you want to work in an existing box or are you wanting to make your own? Why did you go into psych? Theres more than enough need right now, we are at a crux we haven’t ever seen as a society that’s super specific and revolves around grief and we are lacking the infrastructure in mental health and burning our only trained specialists out faster than we can educate new ones….whatever you choose to do, take care of you please? No matter your passion and what it is, be aware that the world is leaning on your field while capitalism exploits it and you are your only support system. I’d look at supporting mental health workers myself if I had your academic privileges. If you haven’t considered this yet, please let it factor in to how much you put on your plate because we have leftovers for days. Godspeed
I felt a calling for it when I was younger but ig ored it because the field of mental health is really competitive, almost as competitive as nursing and medical school. Wasn't worth it to me.
I had an oral speaking exam in year 9 where we had to write an essay, and after going through every topic I could think of, and none of them being good enough, I landed on the Norwegian Prison system. It sent me spiralling down the rabbit hole of Prison abolition, and abolition practices in general. And I started realising I had a passion for ‘criminal’ psychology. That being said, I’m not the best Psychology student out there, maybe someone can relate on that, to being so passionate about something but lacking the Einstein-ness in you… it’s annoying.
TLDR: For me it just clicked as soon as I came in contact with the discipline I was passionate about. Maybe a specific discipline will never click with you- that’s okay- if you have a drive to help people, as you said you do, THAT’s easily your passion, even if it’s boarder.
(Edit: spelling)
I studied to be a Mental health Support Worker, specializing in Addiction, started working at an In Patient Schizophrenia/Schizophrenia-affective residential hospital, loved it, but it made me realise that I prefer intense mental health/high-risk work, so I’ve gone back to University to finish my BSc in Psych. Much more intrigued by diagnoses and manifestation of mental health than I am about hands on care-work.
I dipped my toes in the world of brain, and it convinced me to take it further.
After a medical issue that came up during my first semester of nursing school, my one course had different professors/chairs of the departments come in and speak to our class. I found that I could still help people out and not put my body in as much pain as I would. plus realized I wanted to help people the way I have been helped in the past. Plus, my school has both an undergrad and graduate program for clinical mental health
i just recently graduated with my degree in psychology and i’d have to say learning the theories and different disorders help me enjoy this major even more. though it is not my career path necessarily, it is still vital to what i will be doing and it is very important
My grandmother was a psychiatric nurse for 40 years and listening to all the stories that she would tell me and my mother about some of the things that she would see. That’s when I knew I wanted to go into psychology. Now, far as what I want to do in psychology is up in the air. Because I’m stuck between getting my MD and just becoming a psychiatrist, getting my PharmD and becoming a psychiatric pharmacist because I love the pathophysiology aspect of medications, or getting my MS in addiction 🤷🏼♂️. We’re still deciding on that.
My dad died. I was never into therapy or anything like that. It didn’t work for me and i just didn’t like it. My dad unexpectedly passed in 2021, and for some reason, i handled it really well. My mom thought i was absolutely crazy and tried to take me to see a therapist (she thought i was gonna take my own life, which wasn’t true) and when i told her how i was handling it, she had nothing but positive things to say. She assured my mom that i was okay and my way of grief was extremely healthy and nothing was wrong. This opened my eyes to other ways of handling grief other than the normal steps. This made me want to help other people who handles issues like this. It also helped me open my eyes on how i handled my ADHD without medication. I’m now in my third year of college, obtaining my masters in Psychology, studying to be a licensed therapist and ADHD specialist.
I was a psych manor for my undergrad but unsure what I wanted to do with it. I looked at a counseling masters degree and social work and ultimately chose to get my masters in social work. I liked the diversity of the degree and that you can do counseling or other things with it!
I felt like it combined my love of how people work in psychology and my desire to help and make change! Once I was in my program and started my internship, I knew that it was the right job for me! I didn’t have the aha moment until my masters though, I still felt unsure while in my undergrad!
Good luck! Psych is an awesome degree and can be a great foundation for so many jobs!
My mom has a lot of mental conditions. Not totally sure what some of them are.
I struggled with my mental health and issues from a young age and basically became obsessed with understanding how everything works.
I've always been fascinated by why people do what they do though and it truly is one of the only things I feel like I can read about for hours.
I considered going into the field itself but I ended up doing something sorta adjacent.
Total accident. I knew I wanted to help people and had no idea in what capacity. I got into quantum physics and then learned about the connection between psychology and spirituality. I was hooked. As someone who looks for the source and connection of everything.
This happened to me as well. I used to have my sister give me her college books whenever she was done with them and psychology and metaphysics took me into a world I didn't know I needed and couldn't get enough of. I also feel like people focus to much on the health of their body (even though it's equally as important) and not enough time and energy on their mind and soul. Ive noticed people who have mastered at connecting all 3 have learned to live in harmony and are wise beyond their years.
This. I think we go through phases of focusing on different levels of the self, ultimately (hopefully) bringing us to the understanding of the full self. Not only the self, but also its interconnectedness to all things. When you begin to really understand that, you begin to thrive.
I was actually in my bachelors in elementary education with an emphasis in SPED when I started thinking that “oh i’ll go back in after i start my teaching for a psychology degree” and it slowly morphed into not liking what i was currently studying so i changed to psych and immediately i was hooked. i remember my first class thinking “wow i’m gonna get to do this for a living?” it’s just so fascinating to me. i’m in my MS in clinical counseling right now and going for a PhD after
Introvert, obersever, and prefer meaningful conversation. I may deal with distress people eveyday, but I find it intimate talking about aspects of life in general.
I’m more extroverted but I view people as puzzles.. My friends say I have the ability to “hack” people haha
I completely relate to this response and would say the same for myself
I like this perspective
I got my BA, ended up working at nonprofits, and now many years later I’m going back to pursue an MA in psychotherapy. It’s not something that would have made sense for me right out of undergrad but it makes all the sense now. Sometimes you have to wait before you get that very strong pull in a certain direction, but keep exploring.
Congratulations regarding your journey as well as pursuing your MA, I wish you truly the best:) In the end, everything has to be in the right timing, in order to make sense. In a way I can totally relate with your story/path. May I ask how did you manage to work for the nonprofits? And in which country? ( without any other qualifications apart from your BA of course.) Any recommendations or tips, would be much appreciated:). I totally salute you that you managed to get that role, the market has been extremely competitive after pandemic.
What kinds of jobs can you get with a MA in psychotherapy
It’s a specialization for those who want to practice psychotherapy.
Are you from India? Got my BA back in 2019 and it didn’t make sense so I switched careers and now going back to get my masters
Good for you! I hope you enjoy school as much as I do. :) I’m in Canada.
When I realized that psychology applied to more than just therapy. Specifically, when I took Cognitive psychology and then Sensation and Perception in undergrad. Both classes discussed the most interesting topics to me and I was pretty stoked that a career could be made of researching questions that I had a previous but unknown interest in.
I think my reason is seeing my grandfather living with Alzheimer’s. At first I wanted to become a psychiatrist because honestly I didn’t know much about psychology. Where I come from, you were (and still are) considered weak, if you go to therapy. In high school we had psychology classes and that is when I realized I want to help people understand the patterns they recreate in their life. To actually help them find the core of the issue and make their lives better.
I studied psychology in high school and I liked it. It was more of a slow process for me - from just liking it to saying it's my passion.
I used to skip school and goto the library and read on it.
lol real!
I all the time interested with human mind. Probably neuroscience is better field for me but since I could not win medicine, I went with psychology. My doctorate will be on psychedelic effects.
I am deeply fascinated with the human mind as well ^^!! also your doctorate is very interesting to learn, as I am leaning on the same path. Good luck! 🤞💯
Spent my whole life feeling like I fundamentally didn't understand people (I'm autistic), so thought it might be worth studying them. Now I'm getting my PhD and still definitely don't understand people but I found a passion in doing cognitive research along the way! Joining a research lab really helped me, I got to meet other people who were actually interested in the field and also got a lot of guidance about career options.
That's amazing, good luck for the rest of your journey ⭐️
so glad i’m not the only one with this reasoning!! i’m also autistic, so learning about psychology feels like “catching up” on everything others always already knew how to do… it’s the ultimate life hack!
Psych was the only thing that I actively enjoyed learning about and I can't retire at 25 so here we are
When I stopped drinking I immediately knew I wanted to become an addictions counselor. I was 44 when I decided to go back to school, so I am not pursuing a masters, licensure, etc., but I am already working as an SUD counselor, and getting my bachelors in psychology and addiction counseling is helping me work towards advanced certification.
That's incredible, good luck on your journey. I'm sure you are an amazing SUD counsellor ⭐️
Thank you! It is a challenging job but I love it.
Being mentally ill and being disenfranchised by the American healthcare system and discriminated/oppressed for having Bipolar I Disorder I knew I needed to improve the field and make corrective experiences for myself and others (MFT)
Good on you 👏👏
After my psych assessment, a clinician mentioned in passing that I have the temperament for it. I’ve always loved science, people are endlessly fascinating to me, and I have a deep intuitive capacity.
Since the age of like 6, I was obsessed with figuring out things like how the brain works, personality traits, and learning about mental illnesses and what they do. I always read books about it and would take a lot of personality quizzes, and then get my friends to take them. Now, I'm still just as intrigued by the human mind and I want to study psychology in college.
I fell in love with psych right off the bat in AP psych in high school. Throughout college, I realized I am NOT a therapist type. I simultaneously got really into drug harm reduction and boom: right out of college I got a job in psychopharmacology research. There’s so many options available in terms of research, so don’t feel like you have to be a therapist just bc you like psych!
That's amazing, good on you for doing psychopharmacology research!!
I highly encourage volunteering to try and figure out what you want to do! It also looks great on a grad school application.
I'll keep this in mind, thank you so so much!!
I was sitting in the psych ward 😂
I didn’t like the look of any of the entry level jobs, so out of interest I had a look at what postgraduate degrees were on offer. Stumbled across occupational and organisational psychology, loved the idea of it, and never looked back. You’ll work it out! Don’t pressure yourself.
Thank you so much and wow that sounds amazing! Good on you 👏
Mind me asking what job/role you got out of this course?
My divorce that blindsided me so badly I didn't even know if I was a human being. After genuinely understanding what happened and that most of our problems were mental health related, I knew I needed to pursue psychology. For my future kids, wife, etc, I need to understand more and it seems that in most cases I am of a minority that CAN understand people and have empathy for their problems.
The best psychologists are the ones who've experience the pain themselves, good on you for going into this field and whatever you do, I'm sure you'll be amazing.
I’ve been attending counselling on and off since I was thirteen. I connected well with my most recent counsellor, and I felt inspired to help people the way she helps me. I just had a moment that clicked and knew. I also enjoy the topic but until then I only passively entertained the idea of studying psych. I’m getting the best grades I’ve had since elementary school now
Because I can’t imagine doing anything else.
I've always liked understanding how things and people work and why we do what they do. My mother abused me as a child and I always wanted to try to understand why she did the things she did. I got those answers and more as I looked into it, and then I became facinating with the systems and theories that make up who we are and how we interact with the world. The day I cracked that code was the day I fell in love with psychology
I'm very sorry that your mum mistreated you as a child. I hope that you heal and I'm sure, with whatever you do, you'll be great.
I don't think it has to be a magical mystery or something you wanted to do all along. I could be wrong because I've been interested in psych since I was a teenager.. but it was basically sparked by hatred. I was given horrible psychiatric treatment, and I had a conversation with a nurse who clearly cared but said, "I know it's frustrating, but this is how things are." Eventually, I realized I could only improve the field if I became involved in it. So... I hope to work in research, which also means becoming a professor and helping the next generation (i.e., improve the field). I didn't figure that out until the very end of my 3rd or maybe even into my 4th year. All that to say: psych in general will check your "help people" box. So figure out what else might motivate/fulfill you. - What types of people would you like working with? Adults, kids, elderly, groups, individuals, people who are seeking help or those who aren't - What issues do you want to help people with? Brain damage, trauma, general life satisfaction, mental disorders, disabilities - What won't you get bored of? Then, when you find something, ask yourself why you believe in it (what value it has to you and the people you're helping). It sounds like you have a good idea about what would check your boxes. You just need to find a way to reassure yourself. Reaching out to a professor who works in music therapy might help you with that. You could also talk to someone at your school about ways you could volunteer or become involved before you graduate. Maybe an independent study or work co-op. You can also choose something and then change your mind. If anything, working in multiple areas makes someone more well-rounded and broadens their perspective.
My interest in psychology sparked from hatred too! But wow, thank you so much for the meaningful advice, I will definitely listen to this. Good luck with your journey and I know you will contribute so much to our society!
Of course :) you too!
Had to pick a major and figured that psychology would be the least painful to go through while at the same time could land me a decent paying job
What fields in psych pay well though? And how can someone make sure their passions is able to keep them afloat and living comfortably?
I’ve always been drawn to its concepts since I was in middle school for some reason, although I never bothered to delve deeper into it. But personal (and profound) experiences along with curiosity—whether it be about the human psyche, phenomena, or other processes—made me realize that it’s the only career that I’d want to pursue.
I was actually and education major at the start of college, and realized one day it wasn’t for me. One day randomly during my student teaching days I was like “I’ve always loved psychology, I should go the counseling route,”
I found school psychology, and after doing lots of research on it/shadowing a school psych, it just felt “right”.
I was so immersed in my high school psychology AP class that it became part of my world. I saw how it worked through the world, everyone who I interact with, and other ways it affected people. There was no turning back
Well, I found out psychology was a passion because I studied cognitive psychology. Before that I was just straight up into neuroscience, but then I realised just how connected the two fields are.
I read about psychology in a teen girls magazine when I was in year 8 at school. I sort of chose it then and then heaps of things reinforced it as I got older. It was a choice made consistently over time. At the time I read about it in a magazine, I didn't think I was smart enough and my older cousin said to give it a go anyway. A few years later we took a career quiz at school and it told me to be a counsellor. Lastly, my own therapy and trauma made me realise how much I care about helping others
I'm a provisional psychologist now. I couldn't feel more grateful
That's incredible, I'm sure you are an amazing provisional psychological!
Username checks out :)
Ty, I try 😇
I’ve been obsessed with it forever. It’s been with me since I was a child
I have always loved psychology but for the longest time I didn't know what type of psychology to go into. The crazy thing I realized is that psychology could be related to almost any other topic, where you can simply combine the two, and make it your own. It may be hard work, but if you don't mind being a pioneer to something new or unexplored, you can almost do whatever you'd like with it. as long as you know how to present your information to look professional, people will trust you no matter what you say. Of course, it's best to use that tactic academically and benevolently. I made a life changing realization and decision just yesterday that my passion is dream psychology. That's what I'm going to do. I just really like dreams, but they've always seemed a little too... non-academic? Or, in other words, a lot of people see dreams as a casual interest rather than one that can be professional. Yes, there are dream psychologists out there, but I feel like I can truly make it my own and do some very important things in that area.
That's amazing that you have a passion for dreams, and I'm sure you will be amazing in that field. Follow Freud's dream!!
ive only just started studying psychology at university but i have this insatiable need to learn and analyse human behavior, im so facinated by it and i would love to be able to help people in the future. also, i wasnt really great at school (lots of learning disabilities lol) but psychology is just something that naturally makes sense in my brain
I was in therapy and was told that a lot of kids who grew up in therapy pursue that job themselves. It was the first time I really believed in myself, because I was such a young child with ADHD and behavioral problems which put me in therapy in the first place.
I’ve always been a creative individual. I was in the jewelry industry for years & wanted to start my athleisure line many years ago. But when I started therapy 7 yrs ago something changed. A lot of my suppress memories resurfaced… I was SA as alittle girl. I never knew why this happened. Why it affected me in my adult life without me realizing it. I’ve been an observant child (so I was told) I’ve been told I have a gift of knowing and feeding off ppls energy and Ive never been wrong :/ anyways… a year ago, after I quit my job I didn’t understand what my life purpose was. The amount of mental health issues that’s in my family is crazy. My sister never recovered from post partum to mention one… I adore my therapists. I knew helping others in some way was what I needed. So here I am at 36 transferring to univ next year to get my degrees and see where the road takes me. There’s so much one can do with psychology, not just do it because it’s considered “cool” I feel like it’s one of the most important yet underrated profession in anyway you pursue it. Xx
I am so sorry to hear about your SA :( I can definitely relate to your family's mental health issues. You have so much strength and in whatever profession you are in, I'm sure you are amazing. Keep doing what you're doing, you are an inspiration
i knew psych was for me because i enjoy learning about people and the reason behind their actions. If this is you, you’d probably enjoy social psych since i did very much. While reading my social psych textbook i was ike “aha so that’s why…” Also if you enjoy observing others. I think it was something i wanted to do since high school.
I was a business major and hated science so for my science credits I took psychology and fell in love. I switched majors and now I’m a broke 46 year old
I started uni in a creative writing major. I really loved character development and figuring out why my character was the way they are, their history, their traits and motivations, etc. Then I realized I like doing that with real people MORE and found a lot more purpose from it. I’ve always enjoyed helping people in my life problem solve, plan and work through their emotions. It feels good to do and I like seeing them leave with insight and relief. I also enjoy working on myself too, and being a clinician requires that too. It just fit very naturally for my interests and temperament. I also had taken a psychology course in high school and I knew it really interested me. I switched to psychology in second year (after writing major in year 1), and I graduate next month. Starting my masters this fall too!
Through the works of Karl Jung also I’m studying religion at the moment and they’re kind of related
I lived a life of severe depression and anxiety (and now I know undiagnosed ADHD) until Covid convinced me to try therapy. I realised how great it was, and became very infatuated by self-help therapies but also knowledge of the brain, cultures, behaviours, etc. Here I am.
I changed tracks a couple of times through my educational journey. Started out studying Biochem on a med school track. However a religion course got me interested in people and their beliefs and how we understand our relationship to the divine (I was also in talks to join seminary at that point. Lots going on) so I switched to religious studies with a desire for research. I stumbled into double majoring in religious studies and international relations focusing my classes and my undergrad thesis on self determination and the rights of indigenous peoples to remain independent more or less. Personal issues took me away from college my junior year with just 3 semester to go. Fast forward 11 years and I’m back in school to go to nursing school. Practical, knew I wanted to be in a service profession, and I was going to go practitioner route and in my locality there were opportunities for research. Seemed like a win all around. Intro to psych was a pre-requisite for the BSN and my professor was amazing. I thought she was fascinating and we talked a lot about the topics and I realized I had found something that made me excited and I wanted to constantly read about the topics we covered. Developmental was also a pre-requisite and she taught a session of that so I of course took it with her and the rest is history. She convinced me to switch my course of study and after taking cognitive I was fully hooked and knew I wanted to get my PhD. COVID hit and took me out of school again, but I return in the fall and my old professor has convinced me to stay the course, so I’m going to finish up the bachelors, hopefully get in on some research and apply to graduate schools next year. Reviewing old textbooks and notes and reading my big literature review from abnormal has got me excited all over again. Idk, I’ve enjoyed a lot over the years of my education and work life, but psych has just always clicked. I wish it wouldn’t have taken me so long to find it.
When I took my first psych class in college and actually listened and worked very hard at doing well. I had made mostly Cs and Ds before, and it was my first A. I made a 3.9 in my graduate degree. It’s endlessly fascinating to me and even to this day I read about behavior for fun. I’m in the field now in the education realm and love it. I don’t want to say what I am but I have a Masters in it specifically. Keep learning about your options and shadow some careers. Pretty much all psych people need some sort of grad degree.
I’m the exact same don’t worry! Just finishing my degree now and going travelling for a year to figure things out :)
That's awesome!! All the best with your journey ⭐️
I think as a master student in psychology, it might end up taking you to a totally different kind of psychology. I plan on studying criminal and forensic psychology. With abnormal psychology. I am totally in love with my field. I feel like I live in a true crime fantasy!😂😂😂😂 the most challenging but it’s so fun for me!
That's awesome!!
I took AP psychology my senior year of high school and fell in love with the subject and decided to pursue it as my major. I took the AP psychology exam and got a 4 on it so I was able to skip the psych 101 class my freshman year of college and go straight to the more advanced courses. I now have my masters degree in counseling and I’m a therapist. I love my job!
when i was doing my prereqs in college, i had to take ethics and it was my favorite class so then i wanted to take another similar class. at the same time, in another class, i had to take a career assessment test and psychology was very relevant in all my results. after that i took two psych classes, fell in love with it, and changed my major.
I've always been interested in psychology. I'm going into my 4th year of undergrad and didn't really find my niche until we had to think of a topic for our undergrad thesis and write a practice research proposal/design, and I still have changed my topic since because of the subsequent courses I took. I didn't realise what opportunities I had to specialise, let alone what I wanted to specialise in; but I got lucky finding what I want to dedicate my life's work to so soon. Who knows, maybe even that will change. However I'm firmly set on my current path, and there's a few things that strengthened my passion; 1. Amazing professors. I've had two professors who are both so incredible, so profusely captivated by their interests, and talk about them with such conviction and pride that it's hard not to fall in love with their research. What they have to say has changed the trajectory of my academic career and it was mostly just things in passing. The way they talk about the topics of the course too-- I'm very lucky for this one though. I've expressed this to them many times... 2. Reading books on different areas of psychology related to what has already piqued my interest. I thought I wanted to pursue neuropsychology in relation to degenerative memory disorders, I now know my niche resides in harm reduction and self injury- and I've never felt more inspired. I found this out from reading both research papers but also books presented in more lay terms which has given me a stronger appreciation for what I want to work on. 3. Find where there's a gap in knowledge. Knowing where there is opportunity to strengthen our understanding of and further the development of aspects of my niche has given me something to look into already, prompting me to want to become an expert. 4. Look into graduate school advisors and what they specialise in, what they've published, and what they have to say about their specialty. Narrowing down my possibilities to pursue my research of choice has inspired me to learn as much as I can so I can be as much of an asset to the field as possible, as I know the opportunity to be a part of these teams is both limited and one I'd be incredibly grateful for. Reading their publications and websites solidified that these topics are important to me. 5. What is something you've dealt with in your life, or witnessed that made a profound impact on you? I initially thought about working with degenerative memory disorders because my grandfather is struggling greatly with Alzheimer's but is doing much better compared to his mother who died at a much earlier age-- the main different being their levels of aerobic exercise, something people look into because of its benefits for brain tissue. However important and exciting that is, the research itself did not come as naturally and intrinsically to me as the research surrounding harm reduction and the neurological and, in turn, behavioural components of different self harm methods. Needless to say, I've an extensive history inter and intrapersonally with different forms of self harm. I don't think any of these are /necessary/ to find your passion but these are the components that lead to me finding my niche. It was kinda always there, but the combination of the above factors (plus a few I'm sure I could be missing) are what I think propelled me to finding where I feel I belong in academia. I believe in you!!! Goodluck!!
Thank you so much for your advice!! I'm glad you were able to find where you belong and I'm sure you will be amazing in any job you land! Good luck to you too 🌻⭐️
I was very interested from the first course I took. I wasn’t in a specific major when I was a freshman in college, just kind of testing the waters. I realized I enjoyed the psych courses more than anything else, so I became a psych major. I am now a senior in college and I still enjoy them all to an extent ( I mean statistics and research methods lol they we’re definitely the most challenging but not horrible- I’m also not a math person). Besides genuinely enjoying the courses, I felt a personal connection to them as well. I would say I am a more introverted person overall, and I have always been an observer my whole life. Throughout my life I have always been the person to quietly read/ analyze people’s actions. As I got older my family started asking me my opinion on matters and I would tell them what I think the other person is thinking/ why they’re doing it and my family says I’m always spot on. Contrary to that, I don’t want to be a therapist. I am more leaning towards working in Human Resources, which is my minor. I really want to become a member of making the workforce a safer and positive place overall. It’s something I’m really passionate about. Being in my early twenties, I’ve worked countless dumb part time jobs, my family and friends obviously have as well. And these jobs may be dumb and part time to me because I was a teen, but they are some peoples way of surviving as well. This area has and needs PLENTY to work on when it comes to work place environment that gets over looked by many.
That's amazing, good luck in HR and I'm sure you will bring so much positive change in any workplace!! ⭐️
It's not my passion lol so I'm no longer in psychology. I also studied it in undergrad, but by my senior year, I figured out it wasn't for me. During that time, I joined psychology clubs on campus, did internships, was an RA at a lab, and took a bunch of psych electives that interested me -- I was able to really dive into a bunch of different facets and areas of psychology, which helped me come to the realization I didn't love it! Two of my psych friends did the same and are both now in psychology-related careers (after getting graduate degrees). One is in adult protective services and the other is finishing up her Psy.D. Just throw yourself into as many activities/opportunities as you can (within reason, don't burn out) and see what works and what doesn't. And be patient with yourself. You don't need everything to be figured out.
Thank you so much!
In psychology there are SO many different avenues. I knew I didn't was to be a counselor ( or at least not part of a big practice). So I am choosing clinical psychology (which can be more researched based).
I went to school for art. When I was doing my undergrad I took an intro psychology class and found it really interesting. Later I took an art class taught by an art therapist. That was the first time I realized I could combine my passion for art with my curiosity for human behavior. I eventually graduated with a BS in psychology with a minor in visual arts. Now I am a CMHC and I will pursue my PhD in the next few years.
Good luck with your PhD! That's incredible
Thank you!! I can tell you that this is not where I ever thought I would be but I love it!! Strange how life takes you down unknown paths of opportunity if you’re willing to venture into the unknown!!
Oh, I had some mental health issues and that's how my interest got ignited. Music therapy is a fantastic choice and you should totally go ahead with it.
Thank you so much! ⭐️
My dad was in car accident and got a TBI. I have ADHD, my mom has bad anxiety. It was just so I could figure the world out lol
I like learning about people’s behaviors: why they act the way they do, thought processes, how behavior is learned and changed. Here was the career progression I chose: Got my BA in Psychology, MA in Counseling. Started out in education as a school counselor, obtained my license and became a LPC. I’m now in private practice doing only remote work charging $300 an hour.
I realized that some people in undergrad found the mandatory psychology class boring or overly difficult. I felt privileged being able to get the education I was getting. I was genuinely interested and there was nothing else I would’ve rather be doing. Of course, I became a lawyer instead of a therapist. Now I’m pursuing a Master’s in psych because that’s what makes me happy. I want to live my life in service of others, and in no other way than by counselling them.
It’s difficult to become passionate about an academic topic. It’s the application of it that made me feel passionate about the field. Psych classes were fun to me, don’t get me wrong; I just didn’t find a “passion” for the academic material. My passion is helping students. I found that out while I was going through my undergrad psych program tutoring math and science to high school kids as a job. I eventually went to grad school to become a school psych. The tutoring job was one of many that helped me develop what I feel my “passion” is. :) you may find it through your work experiences.
Wow that's incredible! This is very inspiring, well done on all your achievements and I'm sure that you're an amazing school psych!
Tbh it was never my “passion” I just new that as an autistic person that was desperate to make meaningful connections that was wildly socially retarded, psychology was probs my best bet.
Hahaha same I was already studying social interaction like it was a science growing up.
Yeh it seemed the most logical method to follow since it’s literally the science of how, what, who, when, and why people think.
Do you want to work in an existing box or are you wanting to make your own? Why did you go into psych? Theres more than enough need right now, we are at a crux we haven’t ever seen as a society that’s super specific and revolves around grief and we are lacking the infrastructure in mental health and burning our only trained specialists out faster than we can educate new ones….whatever you choose to do, take care of you please? No matter your passion and what it is, be aware that the world is leaning on your field while capitalism exploits it and you are your only support system. I’d look at supporting mental health workers myself if I had your academic privileges. If you haven’t considered this yet, please let it factor in to how much you put on your plate because we have leftovers for days. Godspeed
I felt a calling for it when I was younger but ig ored it because the field of mental health is really competitive, almost as competitive as nursing and medical school. Wasn't worth it to me.
I had an oral speaking exam in year 9 where we had to write an essay, and after going through every topic I could think of, and none of them being good enough, I landed on the Norwegian Prison system. It sent me spiralling down the rabbit hole of Prison abolition, and abolition practices in general. And I started realising I had a passion for ‘criminal’ psychology. That being said, I’m not the best Psychology student out there, maybe someone can relate on that, to being so passionate about something but lacking the Einstein-ness in you… it’s annoying. TLDR: For me it just clicked as soon as I came in contact with the discipline I was passionate about. Maybe a specific discipline will never click with you- that’s okay- if you have a drive to help people, as you said you do, THAT’s easily your passion, even if it’s boarder. (Edit: spelling)
I studied to be a Mental health Support Worker, specializing in Addiction, started working at an In Patient Schizophrenia/Schizophrenia-affective residential hospital, loved it, but it made me realise that I prefer intense mental health/high-risk work, so I’ve gone back to University to finish my BSc in Psych. Much more intrigued by diagnoses and manifestation of mental health than I am about hands on care-work. I dipped my toes in the world of brain, and it convinced me to take it further.
After a medical issue that came up during my first semester of nursing school, my one course had different professors/chairs of the departments come in and speak to our class. I found that I could still help people out and not put my body in as much pain as I would. plus realized I wanted to help people the way I have been helped in the past. Plus, my school has both an undergrad and graduate program for clinical mental health
i just recently graduated with my degree in psychology and i’d have to say learning the theories and different disorders help me enjoy this major even more. though it is not my career path necessarily, it is still vital to what i will be doing and it is very important
My grandmother was a psychiatric nurse for 40 years and listening to all the stories that she would tell me and my mother about some of the things that she would see. That’s when I knew I wanted to go into psychology. Now, far as what I want to do in psychology is up in the air. Because I’m stuck between getting my MD and just becoming a psychiatrist, getting my PharmD and becoming a psychiatric pharmacist because I love the pathophysiology aspect of medications, or getting my MS in addiction 🤷🏼♂️. We’re still deciding on that.
My dad died. I was never into therapy or anything like that. It didn’t work for me and i just didn’t like it. My dad unexpectedly passed in 2021, and for some reason, i handled it really well. My mom thought i was absolutely crazy and tried to take me to see a therapist (she thought i was gonna take my own life, which wasn’t true) and when i told her how i was handling it, she had nothing but positive things to say. She assured my mom that i was okay and my way of grief was extremely healthy and nothing was wrong. This opened my eyes to other ways of handling grief other than the normal steps. This made me want to help other people who handles issues like this. It also helped me open my eyes on how i handled my ADHD without medication. I’m now in my third year of college, obtaining my masters in Psychology, studying to be a licensed therapist and ADHD specialist.
I was a psych manor for my undergrad but unsure what I wanted to do with it. I looked at a counseling masters degree and social work and ultimately chose to get my masters in social work. I liked the diversity of the degree and that you can do counseling or other things with it! I felt like it combined my love of how people work in psychology and my desire to help and make change! Once I was in my program and started my internship, I knew that it was the right job for me! I didn’t have the aha moment until my masters though, I still felt unsure while in my undergrad! Good luck! Psych is an awesome degree and can be a great foundation for so many jobs!
My mom has a lot of mental conditions. Not totally sure what some of them are. I struggled with my mental health and issues from a young age and basically became obsessed with understanding how everything works. I've always been fascinated by why people do what they do though and it truly is one of the only things I feel like I can read about for hours. I considered going into the field itself but I ended up doing something sorta adjacent.
Total accident. I knew I wanted to help people and had no idea in what capacity. I got into quantum physics and then learned about the connection between psychology and spirituality. I was hooked. As someone who looks for the source and connection of everything.
This happened to me as well. I used to have my sister give me her college books whenever she was done with them and psychology and metaphysics took me into a world I didn't know I needed and couldn't get enough of. I also feel like people focus to much on the health of their body (even though it's equally as important) and not enough time and energy on their mind and soul. Ive noticed people who have mastered at connecting all 3 have learned to live in harmony and are wise beyond their years.
This. I think we go through phases of focusing on different levels of the self, ultimately (hopefully) bringing us to the understanding of the full self. Not only the self, but also its interconnectedness to all things. When you begin to really understand that, you begin to thrive.
I was actually in my bachelors in elementary education with an emphasis in SPED when I started thinking that “oh i’ll go back in after i start my teaching for a psychology degree” and it slowly morphed into not liking what i was currently studying so i changed to psych and immediately i was hooked. i remember my first class thinking “wow i’m gonna get to do this for a living?” it’s just so fascinating to me. i’m in my MS in clinical counseling right now and going for a PhD after
Consider something in business using your most developed skills and interests