Engaged Learning

Why I Love My Major: Psychology

by Claire Jacobs ’21, USF News

Want to help others but not sure where to start? Alli Hawk ’21 talks about how psychology could be the right place for you.

Why did you want to be a psychology major?

I always knew I wanted to be a therapist, so psychology seemed to be the best way to get there. Therapy has been important in my life and I want to provide that experience for others.

What's been the best part so far?

The relationships I’ve had with professors. I’ve been welcomed into so many office hours; the psychology professors at USF have made me feel so comfortable. Often I’m able to talk with my professors about life and other personal things not related to class.

How did you realize this was the right path for you?

I realized it after learning from a really challenging class. As a psychology major you have to take a class called Writing in Psychology. For me, it was overwhelming and sometimes a little miserable. After the class ended I conducted research and found myself having to do psychology writing again. But this time when I sat down to write, it came naturally.

What would you tell an incoming first-year psychology major?

It’s OK if you’re pursuing psychology because you're not sure what you want to do. I’ve seen a lot of people do that. So many students end up finding their place here because psychology gives you the opportunity to use both sides of your brain. The combination of empathy and science is really special.

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