Connecting Long-Term Career Plans to Program of Study
My chosen degree program is a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology, which focuses on understanding human behavior, thought processes, and emotions. This program provides a foundational understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and behavioral principles. It qualifies me for entry-level positions in various fields, such as human resources, counseling, and healthcare. Moreover, it serves as a stepping stone toward advanced studies in psychology, such as a master's or doctoral degree, which are necessary for more specialized roles like clinical psychologist or counselor. My long-term career goal is to become a licensed clinical psychologist, working with individuals to address mental health issues.
Technology is becoming increasingly integrated into psychology, from teletherapy to the use of AI in behavioral research. As technology advances, I see it playing a significant role in my career, particularly in making mental health services more accessible through online platforms. This aligns with trends in the psychology field, where digital tools are used for assessments and virtual treatment sessions (Dukach, 2022, November 7). Leveraging technology in practice will allow me to reach a broader range of clients, ensuring that psychological services are available to underserved populations.
After volunteering at a crisis center during high school, I realized I wanted to pursue psychology. Helping others through difficult emotional experiences showed me the importance of mental health support. This experience and an early interest in understanding why people behave the way they do influenced my decision to pursue psychology. Additionally, I chose this field because of the growing demand for mental health professionals, particularly as awareness of mental health issues increases globally (Van Heerden et al., 2023).
Compared to other fields, psychology stands out to me because of its direct impact on individuals' well-being and its versatility across different industries. Whether working in healthcare, education, or business, psychology provides a framework for understanding human behavior, which is critical in almost any career path.
References
Dukach, D. (2022, November 7). Research Roundup: How Technology Is Transforming Work. https://hbr.org/2022/11/research-roundup-how-technology-is-transforming-work
Van Heerden, A. C., Pozuelo, J. R., & Kohrt, B. A. (2023). Global mental health services and the impact of artificial intelligencepowered large language models. JAMA psychiatry, 80(7), 662-664.
