Major: Psychology
Minor: Sociology
What is your current position/career?
Admissions Assistant at Loyola Law School in the JD Office of Admissions
How did Cal Lutheran and/or your psychology program set you up for success in this position/career?
Cal Lutheran University and its psychology program set me up for success in my career through a blend of academic rigor and practical experience. A significant influence was Edward Kang, who mentored me during my time as a Career Services Lead Student Assistant. He saw potential in me and entrusted me with responsibilities typically reserved for graduate students, such as conducting peer resume reviews weekly. Under his guidance, I was allowed to run tabling events and deliver presentations for students on campus. His belief in my abilities pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and strive for excellence. Edward’s dedication to helping every individual who walked through the Career Services door, regardless of his workload, served as an inspiring example of commitment and compassion.
I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Jodie Kocur, who played a pivotal role in my career development by facilitating invaluable internship opportunities. Recognizing a significant inequity, Dr. Kocur developed a program to assist students on the Autism Spectrum in transitioning into college and graciously allowed me to join her team. During my internship as a College Transition Program Advising Intern, I gained hands-on experience counseling and mentoring high school students for the first time, which ultimately ignited my passion for school counseling. Dr. Kocur’s unwavering passion for teaching and the work she did was always inspiring. I frequently sought her support and guidance when I felt uncertain about myself or my career path. Her willingness to provide me with sound advice and compassion has been invaluable.
Dr. Kocur’s and Edward’s mentorship significantly contributed to my professional growth and readiness for a career in school counseling.
How did your minor aid you in your path and studies?
Minoring in sociology significantly aided me in my studies and career path by providing a deeper understanding of society and its impact on individuals’ lives. I chose this minor because I recognized that the environment plays a crucial role in mental health, and I wanted to gain insights into the social factors that influence behavior and well-being. Pursuing a minor forced me to take courses I wouldn’t have initially chosen, broadening my perspective and enriching my education.
Why did you choose your minor?
One of the most impactful courses I took was Death and Dying taught by Professor Heather Anderson. Initially, I didn’t find the topic particularly interesting, but Professor Anderson’s magical way of teaching transformed it into my favorite class. Her ability to engage the entire class and create an atmosphere where we felt comfortable being vulnerable was truly inspiring. Ironically, for a course about death, she made me want to live a good life. Her vulnerability and the safe space she created in the classroom had a profound impact on me, making me appreciate the importance of living fully and authentically. This experience, along with the overall insights gained from my sociology minor, has been invaluable in shaping my approach to school counseling and understanding the complex interplay between individual and societal factors.