This course reestablished my desire to learn the field of psychology, with coursework that included the texts of Erik Erikson, Sigmund Freud, and many others. This coursework further ignited in me a passion for psychology, and pushed me to become active in the school community. I became involved in the “Active Minds” club, which aims to change negative perceptions of mental health disorders. Participation in “Active Minds”, as well as several on-campus workshops has helped me become a productive member of the El Camino Community. The workshops I’ve taken advantage of have assisted me greatly and allowed me to help my peers in a way that is very rewarding. These workshops not only helped prepare me for my major, they are also integral to success in a college atmosphere. At the end of my second semester at El Camino I was awarded a scholar’s foundation scholarship, which I applied for using skills that I learned in a campus workshop. My professional goals are directly connected to my major. I plan on majoring in psychology, pursuing a graduates degree, and becoming a psychologist. The most effective way for me to influence others’ lives in a positive way is to be in direct contact with them, through therapy or research, which is my ultimate …show more content…
It felt like the longest, most painful flu. Not only did I feel incredibly weak physically, I was emotionally and mentally drained by not knowing why I was so sick. The devastating diagnosis of the autoimmune disease Lupus was heartbreaking. I felt beside myself, like the doctor was speaking to me inside of a dream. But I did not wake up. This was my new reality. It has been one of the biggest obstacles I have had to overcome in my life. My immediate treatment involved trying new medications that came with horrible side effects. In addition, this brought financial trouble by having to pay for medications and specialists that my family could barely afford. Maintaining a positive attitude was essential, and it created an atmosphere for me to be able to overcome my hardships. While studying at home and fighting through feelings of doubt, I maintained my grades and graduated with my class. Accepting my high school diploma was proof that I was capable of doing anything I put my mind to. I was determined to continue to overcome the challenges within myself and