In my senior year in high school, I wanted to take some classes that I would enjoy and learn a lot at the same time. Since psychology is my passion and I have done an immersion course at Illinois Institute of Technology the summer before senior year, I decided to take the AP Psychology class. I wanted to explore various topics related to it. As my first day approached, I was excited for the start of the school year, meeting new friends, and seeing what all my classes (especially my AP Psychology class) would be like.
For the first few days we did basic get-to-know-you activities. As we went into our second week, we started to dive into some material. We are given packets with various Modules in them which follow along with textbook readings. At first, I was expecting to not enjoy reading the textbook because taking notes every day gets boring and repetitive rather quickly for me. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I realized I actually liked reading about psychology. The textbook is written in a way that is very easy to understand and is very interesting as well.
In the first few classes, we have learned about the different methods followed in psychology, keywords, and professions related to psychology. I enjoy reading about the different areas of psychology and was surprised at how many jobs a psychology degree applies to. I could work in a business advising people on how to market to consumers, or I could be a clinical psychologist where I help people one-on-one. I find it very interesting that psychology can help many other professions as well.
In class, we go over our reading and homework from the previous night, but we also do partner or group activities which are fun. We get to read about hypothetical situations and decide what type of psychology these scenarios fit into. Also, we get to analyze people’s actions and determine what type of psychologist would be the best fit for them. Being able to do other activities in class helps me to stay focused and enjoy the material being taught by both the teacher and our textbook.
Throughout this year, we will be watching movies and doing various projects centered around psychology in this class. As it is still the beginning of the year, we are focusing on the basics. I look forward to more involved projects and cannot wait to further my understanding of psychology through this class.
One Response
Dear Rebecca, I must comment that your interest is a refreshingly special one, and the intent is noble. Psychology involves providing help, and practising it means giving your time to others for healing. I believe that your choice of study is commendable.
As a volunteer in an NGO that rehabilitates children, I am aware of the many activities that create a lasting impact on young minds. These activities include extensive learning and counselling programs in schools and colleges, with a curriculum that goes well beyond the scope of classroom sessions. Topics such as adolescent education, mental health, hygiene, and disease awareness (they include facts, myths, control, and treatment) are crucial in today’s world. Reaching out to children, or as you put it, specializing in paediatric psychology means a lot, and educating young minds is like providing advanced social security.
Whether or not you choose psychology for a definitive healthcare career, I admire your courage and conviction in pursuing it during these formative years. Cheers!