Choosing is the Hardest Part by Jennifer

Choosing is the Hardest Part by Jennifer - April 2019 Scholarship Essay

The biggest challenge I am facing academically is simply choosing a field of study. I am a non-traditional student currently working full-time as a medical assistant. I am a mother, wife, and colleague. I have considered returning to school for career advancement. Options for career advancement within the collegiate level would be registered nurse. Other options include phlebotomy or licensed practical nurse. Pursuing an education in these fields would allow me to be more knowledgeable in my current position. I would be promoted to a higher pay bracket and even possibly working different shifts and hospital locations. Although I care deeply for patients and this job, this field of study is not something I am truly passionate. I have discovered that I am truly passionate about Counseling Psychology.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a Minor in Counseling. The classes I took for my minor have always intrigued me. In addition, I suffer from Major Depressive Disorder and I have witnessed first-hand the impact that therapists and counselors have on individuals with Mental Health disorders. The care, compassion, and theory that they apply to help stabilize and reintegrate mental health sufferers is immeasurable. One of these techniques is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
CBT is the most researched form of psychotherapy. It is a therapy that helps individuals to stop negative self-talk and replace those thoughts with more helpful thoughts or words. I have personal experience in using this therapy and found it to be helpful in my daily struggles of negative self-talk/worth. I hope to learn new forms of psychotherapy and mental training. And just like that I have made my decision! A graduate degree in Counseling Psychology is what I will be pursuing. Interestingly enough, just simply writing about my two interests has shown me my decision!