Scholarship Essay Entry – Tara K.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
 
The famous ten words that either inspire creative answers from elementary students or silence groups of graduating teens. For me, like many others, it has been a constant struggle trying to define the one desire that will provide happiness for both myself and others. Although it would be amazing to inspire generations of North American athletes like Wayne Gretzky,  reinvigorate the imaginations of American people like Barack Obama, or aid in diminishing stereotypes like Oprah Winfrey, I have learned that life it is not always about being the next celebrity icon. The importance is making a difference with the unique qualities that I possess.
 
Each and everyday we witness human behaviour. Whether we see how individuals deal with stressful situations, react to media influences or juggle expectations, it is clear that each one of us is different. This very realization inspired me to invest my time in psychology. Applying this science to practical problems can greatly improve communications in relationships and better emotional health. I want to start raising awareness for this forthcoming science.
 
By concentrating my time on aspects of social psychology, I can focus on how societal forces are related to behaviour. I will specifically learn to address topics such as prejudice, conformity, aggression and behaviour in groups because these areas are particularly relevant to this generation. The beauty of proceeding with this profession is that I can aid individuals in simple matters related to emotional distress or complex relationships, or I can attempt to regulate serious symptoms of psychological disorders. My choices are endless. As a compassionate person, I see nothing more rewarding. I want to help individuals understand human behaviour so that they can become the best version of themselves. If we all become educated and versed in the knowledge of psychology, it is possible to develop into a better community; a community that understands human difference.
 
In the near future, I want to be a registered psychologist. I simply wish to make a valuable difference. By inspiring others to feel comfortable with their individuality and promoting human variability, I will succeed in bettering aspects of my community. I have discovered that I do not need to be an entrepreneurial Bill Gates or a philanthropic Angelina Jolie as long as I believe that my successes are everlasting in the people I encounter. As today's society is clustered with varying pressures and standards, it would be remarkably fulfilling to aid in the human understanding of one another.