Clinical Psychology PHD Personal Statement

Personal Statement Clinical Psychology PHD

____ University is my first choice among Ph.D. programs in Clinical Psychology for several reasons, both professional and personal, mostly the sheer excellence of your program and the fact that it is where I feel I am the best fit given my intellectual interests and career aspirations.

I am an Afro-Latina woman born in the Bronx, NY, and raised in the upstate Orange County area. I have always been thankful for both. I am proud to have been born in the Bronx because this affirms my working-class roots. Spending my childhood upstate, however, made it incredibly idyllic and tranquil. Growing up, I enjoyed the sounds of nature rather than the traffic.

I spent nine years in the US Navy and received an honorable discharge. I saw much of the world, including the Middle East, the Persian Gulf, Palestine, Greece, Crete, Turkey, Oman, Jebel Ali, Dubai, Bahrain, France, and Jerusalem. In addition to two Good Conduct and four Achievement medals, I was awarded the Navy Sailor of the Quarter Award three times. My most prized medal, however, is Navy Instructor of the Year. My travels and military experience have helped me develop a keen appreciation for diversity, especially in the workplace.

I graduated Cum Laude with my BA in Psychology from Columbia College of Missouri over the course of 5 years, most of which I was deployed. I have also taken courses online that I have found very helpful in preparation for graduate school in Psychology. I have a relentless spirit for studying how to help others discover a life of purpose within themselves. My grandfather is Mexican, and I visited him in Mexico on lengthy visits over the years. It was there that I learned Spanish. Speaking Spanish is something that I will always work to improve because it is so close to my heart and the most salient aspect of my cultural identity.

I assumed extensive responsibility in the Navy, serving as a Command Fitness Leader, and coaching those struggling to meet physical fitness ability and weight standards. I also served as a Command Resilience Team Member, conducting analyses, interviews, and discussions on equal opportunity issues within the naval learning centers. Finally, I served as the fund drive coordinator and operated the Navy & Marine Corps Relief Society Thrift Store.

My greatest joy comes as a volunteer. I have served as a Big Brother Big Sister Mentor, served food at the Food Pantry, and maintained the gardens at the Hermitage Museum. I adore multidimensional photography, reading, art, music, outdoor activities, and family time. After earning my PHD at ____ University, I hope to join the team of psychologists at the VA/____.

I plan to become an active and passionate advocate of progressive social justice policies, mainly as they apply to my fellow veterans. If accepted to the program, I will have the profound privilege of developing practitioner-scientist skills needed to practice psychology in culturally sensitive ways focused primarily on veterans from underserved backgrounds with mental health challenges.

I look forward to assisting with research undertaken at the institutions with which I am associated. I am particularly passionate about global health, trauma care, and mental health outreach. I dream of someday starting private practice in my underserved community.

Thank you for considering my application.

Clinical Psychology PHD Personal Statement