Olivia Sheehan is a student in the undergraduate child psychology program in the Institute of Child Development (ICD). Below, Sheehan illustrates her passion for child development and how her experiences in ICD will help her reach her career goals after graduation.
What made you want to study child psychology or early childhood?
Beginning in high school, I had always been fascinated with psychology. I had also always been told I possess the skills commonly attributed to a therapist; compassionate, empathetic, patient listener, etc. It wasn’t until I spent a summer as a camp counselor that I knew I had to work with kids. I saw first-hand a need, and recognized I had the skills and ability to help. After transferring here in order to major in child psychology, I only continued to get more confident in my choice to work with children.
What kind of research are you involved in?
I am involved with Dr. Koenig’s Early Language and Experience Lab. Specifically, I have been working on a study alongside graduate students that’s testing the learning preferences of infants.
What do you find most interesting about child development?
Throughout all of my classes, I have always found the interaction/argument between nature and nurture the most interesting. My career goal specifically, revolves around the notion that the environment and social interactions can have a profound effect on development. I always enjoy learning about studies that support and deter my opinions.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I plan to earn a master’s degree in social work after I graduate. My goal is to increase protective factors amongst youth that have experienced early childhood adversity, specifically foster children.
How would you describe your experience at ICD?
I cannot stress enough how glad I am to have transferred here and into this program. Psychology was a good fit for me as well, but had I not been exposed to these classes I think it would have taken me a long time to realize my true passion. ICD has provided me with a range of knowledge in the developmental field, along with exposure/experience to lab and clinical work.
