Since my college years, I was intrigued by psychology.  In my undergraduate years, I read psychology, thereby, exposing me to the richness of human life.  I learnt to be more tolerant in the diversity of life and also acquired a “learnt empathy” which I deem to be more enriching than basic empathy.  The “learnt empathy” that I acquired came about when I was thrown into a culture different from my sheltered life.  I consider it a rich and enriching experience as I received first-hand experience on the turmoil of life and how one’s state of mind and emotions can affect one’s behavior, attitude, and thinking.  Having faced the stresses of adapting oneself to a new environment, I have gained an understanding and insight into how the human mind works under stress and how the “human heart” reacts in such situations.  I was fortunate to pull through with greater ambitions.  The experience has brought me closer to a patient’s experience and with this experience, I hope to be able to help others who face greater needs.

 

Despite my personal struggles, my education benefited me.  I had several opportunities to work within the dynamics of differing personalities interacting in varying situations.  The subjects in my training provided an overall understanding of how various dynamics at an individual, organizational, societal and global level can affect or motivate different individuals.  Management courses contributed to my understanding of the working environment at an organizational level.  On the other hand, sociological courses resulted in a greater sensitivity to issues of race, disabilities and the like.  In counseling, techniques of interviewing and therapy were explored.  Through role-playing exercises in which we put ourselves in the shoes of a ‘patient’, we learnt to empathize better both as a counselor and person.  I obtained further knowledge on the importance of interviewing style, especially in children and eyewitness testimony.  Through designing interviews and surveys, I learnt their usefulness and the importance in phrasing questions.  On a developmental level, I learnt about (pervasive) development disorders and special needs.  I gained a further and deeper understanding about the development of these children (academically, socially, etc.).  Life-span development and clinical issues of normal, special needs and disorder groups were also covered.  Nevertheless, I believe that learning about the psychology of children is essential to comprehending people as many psychologists have emphasized the “child within us” that we blossom from, or the id that never grows up or which some of us regress to in old age. Furthermore, I completed my placement with a special school, which offered me a chance in understanding children with autism more directly.

 

From my previous learning and limited yet significant working experience, I have gained an insightful perspective in working with individuals facing various problems.  Moreover, my training has developed analytical skills, investigative skills, skills in writing reports, and identifying problems.  During my summer vacations, I was committed in some useful work experience.  I worked with people who have various family, occupational and/or social problem(s).  I listened to patients’ problems, wrote reports, and provided analysis for my seniors.  I also participated in counseling and training sessions provided by my seniors for the patients and staff.  I benefited greatly from the multi-disciplinary meetings held.  My first real job was with the National Council of Social Service.  The job provided me with a macro view on social services.  I learnt how the system operates and the enhancement of service standards.  I grasped how various services complement one another and work together hand in hand to provide resources for the people in the community.

 

I have a keen interest in people.  During my undergraduate years, I joined societies and attended their social activities and outings. I also participated in volunteer work.

 

I am excited and enthusiastic to embark on a journey into discovering and exploring more in-depth into the human state of mind, emotions and driving and affecting factors.  More importantly, I desire to be equipped with the necessary skills to aid people in need of bringing them out of their predicament.  I believe this course, coupled with my previous training and exposure will bring me to greater heights and equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge in my future work with special people.