Learning from Experience Department of
Psychological Science n Bachelor n Minors:
of Science in Psychology
psychology and child and family studies
What will I study? Lander’s broad psychology curriculum is designed to walk students through the science of psychology, from its history and methods to current research techniques. Students examine the current theories underlying areas such as personality and human development, as well as other major issues of the field. Students then put their skills into practice by volunteering with local social service agencies.
Where can I use my degree? Psychology majors have a number of options available after graduation, from advanced study and research at graduate schools to careers in public affairs, education, business, sales and service industries. They work as employment counselors, correction counselor trainees, interviewers, personnel analysts, probation officers and writers. Others are involved with health care teams, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, pain clinics, rehabilitation facilities, and community health and mental health centers. The choices are diverse and extensive.
Are there opportunities on campus? Psychology majors at Lander have many opportunities to get involved on campus, including joining Psi Chi, a national honor society for psychology students, or the Psychology Club. Students can also participate in the state psychological association’s academic day and annual conference.
Ashton Tatum Fall 2010 Graduate Early Childhood Education While finishing up her final semester at Lander, Ashton Tatum, a Fall 2010 graduate in early childhood education, wanted to add a little bit to her university experience. She enrolled in the EYE Program because she thought that it would provide her “with the best opportunity to become a better professional and person.” As an early childhood education major, she was interested in learning more about special needs students. She chose to volunteer with Burton Center, a local nonprofit governmental agency providing services for people with disabilities and special needs. The Lander University Equestrian Center is located on the campus of Burton Center and offers riding and equestrian therapy programs for Burton Center consumers. As part of her EYE experience, Tatum spent 30 hours assisting with the center’s therapeutic riding and hippotherapy programs. Throughout her time as a volunteer, Tatum was able to see how her experiences related to each of the key components of the EYE Program, such as communication, problem solving and professionalism. “Every day, I went home knowing something I did not previously know. Most importantly, I learned my true passion is to work with children. Studying to be a teacher can be overwhelming and demanding, but this experience has taught me that, regardless of the hardships, the rewards are much greater.”
Ryan Hewitt Mass Communication and Theatre Major Mass communication and theatre major Ryan Hewitt has realized the importance of not only doing well in the classroom, but also in activities related to his field of study. As a student in the theatre emphasis, he has had the opportunity to work on four theatrical productions at Lander, which has allowed him to apply what he has learned in the classroom to reallife experiences. “The EYE Program is a good way to get out and gain experience in your own field of study while receiving credit based on your work,” Hewitt said. Students who successfully complete the required number of hours in EYE-approved programs are eligible to receive the Golden EYE Award at graduation – something Hewitt hopes to achieve. “It would show my potential employers that not only am I skilled in line memorization and writing, but that I’ve also gained valuable experience by putting what I’ve learned into practice.” 15