¶ … Lead Independent and Fulfilling Lives For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a psychologist. Every academic success I have achieved thus far has been a step in the journey toward my ultimate goal. As a professional, clinical psychologist, I would advocate for my patients and help them improve their life in all dimensions. Psychologists not only help patients alleviate their suffering; they also help them overcome serious limitations and become the very best versions of themselves. My desire to pursue clinical psychology stems from my belief that we are all unique and therefore there exist a multitude of solutions to address issues related to mental and behavioral health. I seek to one day develop a practice built on compassion and non-judgmental support. I truly believe I can best serve my patients in an atmosphere of mutual respect, understanding, and encouragement. However, in order to achieve this goal, I feel it is important to continue my studies. As highlighted by the Executive Committee of the APA, professional competence to render quality clinical services to children, youth, and families is intrinsically related to training, continuing education and reevaluation to assure the maintenance of that competence" (Roberts, 1982). Thus, an advanced degree and licensure in clinical psychology will offer me the best chances of improving my ability to be of service to others.

In __, I graduated from __ with a degree in ____. I am immensely grateful, not only for an extraordinary education, but for the immense personal growth...

I am completely fascinated by the study of psychology and feel that my education and life experiences have laid the framework for my decision to advance my skills in this field. My career choice has been solidly defined at this point in my life. I am certain that clinical psychology, with its academic rigor and commitment to assisting patients in their own personal growth, is indeed the perfect field for me.
My aspiration to advance my knowledge in clinical psychology also stems from something very dear to me. For many years I have been working to cultivate and expand Faith at Work, Inc., a program offering full life skill training to young girls aged 10-18 who have been placed into group homes or foster care by order of the state. These young women are at critical cross roads in life. Many have come from neglectful or abusive backgrounds, and all are in need of guidance, support, nurturing, job readiness and independent living skills. Research findings indicate that children and youth exposed to maltreatment or violence in their homes and neighborhoods are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior or enter the criminal justice system (Litrownik, 2003). Federal legislation often intervenes to protect these children by using group homes and foster care until a suitable and stable family environment can be located. In many ways this is a band-aid solution. Without proper and personalized intervention, many of these young girls will inevitably become casualties of the system.

Faith at Work, Inc. seeks to serve as a refuge…