My Journey
I wanted to be a psychologist for years.
In preparation for a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I interned at a Top 10 psychiatric hospital, received over $7K in grants and research awards, conducted three independent research projects, worked as a part-time lab manager, started a psychology honors thesis, and presented my work across the country.
Yeah, I know.
Taken at the Stanford Research Conference, where I was awarded Best Poster for Social Science. Photo by Tanvi Kosuri.
Taken at the Longhorn Research Poster Session, where I was awarded 1st place in Poster Presentation. Photo by Ashley Humphries.
Showered with praise and accolades for my picture-perfect track to graduate school, I was near the finish line.
As my senior year crept closer, something didn’t feel quite right.
I decided to take time off to travel and reflect.
With physical and mental distance from my scholarly life, I realized it wasn’t science that I loved but telling a story about science.
At the center of all my research endeavors was an intrinsic desire to find, craft, and present narratives.
Except, I wasn’t completely changing course. I was well into my Rhetoric & Writing degree, edited student work as a Writing Fellow for two years, and won numerous essay competitions. Change isn’t easy, but I wasn’t starting from ground zero. We rarely do.
And that realization was petrifying. I’d dedicated three formative years to research. How could I possibly pivot — and do it well?
Breathe, I remind myself daily. You are nothing if not tenacious.
I thanked my research mentors, had difficult conversations with family, and said goodbye to old dreams.
I’ve fallen deeper in love with my new life. Every day, I write diverse works, edit student essays, and strengthen my communication skills.
Changing course isn’t easy, and it isn’t supposed to be. The process is sometimes grueling, but I’m more fulfilled than ever before. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Then, I launched into my writing. I started as a content writer, joined three university publications, and spoke with any copywriter or communications professional who would give me 15 minutes of their day.
This is my story, and I’m just getting started.
A creative personal account of my pivot can be found here.
A special thank you to my research mentor Zachary Bretton and Rhetoric & Writing professor Annie Hill for believing in me, even when I didn’t. You gift me hope on my darkest days, and I’m endlessly grateful.