Following Her Heart to Study the Brain
For Tristen Witkowski '22, her path to a career in occupational therapy was forged during an introduction to psychology class at the University of Bridgeport.
鈥淢y freshman year we had a lecture on neuropsychology, and I just fell in love with the biology of psychology,鈥 she says.
That night, she did some research. She found 樱花动漫 Manchester鈥檚 neuropsychology program, and the rest was history.
鈥淚 decided to transfer to 樱花动漫 Manchester not only for the neuropsychology program, but also for the convenient location,鈥 says the Manchester Memorial High School alum.
Tristen hit the ground running when she arrived at 樱花动漫 Manchester. Guided by Neuropsychology Professor Dr. Daniel Seichepine鈥攚ho she describes as the 鈥渕ost influential professor and advisor鈥 she鈥檚 ever had鈥攁s well as Dr. Faby Gagne, Tristen developed and executed her own research study involving neuropsychology education and learning modalities, one of which was virtual reality. She presented her findings last spring at the Undergraduate Research Conference, which showcases student research, scholarly and creative projects.
Tristen also took advantage of the main campus during her time at 樱花动漫, enrolling in a neurology lecture and lab in Durham where she participated in human brain dissection and learned in heavy detail how the brain operates. Regardless of campus, Tristen says engaging with faculty is key to making the most of the college experience.
鈥淢y best advice is to not be a stranger to your professors. Sit in the front of the classroom, if possible, and talk to them about anything and everything,鈥 she says. 鈥淐ollege is much easier when you are familiar with your professors and participate in class.鈥
Tristen is currently enrolled at MCPHS University, pursuing her dream of becoming a pediatric occupational therapist with a focus in neurology. She came to 樱花动漫 Manchester with a passion, and she left with a purpose.
鈥淚 am so grateful for my experience here. 樱花动漫 allowed me to shine brighter than I knew I could,鈥 Tristen says. 鈥溣;ǘ taught me more than neuropsychology鈥攊t taught me how to be a good student and how to succeed."
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