Faith Dillingham: Personal Statement

I remember career days in elementary school, where we had to come dressed as the profession
we wanted to be when we grew up. My profession changed a few times over the years until I
reached eighth grade. It might seem odd for a thirteen-year-old girl to know that when she grows
up, she wants to be a psychologist, but it suited me. My love for the field has grown with each
passing year. My parents split up the summer of my sixth-grade year, their divorce finalized
when I was in eighth grade. I suffered from chronic depression and was forced to see a
professional as well as the school guidance counselor. It was in these sessions where it all
became clear to me that this is what I wanted to be in life. Seeing the other students my age,
hearing their personal struggles, and how the guidance counselor was able to help them made me
want to make sure every person in life feels that they have someone they can rely on through
their struggles. The seed was always there but it was watered more and more over time. Looking
back on things now it makes sense that this is the path I chose. My family dubbed me the
peacemaker of the clan ever since I was a young child. I am fascinated by the way that people are
and find myself constantly studying others as well as myself. I have always tried to help as many
people as I can who are struggling in life by being there for them and giving them advice.

Currently, I am a student at State College of Florida: Manatee-Sarasota, pursuing an Associate of

Arts degree. I look forward to my courses that will give me a better insight into the human mind
and ways of helping those with a variety of different issues. I am currently taking time off from
work so that I am better able to focus on my classes as well as my family. I chaperone my
children’s field trips that they go on with their classes and volunteer for their events, such as,
Wonderland Shoppe.

I plan to continue to build my achievements and awards, volunteer work, and skill set to
becoming a psychologist. After obtaining my associates degree I plan to continue on with my
education so that I can achieve my doctorate. If in the future an internship opportunity presents
itself, I will gladly take it. I might take some time off from school after obtaining my masters so
that I can get some work experience as a guidance counselor or continue school part time while
working. Ultimately, I hope to work in a private practice or School, where I will be able to help
others in their lives. I am excited about this career and look forward to my future in it.