Leading up to Winter Commencement, we’re asking some of our graduates to tell us about their experience as Greyhounds and where their journey will lead them next. Meet December 2022 graduate Andre Semenchuk who will receive a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Application of Psychology in Clinical and Counseling Settings later this month!
Why did you to study psychology?
Given the right resources at the right time, people can accomplish almost anything. I want to facilitate people discovering their path, overcoming challenges, and leading full and contented lives.
Why did you choose to study psychology at UIndy?
I chose to study at UIndy because of the small class sizes and the relationships with internship sites. Previously, I attended a large school with classes that sometimes had 200 students in one room. I didn’t feel I was gaining much from my education there; it felt like I was attending a bunch of seminars rather than critically engaging in discussions with peers and professors.
What is one of your favorite memories from your time at UIndy?
I mostly recall the many different conversations I had with classmates and professors. It has been a breath of fresh air to have honest and intellectually-challenging discussions with many interesting and open-minded people.
Are there any faculty or staff members who have significantly impacted your time at UIndy? If so, who are they and how did they influence you?
Dr. Michael Poulakis, Assistant Professor and Director of Office of Hellenic Studies, has been incredibly kind and helped me immensely with his knowledge. From being in his classes, and working with him during a research practicum, I have a better grasp of where I want to go and how I will become a part of the mental health field and community. He has been a great mentor to me, and I can’t imagine how difficult figuring out my next moves would have been without him.
Dr. MJ Loria, Assistant Professor of Psychological Sciences, showed me that I don’t need to be so intimidated by academia. They said something that stuck with me, “Just because someone has more letters after their name, doesn’t mean that they are any better than you; they have just spent a little more time learning about the subject that interests you.” I was intimidated by the concept of graduate school and worried it might not work out for me. Through conversations with Dr. Loria, I realized that I can accomplish my goals and will fit in in graduate school.”
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?
Try out a bunch of different things, and see what feels right. Just because you have decided on a path doesn’t mean you can’t take a few turns along the way.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue my education into graduate school. I want to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology.
How did the Psychology program at UIndy prepare you for your next steps?
Most significantly, Dr. Katie Boucher’s capstone class has given me a little taste of the kind of work that I will be doing in graduate school. While I know the work will have a considerable step up in difficulty, I will not be completely blindsided.
