I decided to enroll in college because I have always wanted to build a career helping families. Throughout high school, I attended a vocational school that prepared me for a career in the human services field and strengthened my passion for psychology and social work. Since graduating from Elms, I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) while working as a Behavioral Technician.
I chose to pursue higher education because my career goal is to work with children in settings such as Child Protective Services, schools, or mental health agencies. I am particularly interested in using creative approaches, such as art therapy, to help individuals express emotions they may not be able to put into words. My professional goal is to become a counselor/therapist who provides families with the support, advocacy, and resources they need to thrive.
Coming from a very large high school, I often felt like just another student in a crowd. When I first toured Elms, I noticed how welcoming and supportive everyone was. From the admissions staff to my tour guide, who later became one of my friends, I felt genuinely seen and valued. When I returned to campus, I was shocked that the staff remembered my name; it confirmed that Elms was a place where students are treated as individuals rather than just numbers.
One of the things I appreciated most was how well the coursework connected to my career goals. With my advisor’s help, I chose classes that aligned with my interests and helped me explore different career paths. Many of these courses directly contributed to the work I do today. In particular, my Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) course provided me with the knowledge and preparation needed to earn my certification and begin working as a Behavioral Technician. The courses in my program also helped me realize that I want to do more than research.
“With the help of my advisor, I was able to pick classes that aligned with my interests and helped me explore different career paths. Many of these courses directly contributed to the work I do today. In particular, my Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) course provided me with the knowledge and preparation needed to earn my certification and work as a Behavioral Technician while pursuing my MSW.”
– Makayla Alvarado ‘26
For most of my college experience, I worked as a student ambassador, representing the school and interacting with prospective students and their families. This role helped me strengthen my communication skills and become more confident in professional settings.
As a commuter student, I made a conscious effort to be involved on campus to get the full college experience I wanted, and I don’t regret that decision at all. These activities helped me come out of my shell, become more confident, and feel more comfortable speaking up and expressing myself.
I also participated in the Experiential Learning program for the past three years, and it was a major part of my time at Elms. I chose to continue participating in it throughout most of my time at Elms because I genuinely enjoyed the research process and hands-on learning.
Looking back, I am very pleased that I attended Elms. It truly became a home to me and a safe place where I always felt supported and able to succeed. I received the resources and encouragement I needed to stay on track academically while also growing as a person.
Overall, my experience at Elms has exceeded my expectations. It provided the balance I hoped for between academic challenge, personal growth, and important experiences.
Psychology Major, Art Minor
Currently pursuing a Master’s of Social Work (MSW)