Academics
Professors, Internship, Guide Psych Major's Career Choice
Sonya Thomas '08 came to Washington College confident that she would be able to pursue all of her interests including psychology, creative writing and developing as a student leader.
Originally from upstate New York, Sonya says the small classes and committed faculty she found at Washington College helped her adjust to her first year away from home. "I love my professors; they're dedicated to helping students find their true passion."
Sonya specifically references mathematics professor Louise Amick: "She's one of the most patient, dedicated teachers I know." Amick encouraged her desire to pursue a mathematics minor to complement her major in psychology.
Sonya has found her passion in helping others. In regard to a career choice she says, "I want to have a career with some intrinsic reward, one that is meaningful to me as well as others." Pursuing a concentration in clinical psychology, Sonya landed a summer internship at Broughton Hospital in Morganton, NC, where she was assigned to the psychiatric rehabilitation division for patients suffering from long-term psychiatric illnesses. The internship, funded by the Douglass Cater Society of Junior Fellows, gave her the opportunity to shadow a clinical psychologist, attend weekly lectures on clinical psychopathology, and conduct a case presentation on one of the patients. The experience of being part of a treatment team helped her focus her career goals and understand the importance of proper medication for psychiatric treatment.
Honing her leadership skills, her college activities also reflect her civic-mindedness. She is director of the Center for Black Culture, a peer mentor in the writing center, chair of the SGA's academic affairs committee and campus climate and diversity committee.
After graduation, Sonya will pursue graduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Social Work.
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