Student Spotlight: Corinne Johnson

Meet Corinne from Pembroke, MA. She’s a senior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Education, and is working to complete the Developmental Disabilities and Human Services specialization and earn the Social Work and Social Welfare certificate. 

In addition to her supportive parents and sisters, one of the most influential figures in Corinne’s life has been her grandfather. “His commitment to helping others has been key for me,” she recalled. “As a teacher, he was dedicated to providing individualized attention to his students, which was something he missed during his own schooling. His example has taught me the value of service and led me to realize how much I want to help others.”  

Taking an AP Psychology course during her senior year of high school sparked a deep interest, but Corinne felt hesitant to declare a major in it. Once she got to the College of Natural Sciences (CNS), however, she started to see the possibilities: “I knew Psychology was perfect for me, with so many options to explore different branches.” Since being here, the supportive members of the CNS advising team have been crucial. “The advisors are both knowledgeable and committed to student success, and they are always happy to discuss anything with you.” 

Of the many classes Corinne has taken, one of her favorites has been Community Service Learning (PSYCH 191M) with Ashley Woodman. This is a community-service learning course where students provide in-home respite care to families raising a child, adolescent, or adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities. “I took this course in the fall and have since continued with the family for internship credit,” she explained. “I have formed an incredible bond and gained an incredible learning experience.” This experience inspired her to pursue the Developmental Disabilities and Human Services specialization. Corinne has also greatly enjoyed Introductory Psychology (PSYCH 100) with Tammy Rahhal and Adult Psychopathology (PSYCH 380) with Carolyn Davies. 

Corinne works at the W.E.B. Du Bois Library as a building monitor student assistant. “I sit at the information desk, which is exciting because I get the chance to help students discover new things about the library or ways to find books and online resources,” she expressed. “One of my favorite parts of the job is when prospective students are visiting, and they ask where they should visit in the library, or campus-related questions. I’ve had conversations with students considering coming here for Psychology, which always makes me excited to share how good the professors and classes are and how there are so many opportunities within the major, like labs, research, teaching assistantships, etc.” 

During her time on campus, Corinne has been involved with Communities Against Cancer and CHAARG, a network of college chapters that offer fun and diverse workouts for women. 

Looking to the future, Corinne wants to get a master’s degree in either clinical psychology or social work. Her time at CNS has helped her to realize that she enjoys working with kids and improving their development. “I could see myself in a school setting or in a one-on-one setting in therapy,” she postulated. “I’m mostly just excited to continue exploring and see what works best for me.”