A journey into the human mind
Throughout my University of studying psychology, I have developed a rich and passionate love for the human mind. My Bachelor’s in Child Psychology has prepared me well for further pursuit of the subject. I have undertaken comprehensive study of various aspects of human mind and behaviour in a wide range of difficulties from mild conditions such as depression, anxiety, antisocial personality disorder, severe developmental disorders, to more complicated mental disorders such as Schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease.
After completing my undergraduate degree, I found that my interest in behavioral, emotional, and cognitive disorders cannot be separated from my life. I further pursued my studies by completing a master’s degree in Neuroscience at Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) at McGill University. My master’s project was about assessing domain-specific cognitive impairment in the geriatric population including study of normal elderly cognitive function, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia. Through this, I have become familiar with diagnostic information for geriatric cognitive disorders. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to observe and contribute to the administration of neuropsychological assessments. Much of this work involved working closely with a supervising clinical psychologist and allowed me to have direct interactions with patients. Through this wealth of educational experience and opportunity, I have gained knowledge in the field of cognitive disorders and developed the skills necessary to conduct clinical research. My work experience expands to clinical research evaluation, and statistical analysis field as well as writing on different psychological topics for scientific magazines. Through my multiple occupations, I have had a chance of working with children and adults with mental, emotional, and social difficulties (i.e. Autism, ADHD, Nicotine Anonymous). These experiences have improved my skills in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and decision-making.
Through the course of my education and work experience I found that the human being is more than a brain (neurons and cells), and we are not able to study humans without considering his/her personality, emotion, past experiences and culture. On the other hand, there are still many gaps in human studies that neuroscience and psychology cannot fill, effects of past human experiences and unconscious mind on behavior. My interest to unconscious mind and its critical influence on human emotions behavior has been increased by studying Sigmund Freud’s and Melanie Klein’s understanding of it. If the unconscious mind is left unlocked, it can disturb many functions of human life, such as social interaction, which is a vital aspect of human survival. These make psychoanalysis a critical field of study for the benefit of both individuals and society as a whole. The significance of modern psychoanalysis to society cannot be underestimated. It is the only field that studies the human being with all aspects and with no censors.
Understanding the deepest layers of human motivation and conflict can make a significant improvement in solving the problems of our society. Psychoanalysis helps traumatized children, youth, and adults (e.g. victims of violence) who are ill and in pain to cope with their scars, fears, not temporarily but for lifelong. Psychoanalytic therapy helps people to better integrate their emotions, behaviours, and thoughts to demonstrate constructive and cooperative interactions in the society. I have to come to appreciate the value of psychoanalysis for our society, and would like to contribute to further advancements.
As a master’s graduate with academic background in both psychology and neuroscience, I have a chance of contributing to the developing field of neuropsychoanalysis to investigate the complex relationship between the mind, brain, and emotions. I can help people with brain, mind and consequently behavior difficulties to integrate to their society. I believe that this program will prepare me with the knowledge, skills and experience to establish a successful career in a fascinating and rapidly expanding field to promote the quality of life in the people of my society.
Francisco
Francisco is one of Asherah Foundation’s outstanding applicants of 2016’s Second Chance Scholarship for women around the globe. After obtaining her master degree from McGill University, she decided to continue researching the psychoanalysis field in order to better the life of patients, and facilitate their reintegration into the society.
*For privacy purposes, the real name has been changed.