Kelsey Richardson Fell in Love With Research Psychology

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KELSEY RICHARDSON

Psychology | College of Arts and Sciences | 2016

Where is UMKC taking you?

Places I didn’t know I could go before. I started out with people not believing in me, telling me I couldn’t do it, but now I know I can.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I’m studying psychology at UMKC to become a marine mammal trainer and researcher.  I have always wanted to work with marine mammals, and after doing some research, one of the few majors in the field is psychology. Ten years from now I will be doing what I love, hopefully somewhere tropical! Like Hawaii or Bermuda.

Why did you choose UMKC?

I didn’t know about UMKC until I moved here from Chicago, then I took a tour and it just clicked.

Since entering college, what have you learned about yourself?

I have learned that I’m very determined and goal oriented. I always like a challenge and to prove to everyone who didn’t believe in me that I could do it. I started out as a biology major but fell in love with research psychology. I didn’t know I would enjoy research, but I love it. A lot of that is because of my professors. They were so supportive and told me I could succeed.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received from a professor?

The best piece of advice I have ever received from a professor is from Dr. Diane Filion, my professor for experimental psychology. First day of class, she made the whole class know how much she wanted us to succeed; we can do anything we put our minds to. I love teachers like that. It makes the class so much more heartwarming.

What do you admire most at UMKC?

I admire the teachers and the students at UMKC. The teachers I have had so far have made college a truly wonderful experience. The teachers here work very hard to help and to guide you through your courses. The students I have become close friends with are truly inspiring, so many dreams and different stories, what they want to do, what they want to be. They are the heart of UMKC.

Are you a first generation college student?

I’m a first-generation college student. It shows how far I have come and illustrates the determination I possess.

What’s your greatest fear?

My greatest fear in school: Like any student, running late to an exam or getting a bad grade. My personal fear: Heights. But I’m not afraid of depth. I like scuba diving.

What is one word that best describes you and why?

Resolute. Admirably purposeful, determined and unwavering; always following my dreams and achieving my goals.

What motto do you live by?

I can do anything I put my mind to.

What excites you?

Working with animals. I’m hoping to work at an aquarium over the summer, maybe in Georgia or Bermuda. I currently work at Land of Paws and take care of the puppies.