Kirsten Overholtzer is a 2020 graduate of Shippensburg University. She completed the Psychology, B.A. and Disability Studies Minor programs.
But she wasn’t ready to leave Ship behind just yet.
“Attending Shippensburg University has been the best decision I have ever made,” Overholtzer said. “I will continue my education here for my master’s in the Social Work Department.”
She’s ready for graduate school and much more. Overholtzer’s undergraduate experience provided her with a broad base of knowledge and skills that primed her for success in a variety of areas.
“Psychology is a field that is extremely diverse,” Overholtzer said. “As an undergraduate, you can take classes geared toward neuroscience, cognition, behavioral, developmental, adulthood and abnormal psychology. All of these classes and the diversity of the classes allow for students to feel successful when they graduate because they know so much in many fields.”
Experience outside the classroom has also been important for Overholtzer’s personal and professional growth. She became active in Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity and Psi Chi, an international psychology honor society. Overholtzer put good use to what she learned in the Disability Studies Minor by becoming president of the Disability Awareness Club. Additionally, she completed an internship with Indian Creek Foundation.
Overholtzer joined the Ship family after graduating from Quakertown Community High School. She says it felt like home and filled her with a sense of pride from the get-go. Despite this, there were challenges. She credits faculty with helping her through them.
“The professors at Shippensburg truly care about your success and your ability. There were many times I doubted myself as a person and a student and they were right behind me encouraging me. I have many relationships with professors and know if I ever need anything they will support me.”
Read more stories from the Class of 2020.
