Experimental psychologists conduct and interpret research, and usually work within a specialty with regards to types of human responses. Cognitive psychologists focus on how human process information, and quantitative psychologists focus on measuring human cognition in relation to characteristics. They also devise ways to test and measure behavior, intelligence, personality, and emotionality to explain and predict them (Kuther & Morgan, 2012, p. 117). Careers within the insurance, computer, finance, and consultation in either field are possible with a bachelor’s, depending on experience and education. Opportunities with a graduate degree include a strong analytical component that would commiserate with such degrees, …show more content…
Of note would be probation, and more specifically within juvenile detention, as I have experience with that population, setting, necessary knowledge of the criminal lifestyles of that group, and specific counseling approaches that are useful. While a graduate degree would allow for more money, and direct treatment provision that is afforded a clinical and counseling psychology, I would still be providing some counseling services, along with other administrative functions as a youth probation officer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry level positions require a bachelor degree, with a 2015 median pay of about $49K (2015). I have learned that while each state has different approaches to youth in the justice system, more important is the approach of the youth probation officer who, like the justice system, can be pro-rehabilitation or pro-punitive. Also, there is an extensive training period, and criminal justice education that is required; background and education in counseling, behavioral sciences, or a specialization such as substance abuse is attractive. Again, my previous experience with advocating for my juvenile clients in court, would be a …show more content…
My last hold-out for a career is in creative writing, or rather creating my own works and novels. I have actually written an in depth paper for another English class on what makes a good writer, and the necessary factors, characteristics and behaviors or practices that they must wield to be successful. I have also written several short stories and a scholarly literature paper that professors encouraged me to submit to different organizations. I often think, when I am feeling low, tired, or bored with school, to just quit. I tell myself, you could finally be writing that great novel everyone has always told you that you could and should write. But doing that would be scary, and staying with a pattern is easier, even if not exciting, or seeming to be for nothing. Still, I love to journal and write. I like to paint pictures and bring forth feeling with words, just as much as I like to read that in the works of others. You can definitely be creative in counseling, and dealing with clients, but not so exorbitantly as you can with writing. In many ways, I look back at my life, and really think “you always took the easy route”, where the only challenge was to persist and persevere. As a result, I know inherently I have not reached anywhere near my meant potential. That may be because I am moving farther away from it every day. At the end of this day, the only real