Analysis of the Class Orientation to Psychology

Taking the Orientation to Psychology class my first semester at Seton Hall University was probably the most beneficial part of my college experience thus far. Although I came into college confidently declared as a psychology major, I didn’t really know what this meant or entailed prior to taking this course. This course taught me valuable information about myself, about the field of psychology, and about how I can mold those two together. All that I’ve learned this semester in Orientation to Psychology helped me to form a coherent and positive understanding of who I am and how this identity fits into the world of psychology.

The very first and most basic thing I learned this semester, was how to examine my study skills. Using the given self-evaluations I was able to gain a more complete understanding of my strengths and weaknesses as a student. I found that I excel at time management. I am not one to procrastinate and I am a very effective planner. Another personal area of strength in regard to study skills is my ability take notes. I have a very effective foundation in note-taking and this has continued into my undergraduate career. Although I am confident in my abilities as a student and do feel that I have a solid set of study skills, there is always room for improvement. I’ve learned this semesters that I could improve my skills in a variety of ways. The first, and easy step for a better studying experience would be to create a defined study space. I would be able to study in a more sophisticated manner if I spent my time at a clean desk with adequate lighting rather than in bed or on the floor. As a more complicated improvement, I could use some practice and/or skill training on learning how to differentiate what is crucial ...

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...ase. Psychologists can work in courts, laboratories, the government, or educational settings. These are other career options I should explore during my academic career so that I can be sure to find the most enjoyable career for my future. Keeping my future career in mind, it is crucial I earn the appropriate degree. This class provided me with a basic understanding of what degree I need to earn to achieve my occupational goals.

This course did not delve deeply into any one aspect of the field of psychology, however, the overview style of teaching proved to be essentially valuable to me. Without this class I would be floundering in the psychology major without much guidance. I am grateful to have taken such a valuable class the first semester of my freshman year and will carry its teachings with me throughout my remaining time in college and my career thereafter.