Global Programs
Student Spotlights
In Spring 2024, we welcomed our first incoming cohort of Micro-Campus dual degree students into the Psychology program. These are Peruvian students who are enrolled in two different degree programs at the same time – our undergraduate bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Arizona, along with an undergraduate degree from their home university in Lima Peru, UPC (Universidad Peruanda de Ciencias Aplicadas). In recognition of the major accomplishments of these Micro-Campus students, we launched a new biannual Micro-Campus Student Spotlight.
Fall 2024 Student Spotlight award: Meet Maria Alejandra Mendoza Vascones
We are thrilled to announce Maria Alejandra Mendoza Vascones as the winner of the Fall 2024 Global Programs Student Spotlight! A passionate and driven student in the Micro-Campus dual degree program, Maria Alejandra is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from both the University of Arizona and UPC (Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas) in Lima, Peru.
Maria Alejandra stands out not only for her academic excellence but also for her deep commitment to making a difference. As noted by UA Psychology faculty member and dual degree coordinator Alma Tejeda Padron, "Maria Alejandra goes above and beyond in her studies and has shown exceptional initiative in seeking mentorship and preparing for a future in graduate school. Her genuine curiosity and tenacity are evident in all aspects of her academic journey."
Through volunteer work, a focus on mental health advocacy, and plans to specialize in therapies like DBT, Maria Alejandra aims to bring hope and support to vulnerable populations, especially in underserved areas. Her dedication to education and social change is inspiring, and we are proud to celebrate her achievements. Get to know Maria Alejandra in her own words in the Q&A below!
Nickname: Mariale
Age: 21
Favorite Food: Sushi or anything sweet (I'm more of a dessert person)
Favorite Color: Pink, Yellow or white
Favorite Hobby or Pastime: I love dancing and doing volunteer work with kids, adolescents, animals, adult people, or anyone who is in a vulnerable situation and needs help.
Why did you decide to major in Psychology?
I went through tough times in my life when fortunately, I received help a little late, but I did. It helped me realize how important mental health is; it doesn't matter if you are perfectly fine in your physical health because if your mental health isn't going well, you will not be able to live your life peacefully. Sometimes, people tend to forget its importance, so I want to work for that, to remind everyone how important it is to take care of us and others, not just in the physical part but also the emotional one.
What do you plan to do as a career after graduation?
I plan to follow a path full of psychology, so I would like to do a PhD in Psychology. I think that the Maria Alejandra of today isn't sure of what to follow yet exactly; I'm very interested in emotional dysregulation in kids and adolescents, and I would like to specialize in therapies like DBT because I'm into working with patients with BPD. Still, this year's experiences helped me see a little bit more of how the world needs education in Psychology fields, especially my country, Peru, and I have no doubt other countries also have regions where psychology is still a myth. I want to reach out to those kids, those families, those places where people feel there's not much more than what they see, but there is, and I want to bring light, clearance, let them know there are strategies, there are concepts, they might have never heard, but if I can be an instrument for them to hear it at least ones. I'm very thankful my family had the financial status to support my treatments and could receive therapy with great professionals, but I'm also well aware not many people have this chance, and that doesn't mean they don't need it. I want to serve society, serve people, and help those who need it; with minutes or hours of my life, I want to make a better world, and I'm not crazy for believing that we can make a real change step by step, little by little.
Why were you interested in the Micro-Campus program with UA and UPC? I've traveled many times to the U.S in many other opportunities, even before graduating from school my goal always was to live outside Peru and study in other countries because I knew the information and every new discoverment was on the first world I wanted to be part of that, of something big. In the U.S., I could also see amazing things I didn't in my country, like the order, the safety, the technology; my dream was living there; I knew I had the abilities, I just wanted an opportunity. Actually, I had it. It is a long story, but I was going to study at the University of Utah, but it was two years ago, in that moment, when everything came when the opportunity was there, something felt wrong. I believe someone knows when it's your moment for something when you are prepared, and at that moment, I wasn't; I was still leading with some difficult situations and separating from my family to go live practically alone; I realized it wasn't the moment for it. So I left it. Still, I had that desire inside me to study in the U.S. or abroad, and when this opportunity was available, there was no way I could let it pass. I want to grow, to learn more, I love learning and keeping up with the latest, I know this opportunity is a gift, I'm thankful for having the chance to study in a University in the U.S and a good University. I just want to make the most of this opportunity and that's why I give my best and my 100%.
Spring 2024 Student Spotlight award: Sofia Aranda Galvez
We are thrilled to introduce our first recipient of the Micro-Campus Student Spotlight award, Sofia Aranda Galvez. Sofia is a remarkable student, showing incredible progress in her educational pursuits and dedication to her academic and career goals. Sofia’s passion for psychology stems from a genuine desire to contribute to society’s well-being and mental health. After graduating, Sofia plans to receiver further education and training to become a licensed clinical psychologist.
UA Psychology faculty member and Dual Degree coordinator, Alma Tejeda Padron, taught Sofia in Research Methods. From those interactions, she said: "Sofia has not only excelled in earning top grades but has also demonstrated outstanding adaptability to a whole new college system, embracing a different culture and language. She actively engages in class activities and exhibits a genuine passion for psychological studies. Sofia's thoughtful analyses and unwavering commitment to academic excellence distinguish her as an exceptional student in our psychology program."
In Sofia, we celebrate not only an exceptional student, but also a trailblazer who embodies the spirit of global learner and intellectual curiosity. Congratulations, Sofia, on all of your accomplishments so far! This is only the beginning! We are ALL Wildcats!
Age: 19
Favorite Food: Spaghetti carbonara or causa (a typical Peruvian dish)
Favorite Color: Baby pink
Favorite Hobby or Pastime: Going on walks and traveling
What interested you about studying Psychology?
There are multiple reasons I was interested in studying psychology. I think like most psychology students I am interested in learning about the complex world of the human mind and mental illness. My passion for psychology roots from a genuine desire to contribute to society’s well-being and mental health. By studying psychology I will acquire the knowledge and develop the skills necessary to help individuals with their mental health issues. It would be truly rewarding to be able to have a positive impact in people’s lives. Additionally, psychology is such a diverse and versatile field with a wide range of career paths, so it allows you to pursue your studies matching your unique interests and passions.
What do you plan to do as a career after graduation?
I have always been interested in the clinical field of psychology. After graduation, I envision myself pursuing further education and training to become a licensed clinical psychologist. As of now, I am leaning towards clinical neuropsychology. However, there are so many branches of psychology that seem extremely intriguing to me, including forensic psychology, so I am definitely open to exploring other options as I continue to learn more about them during my studies.
Why were you interested in the Micro-Campus program with UA and UPC?
Since I first began my studies at UPC back in 2022, I have always viewed the Micro-Campus program with the University of Arizona as a fantastic and innovative opportunity for students. This program is new for psychology and when I found out it would be available for us psychology students, I knew I had to apply! I believe it is an incredible opportunity that will allow me to broaden my horizons, step out of my comfort zone, and grow both as an individual and student. I knew that participating in this program would require me to adapt to a different style of education and take classes in my second language, but I am committed to continual growth and thrive on challenging myself. Moreover, I saw studying at both universities as a way to enrich my learning experience. Furthermore, the chance to study abroad in Arizona for a semester was really motivating. Not only would it allow me to engage directly with professors and peers, but also immerse myself in a new environment. I am particularly enthusiastic about experiencing the vibrant student life at the University of Arizona. Also, it would give me an opportunity to travel and explore new places, which I love. Lastly, the abundance of resources available thanks to the UofA is truly game-changing, and I’m definitely taking advantage of them! I am deeply appreciative of this opportunity and will continue to do my absolute best to succeed in the program!
Updated: 12/17/24