Isabela Barboza, Catholic '26, is a a Psychological and Brain Sciences major from Clarion, PA. She shares why she chose to attend Catholic University and what advice she has for prospective students.
Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and what set the Department of Psychology apart?
"I chose to attend Catholic University for the people and the Catholic identity. Ever since my first Zoom (yes, Zoom) with the professors and students at Catholic I knew that there was a special joy and serenity about the campus. After visiting the campus and spending time here, the Catholic identity of service and love has really stuck out to me and made me feel at home."
Why did you choose to student Psychology?
"I chose to study Psychology because I have a strong drive towards happiness and seeing those around me. I want to become better at receiving people and their situations in life, and Psychology allows me to grow in understanding of the human person. As a Bachelor of Science degree, it is also exciting to learn more about the physiological processes behind human emotions, thinking, and actions. I want to love well and Psychology helps me do exactly that."
What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?
"My favorite part of being a student at Catholic is the small class size. This small class size allows for me to establish relationship with my professors and the other students in my classes.
I definitely do not know everyone on campus, but there is still always a friend to say hi to everywhere that I go."
What advice would you give to prospective students?
"Last year, I asked my friend's mom for advice and she said 'Don't take yourself too seriously.' At first, I was taken aback by this answer. What do you mean? I need to succeed and try hard! How can I not take myself too seriously? I have learned in the past year, however, that she was exactly right. It is important to study hard and to be involved, but through all of that we need to remember that we are finite, dependent on God, and meant to enjoy life! So, prospective students, work hard but don't take yourself too seriously!"
