An interdisciplinary approach
Qi Chen
Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development M.S.Ed., 2019
Before Penn GSE: Undergraduate student
After Penn GSE: Ph.D. student, Counseling, George Washington University
When I looked at the program of study and the curriculum offered by Penn GSE, I felt it was a great match for me, especially the concept of interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate insights, knowledge, and information from other field and majors.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree in Human Development at Penn GSE?
A: My undergraduate study has built in me a strong interest in the area of developmental psychology. When I looked at the program of study and the curriculum offered by Penn GSE, I felt it was a great match for me, especially the concept of interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate insights, knowledge, and information from other field and majors.
Q: What was the single most important thing you learned in the ISHD program?
A: That learning to look at things from different perspectives is essential to integrating knowledge. Everyone’s opinions and insights are important in contributing to a discussion of new topics. Everyone’s voice is equally valued which I believe is also the school philosophy at Penn.
Q: How did your experience in the ISHD program inform your career path?
A: It worked as a transitional period as I was not sure if I should directly apply for a doctoral degree when I was a senior at college. It provided me with meaningful experience as a graduate student such as working on research at an advanced level, interacting with mentors and other peers with similar interests to provoke insightful ideas, and learning to balance life and school work. I also had the opportunity to add a concentration in counseling skills that inspired me and confirmed my future goal in applying for a doctoral degree.