My first clinical psychology PhD interview weekend taught me that admissions are not just about research fit, strong answers, or preparation. Sometimes, the hardest part is navigating the hidden social rules — the dinners, the networking, the pressure to be memorable, and the quiet competition in the room. I was ultimately rejected, but that experience helped me better understand what kind of training environment I actually want as I prepare to begin my PsyD this fall.

I did not choose psychology because I had everything figured out. I chose it because I kept asking why: why people become who they are, how early experiences shape us, and what helps people heal. In this post, I share the story behind The Budding Psychologist, my journey as a first-generation student and researcher, and why I created this space for students navigating psychology, graduate school, and higher education.