Ericka T
Pediatric Psychiatrist
Dream Job, USA
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
I learned a friend was suffering from mental illness.
I didn't want her to feel alone on the issue and studied on the subject in order to understand her.
I became passionate on the topic of mental well being.
At the same time I was in Girl Scouts and spent much time volunteering in the community.
wanted to create change and better the lives of youth both in a national scale and abroad.
I decided to pursue a life of service and guidance in hopes of improving the life of youth.
I went to university and earned an MD in psychiatry with a focus on adolescent development.
I began service projects and moved to a wider scale. I worked with Girl Scouts on these projects.
Education
High School
Career
Pediatric Psychiatrist
I provide a safe space for youth to find guidance, counseling, and treatment.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Medicine
Non-Profit Organizations
Helping People
Day to Day
As a pediatric psychiatrist I provide medical treatment as well as counseling to my young patients. I am also the founder and President of a non profit organization which is dedicated in providing education in developing countries. I oversee the operational responsibilities and manage the organization,along with a devoted board of directors. I am also involved in Girl Scouts through a position on the board of directors.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for high school students
Become involved in your community, take time to participate in volunteer experiences and service projects. Become passionate on issues of social change and truly love helping others. If possible, take classes related to psychology, social sciences, and biology. Find internships or job shadowing opportunities in the field. Specifically in the field of pediatric psychiatry, find positions in which you can work with children.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Family:
""You can't be in more than one field" "You can't do that, you're a girl" "There's no money in that" "You aren't good enough" "There's always someone better, why try?" "Shouldn't you focus on getting married instead?""You're one person can't create change""
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
First-Generation College Student
