Adriene Active
My goal is to obtain a Master's in Psychology with a specialized interest in Research, Evaluation and Measurement. Through my research of possible colleges, Capella University is the only educational institution which meets my academic goals with regards to research and evaluation in the field of Psychology. Online education will provide me with the flexibility I need to maintain a full-time job and continue to be the awesome mother I am to my three girls.
My academic experience consists of a Bachelor's in Social Work (May 1997) obtained through the University of Alaska, Anchorage. During my college years I was a single mother of two young girls; working approximately 30 hours per week; and carrying no less than 12 credits per semester. I was determined to complete my bachelor's prior to my girls becoming young adolescents. Upon beginning my college career my girls were almost one year old and two and a half years old. Thus, the time I was afforded to work, attend class, study and complete homework was limited. I spent many sleepless nights in order to complete class work; maintain my employment; and be a mother to two young girls. I was blessed with loving grandparents and godparents who helped me with my girls, mainly during mid-terms and finals, so I could solely focus on academic studies.
My girls have since grown up, now 17 and 19 years old, and I did add another girl to the clan (she is five years old). I am determined to continue my academic pursuits by starting in the Capella Master's of Psychology program. My long-term academic goal is to obtain my Ph.D. in the combined fields of research, psychology and indigenous studies. I want to contribute to professionals and traditional elders who are striving towards wellness for Alaska Natives and American Indians. I am half Inupiaq (Alaska Native) and half Jemez Pueblo (American Indian).
The current Alaska Native population is comprised of younger people, more than half (55 percent) are under the age of 21. The current Alaska Native social ills contributing to the destruction of Native villages, families and individuals are rising at alarming rates. Therefore, I feel the need to expand my knowledge with respect to research, evaluation and measurement and combine western scientific knowledge with traditional healing processes.
I have dedicated my professional and personal life to working towards betterment for Alaska Native peoples and within my own family. My professional experience has grown immensely since I received my degree. I have many intelligent mentors who have led and nurtured my professional growth towards fulfilling professional goals. My professional career began as a high-risk youth social worker (intermittent village support) and I have matured into Program Management and Policy Development. The boards and committees I have been asked to serve on have grown from basic educational support (community) to statewide and national representation. I have served in many leadership roles within these boards and my professional experience.
I am at a time of my life where I am able to commit myself to learning and fully appreciate my academic pursuits. I am capable to committing more time for my academic studies and realize the importance of obtaining an above average Master’s education and willing to dedicate time and effort to learn at my full potential. I work for United Way of Anchorage as a Community Liaison/Planner for a SAMHSA Underage Drinking prevention grant and I am employed full-time from home.
I just log on to my computer and report to work for the day, no matter what time it is! I do have obligations for meetings, etc. however, for the most part I am able to organize my own hours.
Please consider me for a scholarship for a Master’s of Psychology with a specialization in Research, Evaluation and Measurement.