Meet Our Students and Alumni

What attracted me to the IDP Cognitive Science concentration was an interest in mind and consciousness, and a disenchantment with how other disciplines go about studying those things.

I chose IDP because for as long as I can remember, I knew that no matter what I ended up doing as a career or throughout life in general, I wanted to help people. I have always had a passion for making people feel heard, advocacy and offering support when needed; this major seems to encapsulate all of that and much more.

I chose IDP because it allowed me to personalize my university education. Oftentimes, students feel that their education is placed in a ‘box’ … it doesn’t have to be that way! For me, IDP was the best way to pursue my interests in policy development, sociology/social change, and the relationships between people and places while developing a strong background in research theory/methodology and experiential learning.

What attracted me to the IDP program was the ability to study education … With the IDP program I was able to have a concentration in Early Childhood Studies which then allowed me to take classes focused on my interests.

I was able to take classes in a variety of departments and apply them effectively to my area of study. I think this allowed me a greater understanding of my field through the perspectives of various disciplines.

I’m from Orchard Park, New York, and I am studying French, linguistics and international studies with a regional focus in Africa.

Originally from Buffalo, New York, I am pursuing a double major in Health and Human Services/Community Mental Health and Psychology.

For me, this major encompassed everything I am. After pursuing nursing, and realizing that clinical work was not “for me,” I started to hone in on my leadership skills and ability to direct, inspire and HELP.