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Kennedy McClain

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Bio

Hello, my name is Kennedy McClain and I am an undergraduate psychology student at Bowie State University. My most immediate academic and professional goal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with a focus on early childhood development and learning. Along my journey, I look forward to gaining unique field experiences that strengthen my understanding of human behavior and how people interact with the world around them. Ultimately, I aim to make a meaningful positive impact in my chosen field, especially for BIPOC women and children. Although I am committed to my academic and professional goals, finances are a significant factor in my pursuit of higher education. As the child of a single mother, I depend on financial aid. Any considerations for scholarships and grants are greatly appreciated, as they will directly fund my education and propel me toward being the positive change and advancement that I want to see in the world. Aside from my academic and professional goals, in my spare time, I enjoy photography, music, reading, traveling, and language learning. My hobbies have broadened my horizons and shaped me into a well-rounded individual.

Education

George Mason University

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Psychology, General

Oxon Hill High School

High School
2018 - 2022

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Psychology, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Psychology

    • Dream career goals:

      Pediatric Neuropsychologist

    • Merchandising Associate

      TJMaxx
      2023 – Present1 year
    • Sales Associate

      Old Navy
      2022 – 20231 year
    • Community Beautification

      Summer Youth Enrichment Program
      2019 – 2019

    Sports

    Volleyball

    Intramural
    2018 – 20191 year

    Soccer

    Club
    2008 – 20124 years

    Arts

    • The Voice of Mason Korea

      Design
      2023 – 2023
    • School Organization

      Music
      Band Concerts and Competitions
      2012 – 2017

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      LuvMichael — Advocate
      2021 – 2021

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Rosa A. Wilson Scholarship
    When I was five years old Disney released “The Princess and the Frog”, a major animated film featuring the first and only Black Disney princess. Seeing a Disney princess who reminded me so fondly of the women in my life on the big screen made me feel so proud to be a young Black girl at the time. That was the moment I began to understand the weight of diversity and how important it is to see people from various cultures and backgrounds represented on widespread platforms. But diversity and inclusion go beyond having relatable characters in the media, it extends to having adequate representation in politics, medicine, social justice, and more. Since I was young, I have been interested in psychology, always seeking to understand the mind and how people interact with the world around them. Even when my major or career aspirations changed, they always connected back to psychology. Presently, I aspire to work in the field of child psychology. Development begins in early childhood and I find it essential to set a healthy foundation for adulthood. I am specifically interested in working with neurodivergent children, as I want to aid children of all backgrounds ensuring they receive the assistance they require and supporting them in understanding how best to navigate the world as individuals. My interest in working with neurodivergent children began with my journey of exploring who I am as a Black woman who displays neurodivergent characteristics. I recognize that determining where I fit in a world built for people who do not look or think like me is critical to my ultimate success and sense of well-being. In my relatively short life, I have encountered many people who are undiagnosed and unaided in their neurodivergence, as symptoms typically appear in a variety of ways across different demographics; notably in girls and people of color. So, as a Black woman grappling with her undiagnosed neurodivergence, I have a unique perspective that motivates me to help other BIPOC women and children find a sense of belonging and individuality. I aim to offer this support through my presence in the psychology field. Although I am primarily interested in working with children, I would also like to play a role in creating more support programs for neurodivergent adults. As a teenager, I volunteered with Luv Michael, which is a non-profit organization that provides employment opportunities for adults with autism. During my time as a volunteer, I became educated on how difficult it is for adults with autism to transition into the workforce, due to a lack of support programs that extend beyond adolescence. So I would like to be a part of an organization such as Luv Michael that works diligently to bridge that gap, which may include mentorship programs or community outreach campaigns that encourage inclusivity and neurodivergent aid in the hiring process. I believe that it would also be beneficial for organizations to partner with schools and other local organizations so that neurodivergent adolescents can become aware of the programs offered within their community and create a strong system of support for them into adulthood.