Nikita Dutt, a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, never imagined that she would be working with young children during her college years. But since September, she has found herself immersed in a new and unexpected experience that has not only challenged her, but also brought her immense joy and fulfillment.
Nikita, a psychology major, had always been interested in understanding human behavior and the factors that shape it. She chose to attend UC Davis for its renowned psychology program and was excited to begin her journey towards a career in the field. However, little did she know that her path would take a detour towards a different aspect of psychology – child development.
It all started when Nikita came across an advertisement for a volunteer program at a local preschool. The program aimed to provide college students with the opportunity to work with young children and gain hands-on experience in the field of child development. Despite her initial hesitation, Nikita decided to give it a try and applied for the program.
To her surprise, she was accepted and began her journey as a volunteer at the preschool. At first, Nikita was unsure of what to expect and felt a little out of her comfort zone. However, as she spent more time with the children, she found herself falling in love with the job. She was amazed by the energy and curiosity of the children and was inspired by their ability to learn and grow at such a young age.
As a volunteer, Nikita was involved in various activities such as reading to the children, helping them with their assignments, and organizing fun games and activities. She also had the opportunity to observe and assist the teachers in their lessons, gaining valuable insights into the techniques and methods used in early childhood education.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Nikita’s experience was the bond she formed with the children. She found herself becoming a role model and a source of comfort for them. The children would often come to her with their problems and share their stories, and Nikita was always there to listen and offer her support. She also saw firsthand the impact of her presence on the children, as they became more confident and eager to learn.
Apart from the personal fulfillment, Nikita’s experience at the preschool also had a significant impact on her academic journey. She found herself applying the theories and concepts she learned in her psychology classes to her interactions with the children. This not only helped her gain a deeper understanding of the subject but also reinforced her passion for child development.
Nikita’s experience at the preschool has also opened up new career opportunities for her. She is now considering pursuing a career in early childhood education, something she never thought of before. She has also been offered a part-time job at the preschool, which she has gladly accepted. Nikita believes that this experience has not only enriched her life but also provided her with valuable skills and experiences that will benefit her in her future endeavors.
As Nikita reflects on her journey, she is grateful for the unexpected turn her college experience has taken. She never imagined that working with young children would have such a profound impact on her life. She encourages her fellow students to step out of their comfort zones and explore new opportunities, as they never know where it might lead them.
Nikita’s story is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best experiences come from the most unexpected places. Her passion for psychology may have brought her to UC Davis, but it was her willingness to try something new that led her to discover a new passion and purpose. Nikita’s journey is a reminder that college is not just about getting a degree, but also about exploring and discovering oneself. And for Nikita, that journey has just begun.
