I was in a remote village in the Peruvian Andes conducting art therapy with prisoners when I realized that this was the most meaningful experience of my life, and it shouldn't have been. The study and practice of psychology is where my humanitarian and intellectual interests align. I am applying to the Clinical Psychology program to fulfill the training I need to continue making meaningful contributions to society and also contribute to the field of psychology through research. A family illness that is now happily behind me prevented me from doing so before. I earned a Masters in Clinical Art Therapy from New York University. It was through that program, which provided me with the opportunity to determine what I needed to learn further, that my intention to return to earn a doctorate in clinical psychology crystallized. As an undergraduate at Hunter College, I majored in psychology and religion, and minored in philosophy. The psyche and human behavior have always been my primary interest, and this focus quickly turned into a passion for psychology as I learned about the intricacies of human development in courses such as Personality Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Social Psychology. Likewise, I received a foundation for research in the courses Research Methods and Statistics, Psychological Testing, and Statistics for Psychology. The study of religion and philosophy complemented these courses with diverse worldviews and cultural awareness. During this time, I worked with children with special needs through the YMCA and with children diagnosed with autism through Special Sprouts. In doing so, I discovered that artistic expression could facilitate therapy for people who lacked the vocabulary or thought organization to communicate their feelings, or for whom...... middle of paper..... ., and interdisciplinary thinking because it aligns with my vision, as demonstrated by my past work both clinical and academic. My talent for working with diverse populations and environments drives my desire to earn a PhD. Ultimately my goal is to work in this field which I find rewarding and fascinating; in particular, working with adults with psychopathology. I would also like to contribute to a broader field with research and teaching. I feel I have the characteristics of an empathetic and dynamic psychotherapist with the ability to work in alternative modalities. Based on your department's statement, I believe that I will be an excellent person based on my educational background and diverse experiences. In conclusion, I have been on a long journey towards my goals, but this has made me absolutely certain of where I want to go, and I hope I can get there with your department.