1.  Introduction – tell us a bit about who you are. 

My name is Natalie Khoury and I am a first generation student. Both of my parents immigrated from the Middle East, so I was raised in a family rich in Arab culture. Our values of loyalty, hospitality, community, and honor plays a great role inmy identity, and continuously shapes who I am.

2.  Briefly describe your background/road to CPP (where did you grow up, etc.).

I was born and raised in Southern California, where I grew up in Rancho Cucamonga as a sibling of four. One of my older sisters graduated from CPP as part of Class of 2021, so I was excited to follow in her footsteps.

3.  Why did you choose to attend CPP?

A big reason I attended CPP was due to the success and enjoyment my older sister experienced during her time inundergrad here. I had also visited with her a few times before and always loved the campus. I appreciate the diversity of the school and the endless opportunities it offers its students.

4.  How/why did you choose your major? 

I pursued Psychology because I always knew I wanted to help people in my future career, but wasn’t sure of exactly how to channel that want. After learning more about the field during my AP Psychology class in high school, I’ve gotten to see the transformative power of therapy and how it can benefit individuals, couples, and families. I’ve become verydedicated to breaking the stigma around therapy, and I am passionate about making it more accessible and culturally responsive.

5.  How would you describe your overall CPP experience?

I’d describe my overall CPP experience as fulfilling. I’m grateful that I got to learn under such amazing professors, makefriends with people from diverse backgrounds, and be able to grow both personally and professionally in such an engaging environment.

6.  What’s your fondest memory at CPP? 

My fondest memory at CPP was from my sophomore year here when I was talking with one of my professors after class.I remember expressing how nervous I felt because I knew I needed to put myself out there more, but wasn’t sure how to pursue the opportunities I wanted. She reminded me that the professors are here to support us, and that they want us tosucceed. They understand how new we are to college and the fields we’re pursuing, so it’s okay to be open and honest about it. That professor encouraged me to talk to my now mentor (Dr. Baumsteiger) to ask if I can join her lab despite having no clue what I’m doing. So that’s exactly what I did, and now I’m here some years later after learning so much through joining that research lab!

7.  Which instructor influenced you the most and how so?

I would say Dr. Baumsteiger has influenced me the most, and I am very appreciative of her! I joined her lab knowing absolutely nothing about how to actually conduct my own research experiment, and she really helped show me theropes. I really love how she didn’t just hold my hand, but really gave me a space where I can be challenged and learn for myself. Dr. Baumsteiger’s belief in me has also validated my experiences and reinstilled the belief I have in myself.

8.  What clubs, resources, or people did you appreciate the most during your time at CPP? 

I really appreciated Projects Hatchery, which is a resource my mentor directed me to. Essentially, it’s an organization that guides students in turning their meaningful ideas into fully realized projects, which is how my team and I were able toconduct our longitudinal experiment.

9.  What advice do you have for your peers graduating?

The biggest piece of advice I’d like to offer is to try to be more open about continuously learning, and reminding ourselves that it’s okay that we don’t know everything. There’s always going to be more to learn.

10.  How has your experience at CPP shaped the person you are today?

My experience at CPP has shaped the person I am today in many ways. The coursework not only deepened my understanding of psychology, but also gave me the language to better articulate the emotions and experiences in myown life. It reinforced my passion for the field and opened my eyes to the countless ways I can channel my desire to help others.

Beyond academics, the unwavering support of my professors pushed me to reach beyond my comfort zone and strive for my full potential. With their guidance, I was able to design and implement my own longitudinal research experiment, present my findings at student conferences, and publish to Bronco Scholarworks. In Spring 2024, I was honored with the Psychology Department’s Professional Development award. Being acknowledged for my efforts felt incredibly validating and provided me with the reassurance I’ve needed to recognize the value of my work. My time at CPP not only prepared me for the next chapter in my education but also solidified my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

11.  What are your plans after CPP?

After earning my BA in Psychology at CPP, I will be pursuing a higher education through CPP’s Masters of Science in Psychology program. I will then work towards earning my licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy so that I can offer culturally competent therapy to diverse populations.

12.  Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I plan to have earned my Masters of Science in Psychology through CPP’s graduate program. I will have completed the required steps to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, where I hope to provide therapy to children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities. I will continue to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in the mental health field, ultimately working towards reducing the stigma around therapy.