Alexa Collas

Pursuing my bachelor’s degree in psychology is a vital step toward deepening my understanding of human behavior, mental health, and the complex spectrum of psychological disorders. I want to equip myself with comprehensive knowledge about the various challenges individuals face, especially those on the autism spectrum. This academic foundation will not only strengthen my ability to connect with and support children and their families but also prepare me to approach their unique needs with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based strategies. My goal is to combine this knowledge with my hands-on experience to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

After completing my bachelor’s, I plan to pursue a master’s in social work, which will further enable me to advocate for and empower these children and their families. I aspire to become a case manager, working directly with children on the spectrum to coordinate services, provide emotional support, and help improve their overall quality of life. I want to be a compassionate guide and a tireless champion for these children, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive in all aspects of life. Ultimately, my dream is to create a positive, lasting impact by helping these children and their families navigate challenges and celebrate their unique strengths.

Pursuing a Master of Social Work is the next crucial step in my journey to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children on the spectrum and their families. Through graduate school, I will gain advanced training in clinical practice, advocacy, and community-based services, equipping me with the skills needed to provide holistic support and navigate complex systems. The MSW program will deepen my understanding of social and emotional challenges, enhance my ability to develop individualized care plans, and strengthen my capacity to advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and access to resources.

This education will prepare me to serve as a compassionate and effective case manager, helping families access the services they need and empowering children to reach their full potential. I am committed to continuous learning and growth, knowing that this degree will enable me to transform my passion into impactful, real-world action. Ultimately, I see the MSW as a vital tool to fulfill my dream of advocating for children on the spectrum and working toward a future where every child is supported, understood, and celebrated for their unique abilities.

I’m a proud history nerd who loves diving into the stories of our past and uncovering the secrets behind how we got here. I’m that person who actively seeks out the answers to the big questions about human history—constantly fascinated by the patterns that repeat over time and how different moments in history seem to echo each other. My favorite chapters? Without a doubt, World War I and World War II in US history. There’s something about those turbulent times, the rise and fall of empires, and the resilience of people that captivates me every time I read about them.

But my curiosity doesn’t stop there. I have a deep admiration for ancient cultures—how civilizations thrived, innovated, and sometimes vanished—yet often left behind fragments of their stories. I find it incredible how the "glass ceiling" in some of these early societies was shattered long before we even had the term, revealing early signs of societal change and innovation. Exploring these early civilizations feels like peering through a window into humanity’s earliest attempts at progress, reminding me that history is full of surprises and lessons that are still relevant today.