Undecided No More

Sometimes the road to your final goal can be a little rocky—for junior Shelby Sorensen, deciding on a major was just that.

Sorensen had always wanted to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy (OT), so while searching for a course of study, majoring in biology made sense—at first.

“I quickly realized that I just didn’t have the interest in Biology that I thought I had,” Sorensen said about her short stint in the natural science. But with the help of Mount Mercy professors and advisors, she quickly learned that there was another option for her end goal.

“With confidence, I switched my major to Psychology. I love Psychology, and I was happy to still continue working towards OT.”

“With confidence, I switched my major to Psychology. I love Psychology, and I was happy to still continue working towards OT.”

Not only did Sorensen switch to Psychology because of her interest in the subject, but also because of her six year old cousin, Skyler, who inspired her to want to learn more about the inner workings of a person’s mind.

“Skyler has had one of the most difficult lives, and he is only six. He was born with multiple disabilities—PVL Brain Damage, Pica Eating Disorder, Epilepsy, Autism, and Cerebral Palsy," said Sorensen. "At the time, I did not realize how much of what I was learning in class would apply to my interactions with him."

Sorensen is also thankful for the opportunities to be involved on campus. She is a student ambassador, President of the Junior Class, Co-President of M2AP Board, Co-President of Science Club, Secretary of Criminal Justice Club, Secretary of Spanish Club, Lundy Student Manager, Intramurals Coordinator, a member of the Psychology Club, and part of the Mount Mercy softball team.

“I cannot stress enough to anyone in college or about to start college: GET INVOLVED!  I have met so many friends and have made so many memories through clubs and organizations,” Sorensen said.

After graduation, Sorensen plans to continue her passion for OT by going to graduate school.

"Mount Mercy is truly a second home to me, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of my time here has in store for me.”

“I am only a junior but senior year will come faster than I realize, then I will be graduating. As much as I don’t want to leave, I am confident that I have been well prepared for graduate school and the real world. Mount Mercy is truly a second home to me, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of my time here has in store for me.”