Meet the Students of CGS: Marina Ritchie
College of General Studies: 2014 College of Arts and Sciences: 2016 Major: Psychology
What made you want to pursue your major?
“I loved conducting labs and learning about psychology in high school. When I came to Boston University, I started to do a lot of research on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. I’m from Japan where psychology is not as commonly discussed as it is in the United States. After the earthquake I really wanted to help the people of Japan with what I know. Knowing that I could use my major to make a difference cemented my passion for the subject.”
What do you do when you’re not in the classroom?
“I’m involved in a lot of science labs. I’m doing research at the Center of Anxiety and Other Related Disorders in Kenmore Square where I work under one of the doctors. I’m also doing my own directed study this semester. I’m looking at a huge database and comparing the 4 main anxiety related disorders — general anxiety, social anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder– to see how patients experience avoidance.”
What was your favorite College of General Studies class?
“I really liked philosophy. A lot of it was linked to psychology which I thought was really interesting. It’s also interesting because it’s so broad and every major has that background of philosophy somewhere.”
Have you stayed in touch with professors at the College of General Studies?
“Professor Wexelblatt (Humanities) — he’s awesome! I love talking to him, whether it’s getting career advice, sharing life updates, or talking about my latest research on topics like autism and anxiety. He’s knowledgeable about a wide range of topics and always has something interesting to say!”
What’s your favorite thing to do in Boston?
“I love getting a cannoli from Mike’s Pastries and going to the aquarium! They’re both by the wharf which is a great area. That’s where I go whenever I need to take a step back from work.”