Emilee Gallivan plans to graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from Eastern New Mexico University. She is attending medical school at Ross University in January 2023 to pursue an MD and become a psychiatrist.

She has been shadowing doctors to prepare for her medical school journey.

She discusses her decision to pursue this career path: "Individuals who are given psychiatric diagnoses often endure prejudice and discrimination. This is due to the stigma that is attached to mental illness.

"The misconceptions about mental illness have created a fear that prevents individuals from seeking treatment. Leaving a psychiatric disorder left untreated can have a significant negative effect on the person.

"It is my hope that throughout my career as a psychiatrist, I can contribute to reducing the stigma of mental illness and encourage people to seek help without feeling shame."

Her goal is to use her voice and life experiences to "help guide those that have not been given the same chance as others. Everyone deserves the same opportunity, regardless of where they come from or where they started."

Emilee found her passion for psychology through her own journey with therapy. "Acknowledging how the quality of my own life has been greatly impacted by self-awareness, and the power of therapy, has motivated me to want to help others that have had similar life experiences," she shares.

The dean's list honoree, who had a 4.0 last semester, was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. Her father, Aaron, owns a pizzeria/deli in Hanford Bay, New York. Emilee and her brother, Connor, "spend a lot of time helping [our dad] pursue his dreams of having a restaurant."

Emilee moved to Portales, New Mexico, in 2015 to attend ENMU. In 2018, she moved to Alamosa, Colorado.

She chose to attend ENMU because she wanted to "challenge myself by getting out of my comfort zone and experience a different culture."

The senior, who was a member of the Spirit Squad from 2015 to 2017, says the best part of being a Greyhound is "feeling like I have a home away from home. ENMU gave me the opportunity to find myself and create a life that is successful and fulfilling."

Her favorite place on campus is Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena because of the "positive atmosphere that brings the campus together."

Dr. Gary Bond, professor of psychology, has served as Emilee's mentor at ENMU. "Dr. Bond has been an instrumental part of my academic growth," she shares.

The course that has stood out to her the most was Experimental Psychology. She says, "It challenged me but also gave me the opportunity to do research on topics that I am interested in."

Her recommendation for students interested in pursuing a degree in psychology is to "fully engage in class discussions and immerse yourself into your studies.

"Human behavior is present in our everyday lives, and throughout the program, you will realize that it's similar to group therapy. Relating to others through discussions about certain topics can really allow you to be present and open your mind."

Emilee's hobbies include going to Buffalo Bills games, traveling and doing yoga. She also volunteers at her local animal shelter.