Inspiring Graduate: Alicia Webster (’24)
- Hometown: Cannon Falls, Minn.
- Degree: B.S. Psychology
- Concentration: Pre-clinical
Alicia Webster started her college education during high school, earning her associate’s degree in arts and science from Inver Hills Community College even before graduating with her high school diploma in 2022.
She then immediately began her bachelor’s in psychology at UW-Stout and graduated in two years, crossing the commencement stage on Dec. 14, along with 510 UW-Stout graduates.
“One of the biggest challenges that I experienced is being so young. I am thankful for the opportunities that I have been given, but it has been hard to finish my education so young because I often feel like I have needed more time to grow,” Webster said.
She plans to continue her education in graduate school and hopes to be accepted into either UW-Stout’s clinical mental health counseling or marriage and family therapy master’s programs.
“Alicia stands out to faculty for not only being a great student but taking on major leadership roles,” said Program Director Sarah Wood.
How well has UW-Stout prepared you to work in your field?
I came to Stout because I really like how the university helps students gain work experience.
I interned as a teaching assistant with one of my psychology professors, Dr. Chelsea Lovejoy, and helped her rewrite her courses. This taught me a lot about how to research topics and expand them for a classroom setting. I really enjoyed learning about the process of course writing through her.
My experience at UW-Stout has taught me a lot. It taught me to work with others.
I was able to meet a lot of new people. The professors in the psychology department are really helpful. I was able to become a better student by discussing topics in class with my peers and professors.
How did your involvement on campus impact your experiences?
I joined Psi Chi, the International Honors Society in Psychology and have served as president and vice president.
Being a part of the executive board has taught me a lot about leadership and planning events around psychology. It also allowed me to have more experiences with the psychology department, like participating in the homecoming parades.
What are you most proud of as you finish your degrees?
I am most proud of the work that I have put into finishing my degree. I am happy with the people who have become a part of my college experience. I really couldn’t imagine my experience being any different.
