Addalena's Story

NAME: Addalena Virtus
HOMETOWN: Shippensburg
MAJOR: Psychology 

FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHIPPENSBURG:

The professors know my name and truly care about my success and future endeavors.

TWO INTERESTING THINGS ABOUT ME:

I studied abroad in Bermuda. I participated in Model Organization of American State, which allowed me to meet students from across the hemisphere, who I am still able to keep in contact with.

CAMPUS ORGANIZATIONS/SPORTS/ACTIVITIES:

Honors Program (co-chair of orientation committee); Psi Chi (historian); Student Advisory Board for College of Arts and Sciences; Psychology Club; student member Undergraduate Curriculum Board (for Psychology Department); Teaching Assistant

STUDENT RESEARCH EXPERIENCE:

I am currently on my third year of research with Dr. Angela Bartoli. We have presented at two conferences and are planning on participating in our third this spring. I participated in research on these topics: Mindfulness and the Perception of Free Will; Feedback Giving and Seeking in Relationships; Helping Behavior, Priming and the Role of Attraction.

MOST MEANINGFUL LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT SHIP:

There are two experiences that were wonderful learning experiences at ship. The first was my participation for two years in Model Organization of American States. At this conference we had to draft our own resolutions about problems facing the Western Hemisphere. The class then traveled to D.C. for a week to present and debate the resolutions that we drafted. This class helped to improve my communication skills, debating abilities, the art of compromise and critical thinking. It also allowed me to meet people from across the hemisphere. One of the most interesting things about this class was that you were forced to step outside of the American mindset. The class had to accept the ideas and roles of the countries they were representing. I represented Chile and Guatemala was able to meet with ambassadors of each of these nations.

My study broad experience in Bermuda also enriched my education. I met students from all of the state schools and experienced Bermuda for more than just the beaches. I learned the history and toured historical sites. This trip taught me a lot about the Atlantic world and the impact one small country can have on the world. It also taught me a lot about myself, pushing me to live outside of my comfort zone and explore a new place with people I did not know.

COMMUNITY SERVICE/VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES:

Through the Honors Program, I helped to teach a psychology class to middle school students from Harrisburg and I served as a campus tour guide for these students. I was on the Fundraising Board for an Honors project that raised money for school supplies for children living in the Dominican Republic.

WHAT I DO FOR FUN:

I enjoy spending time with my friends and doing new things with them such as: new restaurants, new shops or new activities. My favorite activity is traveling. I enjoy going to many different places; my favorite place is Washington, D.C. where I enjoy going to the museums and monuments.

MY PLANS AFTER GRADUATION:

I plan on going to graduate school for social psychology with a concentration in political science. After completing my master’s I will then complete my doctoral degree. I aspire to be a college professor.