Starting over, finding purpose 

April 14, 2026 - 19:46

Doris Pena, a psychology student at Iowa State University, embodies resilience and redirection. Her journey to campus was far from linear, but each detour solidified her ultimate goal. As a first-generation college student who also navigated the transfer process, Pena faced significant hurdles but transformed them into stepping stones.

She actively sought opportunities to build her experience, immersing herself in psychological research and completing substantive internships. Her involvement with the prestigious McNair Scholars Program was pivotal, providing crucial mentorship and preparing her for advanced academic study. This support system helped her navigate the often-unfamiliar terrain of higher education.

Now, with her sights set on graduate school, Pena reflects on her path with a sense of hard-earned pride. The challenges she overcame have directly fueled her professional passion: a desire to become a counselor. Her unique perspective, shaped by a non-traditional beginning, informs her ambition to guide others through their own struggles. Pena’s story highlights how the winding road can often lead to the most meaningful destinations, turning personal experience into a professional calling dedicated to supporting future students and clients.