Carla

About Me

My degree in Applied Psychology from University College Cork has provided me with a great depth of knowledge in the areas of individual differences, child and adolescent development, and special educational needs. I consider a biopsychosocial model of behaviour when handling challenging situations with others. I am aware of the aetiology of many special educational needs and the supports commonly put in place to promote the best environment for learning for these individuals. I also understand the importance of focusing on the strengths of those with additional needs.

I have a great interest in the local arts scene. I frequently attend performances by local musicians and literature events where local writers read their work. Cork has a deeply rich artistic culture, and I believe this is beneficial to local children and young people for the development of past times and a strong sense of self.

My role as a pharmacy technician has given me notable teamwork experience, where strong communication skills are necessary for the safe and careful dispensing of medication, and the everyday running of the pharmacy.

My appreciation for individual differences would also be an asset to any work place. In college, one of our assignments required us to take a statistically sound values and strengths test (via values and strengths test). My results showed my top strengths to be the ‘Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence’ and ‘Kindness’. My appreciation of the beauty in everyday things, including individual differences, is beneficial when working with children, in helping them identify their strengths and what makes them exceptional.
Moreover, I have recently completed a qqi level 6 in special needs assisting, and have experience as a helpline volunteer, a creative writing workshop volunteer, as class rep for my final year of university, and I acted as peer support for incoming first years when I was in my final year of uni.