Meet: Maria Schaben

May 6, 2024

Maria Schaben

Majors: Psychology

Minors: Criminal Justice
Hometown: McCook, NE

Year: Senior

Why did you select your major(s) and minor(s)? Were there any events or people that convinced you to declare?
I chose my major and minor because I was influenced by a few professors that I had at McCook Community College. When I transferred, all of my Psychology and Criminal Justice courses at UNL were very interesting and well taught, so I decided to stick with them.

What is your favorite course you have taken from your program(s) and why?
I would say my favorite course has been Child Psychopathology. I liked this course because it covered mental health in children and adolescents. Also, my professor, Timothy Nelson, was wonderful to learn from because he is very thorough and very passionate in the topics he taught.

Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
My strongest mentors here have been career coaches and advisors. They always have answers for my questions about career exploration.

Have you had an internship or job? If so, please describe it and explain how your major(s) helped you with it.
I had an internship with the Department of Health and Human Services as a Child and Family Service Specialist Intern. My major, Psychology, has helped me with this opportunity because I was able to communicate with all of my supervisors and the clients that we would visit. I am also able to understand the mental health issues/life stressors that people may be going through.

Did you/are you going to study abroad? If so, describe the experience.
I went on a study abroad with my previous college, McCook Community College, to Ireland. This experience was definitely not only fun but I also learned a lot about my heritage and the history behind the country.

What are your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation are not finalized yet. I plan to take a few weeks off to just relax with family. I am hoping to get a position in human services or anything that helps the community.