Shavie Va Lee - Choose Stockton
Shavie "Va" Lee
Class of 2026Hometown: Galloway, NJ
Why did you choose Stockton?
The main reason I chose Stockton University was because of its amazing psychology programs. The opportunities to get involved with both the university and its people made my experience really feel like a home away from home. Being able to get an education that is affordable was very important to me and Stockton was able to provide me with that.
How did you choose your major?
The reason I chose to major in Psychology is because countless people suffer from mental health issues such as stress and depression, including myself. I believe that people should be able to express themselves freely and talk openly about their feelings. My dream is to be able to give the best advice possible to help people. This career I’m studying for is my true passion. I genuinely see myself as a psychiatrist and I believe that Stockton can equip me with the educational foundation I need to pursue this goal.
What have you gotten out of your academic program so far?
So far in my academic programming, I’ve learned that many Stockton professors are incredibly dedicated to teaching the topic they specialize in so that students get a general knowledge of the class and how it might benefit them toward whichever degree they wish to major in. Some may be more difficult than others, but at the end of the day, they just want you to get something out of their class and help equip you with tools that will serve great use in the future.
What other opportunities have you had at Stockton?
Stockton has provided me and many others with various events where everyone can socialize. These events are made by the many fantastic organizations here at Stockton, which include the Stockton Entertainment Team (SET), Multicultural Center, Student Development, and many more. You can also join a plethora of clubs and organizations that Stockton provides as well. I am currently a part of the Stockton Horror Society, where we embrace the horror genre and talk about movies, media, books, etc. You can find all of these amazing organizations and clubs on OspreyHub. Opportunities such as these are important because it will help students engage with others that have common interests, helping people to break out of their shells and comfort zones.
How is Stockton preparing you for the next stage of your life?
Stockton has prepared me in many ways. It has helped me socialize and get involved with people and the University, which helped me expand my friend group and got me more into the university community. Stockton has helped me prepare me for the future academically and personally. In the academic sense, I’ve been helped with picking out classes, financial aid, upcoming events or workshops, etc.
What are your career goals?
My career goal consists of me becoming a therapist for couples and families. I would like to help multiple people with their issues in relationships whether it be love or family. Many relationships are affected by many factors, especially mental health, so I want to be there for people, give the best advice, and bring relationships closer together.
What advice do you have for students thinking about attending Stockton?
To people considering coming to Stockton University, some advice I would give you all is first and foremost, BE YOURSELF!! Don’t be someone you’re not in order to fit into a crowd. Here at Stockton, we are a family, and we care about each other no matter what race, gender, sexuality, culture, religion, etc. Another piece of advice I will give is to keep working your hardest and to the very best of your ability to reach your goals. Don’t think of college as a school, think of it as a job where you need to work hard in order to reach your dreams.