Kaoru Coughlin

Hi, my name is Kaoru.  I am a transfer student from MCC, I moved to Arizona from Tokyo, Japan in 2019 and after the pandemic, I returned to school for the first time in 30 years to pursue a degree in Psychology, which has been my dream since I was in my 20s.

I like to study psychology because I get to know myself, and learning about the human mind and behavior helps to understand your mind.

By studying psychology, I realized that I am becoming more aware of my emotions and thinking habits that tend to lead me to negativity. I think I can positively control my negative feelings.

After earning a BA in Psychology, I plan to pursue a Master of Counseling online to become a licensed professional counselor.

I am also interested in studying for a Master's in Aging. Because in my previous research methods classes (PSY 290), I researched older people and anxiety on technology, that topic intrigued me to study aging study more.

My goal is to develop more critical thinking skills through psychology courses and work for minorities and the elderly as a counselor. I tend to be an introverted person, but I like to challenge new things.

In my spare time, I like to play jazz piano, hike, and travel with my husband. Also, I do yoga and meditation every morning to maintain my mental health and flexibility. My favorite place is Usery Regional Park and my husband and I hike trails every weekend.  I‘m excited to be Sun Devils from this fall semester!