Throughout my undergraduate journey as a double major in Psychology and Religious Studies, I have explored the intricate relationship between science and faith. My experiences have allowed me to investigate how different perspectives influence our understanding of human behavior, suffering, and healing. This artifact, "Healing vs Cure," represents my exploration of biomedical and Ayurvedic approaches to healing, interwoven with cultural and religious perspectives. This project is deeply personal, as it reflects on the story of my mother and how her grief shaped my understanding of healing.

My intended audience includes prospective honors students, psychology majors, religious students, and those passionate about addiction neuroscience, pursuing a double major, or public speaking. Through this work, I hope to encourage discussions about how psychological, spiritual, and cultural beliefs interact in the healing process.

(Fall 2023)

Click to Read

Introduction

Primary Artifact: Healing vs Cure

This project provides a multidimensional approach that challenges the notion that traditional medicine is the only path to healing. It questions the conventional perspectives held by many in the scientific community and explores how biomedicine and Ayurveda each contribute to the broader concept of healing. It presents a case study of a 60-year-old woman suffering from grief-related illness (Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, also known as "Broken Heart Syndrome") and evaluates the role of culture, faith, and medicine in her journey.

Key Takeaways from the Artifact:

Psychological & Medical Perspective: The role of emotional trauma in physiological health.
Ayurveda & Holistic Healing: Understanding alternative medicine beyond biomedicine.
Religious & Cultural Views: How faith and societal norms shape perceptions of illness and recovery.
Personal Connection: Using my mother's story as a lens to explore broader themes of healing.

Read Article

Additional Artifacts

1. Public Speaking:

Honoring Faith & Science

One of my most transformative undergraduate experiences was presenting my research at a student symposium on the intersection of religion and neuroscience in addiction recovery. I discussed how religious coping mechanisms influence rehabilitation and how neuroscientific findings support or challenge these beliefs. This experience honed my ability to communicate complex interdisciplinary ideas and strengthened my passion for public speaking.

2. Honors Course Project: Psychological Interventions in Faith-Based Communities

In an HON-H398 course, I developed a research paper on mental health interventions in religious communities, emphasizing how psychology can bridge gaps between faith-based and scientific approaches to mental wellness. The project provided me with valuable skills in academic writing, interdisciplinary research, and critical thinking, while reinforcing my commitment to understanding mental health through both scientific and spiritual lenses.

Reflection

A Scholar’s Mind: Thinking Beyond Boundaries

Reflecting on my academic journey, I recognize the importance of critical thinking and interdisciplinary exploration. My studies in Psychology and Religious Studies have shown me that healing is not just a medical outcome but a psychological, cultural, and relational experience. This challenges the traditional biomedical approach that often overlooks holistic and faith-based perspectives.

Through my experiences, I have learned to question assumptions, integrate diverse viewpoints, and examine issues from multiple angles. Whether studying mirror neurons in empathy, cultural healing practices, or religious narratives, I have come to appreciate the complexity of human experience.

Furthermore, critical thinking is essential for students of any discipline. Knowledge is never one-dimensional; combining perspectives from science, religion, and the humanities allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the world. The ability to analyze concepts, challenge dominant narratives, and remain open to multiple interpretations is crucial for both academic and personal growth.

My growth in public speaking, research, and writing has been instrumental in shaping my academic identity. This ePortfolio serves as both a reflection of my learning and an encouragement for others to explore the connections between science and spirituality in ways that challenge conventional thinking.

​​