Arch Scholars Student Spotlight: Shina Trivedi

Shina Trivedi
she/her
Class of 2024

Arch Program
Peer Mentoring

Major
Psychology and Cognitive Science

Minor 
Sociology

Why did you decide to participate in Arch?
I decided to participate in Arch to find a closer community that could help guide me at Northwestern. At such a prestigious institution, it is really easy for first-generation students, students with greater financial need, and underrepresented students to feel out of place. Through this peer mentoring program, I was able to find others who could relate to how I felt, and it helped me realize that I am not alone! Not only was I able to find a community that related to me, but I forged many friendships as well.

What is one of your favorite memories from Arch?
One thing I love about this program is that my peer mentor from when I was a freshman became one of my friends. My favorite memory would have to be the impromptu Target run we made so we could buy candles. This goes to show that mentor and mentee meet-ups never have to be strictly business, and this program’s purpose is not only to find guidance to succeed at Northwestern, but also to form friendships – even in the most unexpected ways!

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I intend to attend graduate school for a PhD in clinical psychology. I have a great passion for working with mental health, and I hope to one day run my own practice and also get involved in academia as a professor.

What is your favorite class you have taken at Northwestern?
Psychology 306: Introduction to Clinical Psychology