What is ABA? Why are you interested in pursuing graduate education and training in ABA? What are your long-term goals related to ABA?
The ABA – MS program requires two 180-hour practica. ABA students must complete this requirement at a site affiliated with Hunter College. Please explain your availability to complete this program requirement.
The ABA – MS program also includes a capstone experience in which ABA students must complete either an experimental thesis or a clinical project. Please give an example of a clinical experience you’ve had that might inform your capstone experience
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
My particular interest and plan in studying and attaining a master of science in Applied Behavior Analysis include gaining competent knowledge and skills in order to meet the needs of my clients, such as working with teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder and directly impacting the challenges encountered. Serving others creates a great deal of satisfaction to my life. Although the duties performed by behavior analysts are at times extremely challenging and frustrating, the overall results on the client are worth it all. Analyst becomes rewarded by witnessing their client learn, grow and become successful in life.
ABA working with teenagers with ASD uses ABA techniques and principles to promote essential skills like imitation and listening and more complex skills like reading others facial expressions and understanding their perspectives. Combining techniques gives best outcome for a given patient. ABAS make individualized treatment plans that permit customers to learn and practice skills in a structured and unstructured environment. Working with individuals on the autism spectrum is not limited to serving kids only. As an ABA analyst, I will also assist teens, adolescents, and older persons with ASD in building crucial life skills, transitioning into independent living, carrying out daily tasks such as grocery shopping, and seeking employment opportunities.
My qualities, such as high levels of compassion and listening skills, make me an ideal candidate for the ABA program and for ultimate success in my career. Being compassionate implies the capabilities of remaining objective while at the same time identifying the problems encountered by people. While being compassionate and distanced may seem counterintuitive, they are essential for the career success of an analyst. Lack of empathy and compassion quickly makes an analyst deliver low-quality services. My strong listening skills and immersion in the lives of others also make me a great candidate for the ABA program. As an analyst, one needs to be vigilant and observant to become aware of the nuances and unuttered cues that become easily unnoticed.
Contrary to my strengths, I am overly critical. For example, when I work on a project, I usually feel that I could have delivered more even if my efforts received positive responses. That usually makes me overwork and feel burned out. However, I am nowadays taking time to check my achievements objectively and celebrating the wins.
I have a wide range of experience in the service of others that I firmly believe have a significant impact in shaping the career of my choice. For example, at the Lifestyle for the Disabled Inc., Staten Island, I provided observations, evaluations, and reports to other team players to ensure proper treatment progression. I also served other roles such as guiding and training individuals to develop their living skills, ensuring people are healthy and safe, and maintaining sanitary measures for the clients. I also have experience as an intern in Little Miracle Preschool Eden 11 programs, where through teachers supervision, I worked with children undertaking Applied Behavioral Analysis and discreet trials. I also took part in implementing a behavior management service plan under the supervision of a teacher. Additionally, I maintained a hygienic and safe environment for the clients and helped with behavioral and program data recording in order for individuals to attain their daily goals.
I have also worked in Liberia under challenging circumstances to create awareness on autism and improve the living conditions of underprivileged citizens, for which my pleasure lies. While in Liberia, I started the first autism class and registered non-profit organization with the dedication of supporting persons with intellectual disabilities to live to the highest possible standards.
With the passion and determination to pursue a master of science in ABA, I am confident that the opportunity at Hunter School of education will equip me with the appropriate knowledge and skills to become a competent behavior analyst and team up with other professionals in serving the mentally challenged persons. I loo
