Melissa Malette
- Honours Master of Arts in Psychology (2016)
Melissa earned her Honours Master of Arts in Psychology in 2016. Following graduation, she has been teaching at CÉGEP Heritage College for over nine years, contributing to student learning and academic development in the field of psychology.
“Leave all your doors open. Say yes to every opportunity. My path to teaching psychology, and now taking on the role of associate academic dean, was not linear. I was open to opportunities, enrolled in different types of psychology courses, and by doing so, I figured out what I liked (and did not like).“
Brief description of what I do!
I have been teaching psychology at Cegep Heritage College since 2017. In this role I taught Introduction to Psychology, Mental Health and Wellness, as well as various Research Methods courses. I have recently accepted the role of Associate Academic Dean as of June 1 where I will manage professors and other staff, chair various committees and ensure student success.
What inspired your career path after graduation?
I really enjoyed being part of Monique Senechal’s lab as a research assistant. So much so, I thought I wanted to go into research. I held various research roles in academic and hospital settings. While doing these roles, I was also teaching part-time. Once I taught my first course, I knew I loved it and that’s what I wanted to be doing. I kept accepting any courses that was offered to me to teach, until I became full-time.
How did your experience in the psychology program shape your journey?
I was really fortunate to take classes with fantastic professors, including Monique Senechal, Christopher Motz, and Adelle Forth. Having enthusiastic professors who loved what they did, and who were really knowledgeable was really inspiring. I wanted to help and inspire students the way they did.
What skills or experiences were most valuable after graduation?
Critical thinking skills, synthesizing information, and communication skills.
Do you have a favourite memory from your program at Carleton?
Monique Senechal was my undergrad and graduate supervisor. She challenged me in a way that I did not think was possible. She also provided me with amazing opportunities in her lab, which allowed me to develop skills that are useful today.
What has been a highlight or proud moment in your career so far?
As a professor, the highlights are when students tell me they are pursuing psychology programs in university. I’d like to think I played a small role in that decision.