Deeply Known
Caitlin’s choice to major in sociology arose from a conviction that serving others starts with critical thinking and cultural understanding. A former NEXT Program mentor and student ambassador, Caitlin provides therapy for children with autism while also preparing to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam. As she celebrates milestones with her young clients and their caregivers, Caitlin views each person as an individual on a unique journey—just as her professors modeled for her.What are some of your job responsibilities as a registered behavior technician?
I provide one-on-one intensive early intervention behavioral therapy services for children with autism (ages 2 through 6). I build relationships with my clients through play, where we are able to work on social skills, developmental milestones, barriers to learning and challenging behavior, and communication skills.
What are the most satisfying aspects of your career?
What I enjoy most is seeing my clients progress and meet their goals, no matter how small. My ultimate goal is to assist my clients’ growth towards independence. Where there is learning and growth, there is celebration.
What led you to decide to study sociology?
I chose to pursue a sociology major alongside my psychology major, as sociology helped me understand people’s backgrounds and the life events that may have influenced their current reality. It helps me to have compassion for others and to seek to understand rather than assume.
How did NWC prepare you for what you’re doing now?
Northwestern taught me how to work hard in my career while following the call of God. The rigorous academics challenged me to think critically, which is an imperative aspect of my job and helps me continue my studies in grad school. In my career now, having a cultural understanding of others has helped me to develop goals that are socially significant to my clients and their caregivers—not necessarily what the world might deem as “normal.”
What are the strengths of Northwestern’s sociology major?
Northwestern’s sociology major focuses on thinking critically and looking at groups of people and social issues from all perspectives. I believe the sociology department does an excellent job of not telling you what is the “right” perspective. The professors push you to think for yourself and to have respectful discussions where you are able to learn from others. The sociology major established confidence in my ability to think for myself alongside developing my confidence and faith in God.