Tasnia Khan
Hometown: Warren, MI
Program: MA with ABA
Book(s) I would recommend: Either Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus or The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Favorite Quote: “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, and how you can still come out of it.” — Maya Angelou
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I am bilingual, but I also know conversational Japanese and a bit of Korean. I can also read and write in both Japanese and Korean.
Name a cause you are passionate about.
I am very passionate about educating and providing knowledge and therapy on mental health to minority communities. As a Bengali Muslim women, I know that mental health is a topic that has been previously and even currently viewed as taboo. I would like to create a safe space for these individuals coming from minority communities and spread knowledge on the importance of taking care of your mental health.
Why did you choose MSP?
I was introduced to the school from a peer who spoke very highly of the program. After attending an open house, I was even more motivated to attend after speaking with faculty and current students. After a long break from school, I finally saw my future in the mental health field after meeting so many like-minded individuals and learning more about the school’s values.
What do you want to do with your degree?
After receiving my degree/certification, I would love to work with the Muslim community or with adolescent women, providing them with a safe space to receive mental health treatment and therapy from an individual that understands their unique struggles. I would also like to educate myself and my peers on the best way to provide therapy for individuals from a minority community.
How did you first get interested in the mental health profession?
As a child, I have always been more empathetic and more observant of other people and their behaviors. This helped me understand human behavior and the human mind. After taking a psychology class in high school, I became very interested in the profession and strived to learn more. I quickly became passionate about gender and sexuality psychology and cross-cultural psychology and believed that I could make a difference in my community by pursuing a career in the field.
