Peyton Berg B’26 advises incoming students to “surround yourself with people who inspire you and make you a better person.” She adds, “There are so many opportunities to meet people, grow, and make the most of your time here. Finding your community is so important.”
Berg speaks from experience. The psychology major from Chatfield, Minn., found her community in both her academics and her extracurriculars, particularly within her close knit softball teammates.
She says her time at Saint Mary’s has been rewarding, both academically and personally. “As a psychology major, my academic experience has been both meaningful and hands-on. I took classes that challenged me to think critically and better understand human behavior, while also strengthening my critical thinking and communication skills. While some classes were challenging, they pushed me to grow and become more confident in my abilities,” she said, adding that her internships with Fernbrook Family Center and Chileda were particularly valuable.
“During my internships, I was able to apply what I learned in the classroom to real-world settings,” she said. “These opportunities gave me a deeper understanding of how psychological concepts are used in practice and helped me develop professional skills like empathy, active listening, and collaboration.
Being a part of the softball team also played a huge role in her college experience. “It taught me discipline, time management, and teamwork while balancing academics,” she said. “I’ve made so many great memories with my teammates, who have truly become like family. I was once told to surround myself with people I want to be like, and I couldn’t be happier that I chose to surround myself with my teammates.”
Outside of athletics, she also was involved with Psychology Club, Student Senate, BUDDIES and the Psychology Honor Society. Balancing academics, athletics, and extracurriculars wasn’t always easy, but Berg said it’s helped her grow, stay organized, and become more confident.
She’s ready for the next chapter in her life, earning a master’s degree in mental health counseling so she can become a mental health therapist and work with adolescents and young adults.
“Overall, my time at Saint Mary’s has shaped me into a more well-rounded and prepared individual,” she said. “Saint Mary’s prepared me for my future by providing a strong psychology program that helped me build a solid foundation for my career. The internship opportunities were especially impactful, as they allowed me to discover my passion and gain real-world experience in the field. These experiences have helped me feel confident and prepared for my next steps.”
