From discovering new interests to pursuing ambitious goals, every Badger’s path is different. Meet psychology major and senior Maddie Ballentine and learn about the experiences that have defined her Wisconsin journey.
UWPsych: How did you decide to pursue a psychology major and what do you hope to do with your education?
Maddie: I always knew I wanted a career aimed at helping people and the community and, knowing the stigma around mental health and its resources, it’s a perception that I wanted to help change. I plan on being an art therapist, helping adolescents feel more comfortable accessing the resources and support that I was once afraid to seek. I want to teach people how to support themselves by honing in on their introspection to achieve success, and I aim to use my education to foster community through encouraging growth and self-love.
UWPsych: Tell us about your favorite psychology class so far.
Maddie: I adored taking Psych 453, Psychology of Human Sexuality, with Dr. Chadwick. I think taking such an in-depth and scientific approach to learning about sexuality and the biology/psychology behind it was incredibly eye opening to learn and connect to myself, my relationships, and other people’s life experiences. Dr. Chadwick is an incredible professor with so much knowledge on Human Sexuality and learning from her was so engaging and inspiring; it was thrilling to walk into each class.
UWPsych: How do you spend your time outside of school?
Maddie: I am a part of the wonderful Mental Health Services Student Advisory Board, and I’m a creative consultant and group event facilitator at Wheelhouse Studios. Along with that I am the ’26-’27 WUD Art Committee Director, the Vice President of Marketing for Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc., and a student volunteer for Wisconsin’s Arts for All – SPARK! Program.
UWPsych: Who’s someone who has made a difference in your Badger experience?
Maddie: Shout out to Gabrielle Javier-Cerulli! The support you’ve given me throughout my undergraduate career has been a gift, and I am so incredibly grateful to have a cheerleader like you by my side. Every conversation we have, there’s a surprise tidbit I didn’t know about you and it’s always inspiring to learn about your experiences. Thank you for the opportunities you’ve shown me (shout out MHS SAB!!) and really giving me the confidence I have in pursuing Art Therapy and that being the right path for me <3.