Cara Tan

Professor, Psychology

Degrees:
Pacific Union College. B.S.
Claremont Graduate University, M.A., Ph.D. (in progress)

Bio:
I'm a social psychologist, and teach psychology here at Mt. SAC. I was very lucky to have had some incredible college professors who cared about me (and their other students). They didn't just care about my grades and academic success, they also cared about my success in my personal relationships and goals. I struggled a lot with anxiety and depression, still do, but their support gave me the means and motivation to find my passion and reach for my goals. I hope that I can "pay it forward" and be part of that journey for my students. 

Why do you like participating in the Mountie Mentor Program?
Getting to know lots of people! Having a community and support network is so important. Whether you need advice on what classes to take, a study group to keep up your motivation, or just people you can vent to. Humans are social creatures, and the Mountie Mentor Program is a great way to make connections to people who really care.

Advice for students:
We're all human, nobody is perfect. What matters isn't that you stumble - it's that you continue to stand and move forward. And the best part is that you don't have to do that alone! Nobody will judge you for reaching out for a hand when you struggle or find support as you work toward your goals. In fact, asking for help and using the resources you have access to shows that you're smart and humble. You'd never expect a carpenter to make a table without power tools; just because you can do something without help doesn't mean it's better. Use the tools you've got so you can do your best work!