Passion for human behavior drives first-gen student to major in psychology
Natalie Motta will graduate this fall with a degree in psychology from ASU's New College. Courtesy photo
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Natalie Motta is a driven and accomplished young woman who embodies resilience, ambition and a passion for personal growth. At just 20 years old, she is graduating with a psychology degree from ASU's New College at the West Valley campus. As a first-generation college student from a Colombian family, Natalie has navigated her academic journey with determination, balancing her studies with family responsibilities and her involvement in martial arts and salsa dance.
Her love for psychology began in high school, where an introductory class sparked her interest in understanding human behavior. This passion led her to ASU, where she thrived in the supportive and close-knit environment at the West Valley campus. Mentored by influential professors like David Olarte and Pavan Turaga, Natalie not only expanded her academic knowledge but also integrated her hobbies into her studies, teaching salsa and contributing to a unique martial arts and motion capture course.
Natalie’s ultimate goal is to pursue a PsyD in clinical psychology and become a college professor, sharing her knowledge and inspiring future generations. She views “new” as a symbol of transformation and growth, embracing the opportunities her education has provided and looking forward to making a lasting impact in her community and beyond.
Editor's note: Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
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Natalie Motta (front row, far right) at a salsa class, where she served as a teaching assistant for Clinical Assistant Professor David Olarte.
Courtesy photo
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Natalie Motta competing at the World Tang Soo Do Association nationals in Chicago. WTSDA is an international martial arts organization that promotes and preserves the traditional Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do.
Courtesy photo
Question: What sparked your interest in psychology?
Answer: Psychology has always been a gray area in my life. I never really knew what it entailed, but in high school, I took an introductory psychology class that changed everything. I saw how impactful the field can be in helping others, and I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.
Q: Why did you choose ASU’s West Valley campus?
A: I initially started at the Tempe campus and loved it. However, when I learned about the 4+1 accelerated master’s program at West Valley, I decided to transfer. The close-knit community and supportive culture at West Valley really stood out to me. The professors and students make it feel like a small community where everyone knows each other.
Q: How would you describe the professors at West Valley campus?
A: They are phenomenal! Unlike the stereotypes you hear in high school, where professors are seen as unapproachable, the professors here go above and beyond to ensure students succeed. They’re always willing to help and make college feel less intimidating.
Q: Can you tell us about any professors who influenced you the most?
A: Two professors stand out. David Olarte, a salsa instructor at Tempe, mentored me and even encouraged me to teach salsa classes, which has been an incredible experience. At West Valley, Professor Turaga — dean of media arts and sciences — helped me combine my love for martial arts with academics. I’ll be a guest artist in his spring class on martial arts and motion capture, teaching the martial arts portion. Both have made a lasting impact on my life.
Q: How have your hobbies, like martial arts and salsa, tied into your psychology studies?
A: Both activities require understanding people — whether it’s creating a supportive environment in martial arts or helping students express themselves through dance. My psychology background helps me connect with individuals and create the best environment for them. Martial arts and salsa are also great ways for me to express myself and share my passions with others.
Q: What advice would you give to students considering psychology?
A: Go for it! Psychology is an extraordinary field with so many facets, from memory and cognition to behavioral studies. It’s an amazing way to understand people and share that understanding with the world. If you have talents and passions, share them with the world. That’s what I strive to do, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. Together, we can all make the world a better place.
Q: What has been your favorite spot on campus?
A: The Starbucks in the library is the best, hands down. I used to take the bus from Tempe to West early in the morning, and sitting on the sofa next to Starbucks with a coffee was the perfect start to my day. The environment was so welcoming and relaxing.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I’m currently applying for a PsyD program in clinical psychology at Midwestern University in Glendale. My ultimate goal is to become a college professor and give back to the academic community by sharing my knowledge and experiences.
Q: How has being a first-generation college student shaped your journey?
A: It’s been a unique experience. My family is originally from Colombia, and psychology was new to them. But they’ve seen how much I’ve benefited from it, and they’re very proud. I’m glad to bring something new to my family’s story.
Q: What does the word “new” mean to you?
A: “New” represents opportunities and transformation. I graduated high school at 18 and now college at 20. In those two years, I’ve grown so much, met incredible people, and gained amazing opportunities. New College has prepared me to confidently take on the next chapter of my life.
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