CPP Student Spotlight:Tanielle Knox

By Emma Prophet

The College of Professional Programs is excited to highlight Tanielle Knox for CPP’s November Student Spotlight. Tanielle is a freshman majoring in Applied Developmental Psychology. 

Tanielle Knox, Colfax, Washington native, is an Applied Developmental Psychology major at Eastern Washington University with plans to graduate in Winter 2029. She also holds a Pharmacy Assistant certificate. Her passion for psychology stems from her desire to help those around her overcome their mental health challenges. She is pursuing a path toward becoming a mental health therapist. 

Tanielle chose EWU after taking “College in the Classroom” courses in high school and participating in a campus tour. The classes she took through Eastern in high school were in the Psychology, English, Political Science and Communication departments. These courses left a positive impact on Tanielle and further amplified her desire to continue her education at EWU. She immediately connected with the university’s unique, welcoming atmosphere and appreciated the beauty and small-town charm of the campus. Though she is early in her academic journey, she has already felt deeply supported by both EWU faculty and staff. That support has been especially meaningful as she navigates the challenges of leaving home, adjusting to college life, and overcoming the initial fear of not being accepted into college. Tanielle credits this supportive environment and the encouragement of her family, for helping her settle into college life. 

One of the biggest lessons she has learned so far through her studies is that more people struggle with mental health challenges than many realize. This awareness has further propelled her commitment to becoming a mental health therapist. She plans to continue her education after graduation by enrolling in a master’s program to work toward becoming a licensed mental health therapist. To students who may be considering psychology or a related field, Tanielle offers simple but reassuring advice:

“Have an open mind, check things out, and don’t worry if the basic psychology classes are overwhelming, it will be okay!”

She encourages students to give themselves time to adjust and to take it one day at a time. 

When it comes to campus involvement, Tanielle recommends that students check out Cru. She also emphasizes that EWU is an incredibly inclusive and welcoming place which is a message she wants students and the community to hear. For her, the university environment has played a major role in easing her transition to college and giving her a sense of belonging.