Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree within the School of Education?
Having majored in Public Policy Leadership and Psychology as an undergraduate, I always envisioned a career that blended both disciplines. I knew the School of Education would provide the foundation and opportunities necessary to pursue those goals. The School of Education supports, challenges, and invests in each student’s individual growth.
The Counselor Education program at the University of Mississippi provides a unique training experience that sets it apart from other programs. Throughout my graduate journey, I have had the opportunity to work at the University Counseling Center and the Center for Outreach and Personal Enrichment under exceptional supervision. I have been mentored by professors who believe in my potential and have created an environment that encourages growth, curiosity, and excellence. Each faculty member celebrates my successes and supports me through challenges, which truly makes the School of Education feel like home.
Having majored in Public Policy Leadership and Psychology as an undergraduate, I always envisioned a career that blended both disciplines. I knew the School of Education would provide the foundation and opportunities necessary to pursue those goals. The School of Education supports, challenges, and invests in each student’s individual growth.
The Counselor Education program at the University of Mississippi provides a unique training experience that sets it apart from other programs. Throughout my graduate journey, I have had the opportunity to work at the University Counseling Center and the Center for Outreach and Personal Enrichment under exceptional supervision. I have been mentored by professors who believe in my potential and have created an environment that encourages growth, curiosity, and excellence. Each faculty member celebrates my successes and supports me through challenges, which truly makes the School of Education feel like home.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you’ve taken that has had the most impact on you?
Dr. Rick Balkin made a significant impact on my academic and professional journey. During my advanced assessment course, Dr. Balkin shared a research project he was working on, and I reached out afterward expressing my interest in becoming involved. Without hesitation, he welcomed me onto the project.
This experience reflects what makes the Counselor Education and Leadership program so special. Dr. Balkin encouraged me to pursue research and has supported me through each step of the process. His belief in my abilities and commitment to my growth continue to motivate me through long days and challenging moments. Having mentors who invest in my success has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience at the University of Mississippi.
Dr. Rick Balkin made a significant impact on my academic and professional journey. During my advanced assessment course, Dr. Balkin shared a research project he was working on, and I reached out afterward expressing my interest in becoming involved. Without hesitation, he welcomed me onto the project.
This experience reflects what makes the Counselor Education and Leadership program so special. Dr. Balkin encouraged me to pursue research and has supported me through each step of the process. His belief in my abilities and commitment to my growth continue to motivate me through long days and challenging moments. Having mentors who invest in my success has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience at the University of Mississippi.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
Upon graduating from the University of Mississippi with my Ph.D. in Counselor Education, I plan to have completed my 3,000 supervised hours and obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential.
Following graduation, I intend to continue clinical work in Mississippi, providing counseling services to individuals and communities in need. Simultaneously, I aspire to transition into academia, pursuing my long-held goal of becoming a professor at the University of Mississippi, an institution that has deeply shaped my professional and personal journey.
My research interests lie in the development and advancement of mental health policy and the impact free counseling services have on rural communities. I am particularly passionate about contributing to policy reforms that can meaningfully improve access to and quality of mental health care, both in Mississippi and on a national scale. I aim to be a change-maker in every facet of my career.
Upon graduating from the University of Mississippi with my Ph.D. in Counselor Education, I plan to have completed my 3,000 supervised hours and obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential.
Following graduation, I intend to continue clinical work in Mississippi, providing counseling services to individuals and communities in need. Simultaneously, I aspire to transition into academia, pursuing my long-held goal of becoming a professor at the University of Mississippi, an institution that has deeply shaped my professional and personal journey.
My research interests lie in the development and advancement of mental health policy and the impact free counseling services have on rural communities. I am particularly passionate about contributing to policy reforms that can meaningfully improve access to and quality of mental health care, both in Mississippi and on a national scale. I aim to be a change-maker in every facet of my career.