"Some of the most rewarding parts of the PsyD program is the amount of knowledge I’ve learned in such a short amount of time, the professors and how encouraging and knowledgeable they’ve been and the wonderful camaraderie within my cohort! The whole program has been amazing in its support and preparation .... "
Quick Facts
Program: Clinical Psychology, PsyD
Hometown: Claremore, Oklahoma
Current City: Riverside, California
Life at CBU
What inspired you to pursue a doctorate in Psychology?
I’ve always loved psychology and hold the belief that psychology serves as the foundation
for connection between people. I originally was attending medical school to become
a psychiatrist but since I wanted to sit with the patients and discuss the issues
before prescribing medications, I realized that a psychologist was a better fit for
me than a psychiatrist.
What does a typical week look like for you?
The weeks look different depending on the semester. My second-year week looks like
class on Mondays and Wednesdays, research lab before class on Mondays, practicum meetings
on Tuesday mornings and Friday afternoons, and client appointments throughout the
week. I also work on campus in the Graduate Admissions office, so my schedule varies
day to day! During my time away from class, the office, and practicum, I spend a lot
of time at home studying and reading for fun or going to the gym. I try to keep Sundays
free, prioritizing church attendance and making time to call my family. Everyone’s
week looks a bit different outside of classes, which is great since everyone works
best in different ways!
How do you balance coursework, practicum experiences, work and personal life?
A lot of scheduling, prioritizing and many calendars! I try not to let assignments
or readings pile up until the deadline, which is very different from my undergraduate
days. I also have to make sure to reflect on my “battery”, so I don’t burn myself
out... I make time to do things I enjoy and to connect with loved ones.
What has been the most rewarding part of the program?
It is hard to pick just one thing. Some of the most rewarding parts of the PsyD program
is the amount of knowledge I’ve learned in such a short amount of time, the professors
and how encouraging and knowledgeable they’ve been and the wonderful camaraderie within
my cohort! The whole program has been amazing in its support and preparation for me
to see clients this year.
What area of psychology are you most interested in pursuing?
I’m interested in the Forensics elective track, specifically with the juvenile population.
But I am also keeping an open mind to see if God places a new interest in my life
during practicum this year!
How has the PsyD program helped prepare you for your future profession?
The knowledge I've accumulated has prepared me immensely, and there’s still so much
to learn! The professors are very helpful in and out of class; the cohort members
are supportive of one another and assist in areas where others are unsure; and the
school has so many resources that have helped me in my studies!
How would you describe the culture and community within the PsyD program?
It’s honestly like family; everyone is so supportive and respectful! Our cohort started
celebrating every person’s birthday in class, we’ve done group outings to dinner,
and we have great relationships with [our] professors as well.
What advice would you give to new students entering the program?
Use your resources! The professors and school are here to help you succeed, but they
can’t help what they don’t know; ask your peers for help if you need it. Your cohort
is stuck together for the next five years, so be there for one another… you’ll be
experiencing some big life moments together!
Also, remember your “why”. This program can be difficult, but it helps to remind yourself why you are getting your doctorate, why you chose this school and why you are here.
Lastly, be professional and respectful to your professors and peers. They will be your colleagues in five years, so it is important to treat them as such now!
What message would you like to share with prospective students considering the PsyD
program?
I absolutely love this program, but don’t just take my word for it. Do your own research
into pass rates, talk to professors and students or come visit campus! This is a big
decision that deserves the time and effort to determine whether you would be a good
fit for the program, and whether the program would be a good fit for you. CBU has
an amazing PsyD program and is an excellent school; hopefully you will consider joining
me as a Lancer!