Hometown: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Degree: PhD in Clinical Psychology
What was your most impactful class or professor? My advisor, Dr. Thane Erickson, has been the most impactful professor in my training. I had the opportunity to work with him in several different settings, from being his TA to taking his classes and conducting research in his lab. I have learned a great deal from him, but his influence on how I practice as a clinician has been especially meaningful. I am grateful for his guidance and support throughout this program, and SPU is fortunate to have him.
What do you enjoy most about your degree? I enjoy being able to support people in building their resilience. It is an honor to do the work that I do, and I appreciate that my degree provides flexibility in how I can apply my skills — whether through research, teaching, clinical work, or some combination of all three.
How have you grown during your time at SPU? I have developed a new level of confidence in myself as a person, researcher, and clinician. I feel more grounded in who I am, and while there will always be room to grow, I feel like I have become someone that my first-year self would be proud of.
What advice do you have for incoming doctoral students? Prioritize work-life balance as much as possible. There is a lot to navigate throughout the program, but making time for your hobbies, relationships, and other interests will help you show up as your best self in both your work and your life outside of graduate school.