Happy Friday!
The other day I was looking through the blog and realized it’s been a while since I’ve shared a life update. The kind of update about all that adult-ish fuss. I think the last time I wrote about the Counselor Education Master’s Program was during my first semester.
As cliche as it sounds, time really does seem to pass by. I cannot believe the past 2.5 years will come to a close next week. In case you’re wondering what I’ve been up to, let me fill you in.
When I started the program, I was really conflicted on whether I wanted to go the mental health or school counseling route. Both options had unique opportunities, but I knew deep down that I wanted to help students. My program consists of 72 credits, including practicum and internship opportunities. At the end of the program I’ll have spent over 1,000 clinical hours working in a school setting (wild).
I will admit that I never saw myself working with small children in grades K-5. But I should’ve learned to bite my tongue because I sure do love working with this population. There’s just something so endearing to see the world from a child’s perspective. For my practicum experience, I was at a local elementary school under the guidance of the BEST elementary school counselor. Seriously, she is an actual wonder woman with the kindest heart.
While I was powering my way through the program, I also worked as a graduate assistant for the UF Dean of Students Office. I was part of the Care Team, which assists with the UMatter, We Care initiative. I learned a lot about how to work with students, families and other stakeholders through this position. I will always cherish the bonds I built with my supervisors. They are the very best advocates and mentors anyone could have! I am forever grateful for this experience.
These past few years have been packed with late nights, early mornings, group projects (sigh), certification exams (ugh) and some of the best people I’ve ever met (yay!). My School Counseling Girls will always have a special place in my heart. They are kind, compassionate, loyal and loving – everything you need to be a great counselor.
While I’m sad for this journey to come to an end, I cannot wait to see what the future has in store. Curious about what I’m going to do next? Yeah, me too! I’ll keep y’all updated on what happens.
Orange Blossom Belle 