Class of 2023
BA Hons Counselling and Mental Health
IF YOU STUDIED YOUR UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME AT YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES, DID YOU GO ON TO POSTGRADUATE STUDY?
Yes, at York St John University.
JOB:
Academic Associate – York St John University.
WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN THIS PHOTO AS YOUR YSJ SNAPSHOT?
I have chosen these images to represent the excellent mentorship from YSJ’s lecturers and the potential for collaborative research opportunities for those who are passionate about research.
WHAT ARE YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY?
My fondest memories of York St John University include the personal development I have experienced through my undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the opportunity to partake in the research summer school where I discovered my passion for research, and being in the wonderful city of York on our beautiful campus.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES?
My decision to study at York St John University was driven by its strong commitment to social justice and its deep engagement with the local community.
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING SINCE COMPLETING YOUR STUDIES?
Since completing my studies, I went on to the Postgraduate Diploma in Humanistic Counselling. I also worked as a Research Assistant for my former lecturer, Dr. Gary Shepherd at the YSJ Institute for Social Justice. This project was titled the ‘men’s suicide prevention impact and evaluation project’ and we collaborated with the local charity, Menfulness. Alongside this, I counselled students at a local sixth form college. I’m thrilled to have recently secured a position as an Academic Associate within the Social Sciences department, and to have started my PhD, a significant goal of mine. My future aspirations are to continue to build an academic career.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC COURSE?
I chose to study Counselling and Mental Health at York St John University because of its strong emphasis on humanistic approaches. The program’s focus on personal growth, ethical practice, and diverse experiences drew me to it!
WHAT WERE THE BEST FEATURES OF YOUR COURSE?
What I liked best about the Counselling and Mental Health program was that it covered a wide range of theoretical perspectives, but also had a strong focus on practice development. I also valued the strong emphasis on diversity and inclusivity.
WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A CURRENT STUDENT, OR ONE ABOUT TO GRADUATE?
It’s okay not to have everything figured out immediately; the path unfolds over time! Most importantly, take ownership of the incredible amount you’ve learned and honor that journey. Celebrate your wins.