It's Finally Happening: On Pursuit

I first announced my intention of pursuing education beyond a Bachelor’s level in 2015.

At the time, I was a public relations major and aspiring communicator. I remember reading a great deal of journalism at the time, mainly the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. I recall pouring over the words of so-called experts and thought-leaders. I remember asking myself, “What authority does a 30-year-old with a Bachelor’s degree in journalism have?” As many news consumers know, journalists aren’t often the quoted experts themselves (though, sometimes, they are). Oftentimes, journalists seek out researchers and educators to ensure that their words and ideas carry some level of authority.

It was at this point that I realized I wanted to pursue some level of expertise, to pursue a degree, credential and knowledge-base that could safely and properly allow myself to be called an “expert” at anything.

With a Bachelor’s and background in communications, I assumed I would pursue a higher degree in communications. Having a love of theology and philosophy, I shortly considered pursuing an MDiv or similar degree.

Recently, however, something shifted and I happened upon an interest I’ve held since high school.

I’m happy to announce that I have been accepted in to the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Grand Canyon University.

I’ve been very open (at times, arguably too open, cc: potential employers) about my struggles with mental health and addiction. Despite ongoing struggles, my life and my health have improved vastly since 2017. I have been fortunate enough to obtain regular, steady access to the mental healthcare that I so desperately need. Now, I want to help ensure that others have the same access. I’ve always been a very empathic person and always cherished human connection. Now, I can pursue this connection in a professional setting while helping others understand the way they feel, think and wrestle with hardship.

The long-term goal has not changed. I still hope to pursue a PhD and perhaps teach at the collegiate level some day in the future. For now, I’m ecstatic to begin my educational and professional journey to licensure as a professional counselor (LPC).