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Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology (CCSP)
Student Perspectives
Jasmin Llamas, M.A.
Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Student
What is my background?
I received my B.S. in combined sciences and psychology from Santa Clara University in 2006. I received my M.A. in counseling psychology with a Latino emphasis at Santa Clara University in 2009. During my undergraduate years I was a research assistant on several projects and worked in juvenile hall my senior year of college. I served as a grant coordinator for a state funded bullying prevention grant in low-income high schools. From 2005-2009 I worked full-time as a data analyst and research associate in the Data Analysis and Evaluation unit of Santa Clara County, Department of Alcohol and Drug Services.
Why did I choose UCSB?
A unique part of the program that was of particular appeal, was the combined aspect as well as the multicultural focus. Although a counseling student, I felt this program would supply me with a breadth of knowledge in both the clinical and school fields. Having a Latino emphasis in my master's program, I was interested in finding another program that was as dedicated to underserved populations. I was also interested in the opportunity to develop both my qualitative and quantitative skills.
What are my research projects like/what is a typical day like?
As a counseling psychology student, I spend on average 15-20 hours a week at a counseling site (currently I am at the psychiatric unit at Cottage Hospital) and work on research projects for approximately 10-15 hours per week. At Cottage Hospital, I work with nurses, social workers, and psychiatrists, conducting assessments and group therapy. Having entered with my masters, I have taken 4 courses a quarter and will also be working towards another masters in Research Methodology. I meet with my advisor, Dr. Melissa Morgan weekly to prepare for comprehensive exams and work on research projects.
What advice do I have for incoming students in Counseling Psychology?
Try not to stress on the little things and focus on the big picture. Faculty is there to help; be open to asking questions and exploring various aspects of the field. You don't have to have all the answers; you don't have to know what you want to do with the rest of your life, but be willing to explore the many opportunities that come your way. Lastly, there will be MANY opportunities; you cannot possibly do it all! Do what you can, but know your limits and pick and choose wisely.
Matthew Ruderman, B.A.
School Psychology Ph.D. Student
What is my background?
The appeal of school psychology stems predominantly from my background in working with children. I attended Chapman University in Orange, CA for my undergraduate studies. In addition to majoring in psychology, my previous experiences as a camp counselor, working and interning at a preschool, volunteering at a children’s hospital, tutoring students at the college level, and teaching after school enrichment programs to elementary school students had given me a keen insight into what it takes to work effectively with children and families. Initially, the task of finding a graduate program suited for me was a difficult one. The only certainty was that whichever path I chose, I knew I wanted to make a difference. When starting the application process, I was struggling to make a decision between the dictates of my mind and the dictates of my heart. My mind, logical and analytical in nature, was pushing me toward the harder and applied sciences. Conversely, my heart was telling me to pursue a career encompassing my passion and talents; working with children. School psychology is a synthesis of the two.
Why did I choose UCSB?
The weather! In reality, the immediate appeal of the program was its combined nature and scientist-practitioner model; training across counseling, clinical, and school psychology separates this program from many others around the country. Similarly, the prestige of the program made me confident that I would leave here prepared to help children regardless of the career path I chose. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the CCSP community was warm and welcoming.
What are my research projects like/what is a typical day like?
Currently, my research project examines how protective factors (i.e., school connectedness, hope, empathy, and/or self-efficacy) vary among individuals perceived to be in the bullying process. Additionally, I have had opportunities to work on several other projects within my lab (including articles and book chapters), as well as become involved with research projects conducted by other faculty. My research has also afforded me the opportunities to work with students, parents, and teachers, as well as make several paper and poster presentations at state and national conferences. As a school psychology student, I spend on average 10-15 hours a week working in the schools. A typical day at a site included assessment (e.g., cognitive, behavioral), brief solution-focused counseling, consultation with teachers, and report writing. For the first two years, weeks are typically full with classes, practicum, and research (and Tupperware lunches!). Currently, I am primarily focused on research and preparing for my comprehensive exams.
What advice do I have for incoming students in school psychology?
1) Remind yourself why you are here... It can be easy to lose sight of this amidst the chaos.
2) Every little thing counts. Whether it is teaching a preschooler how to write his or her name or helping a college student who is struggling with school, it is extremely gratifying to know that you are making a positive difference in a child’s life.
3) Lean on your friends and don't be afraid to ask for help (cue Lean on Me by Bill Withers).
4) Breathe.. Laugh. Somehow, everything gets done. THIS TOO SHALL PASS.
Nelly Rivera, B.A.
School Psychology M.Ed. Student
What is my background?
I attended University of California, Riverside for my undergraduate education where I double majored in Psychology and Sociology. During my undergraduate career, I took various courses focusing on social factors affecting students’ learning abilities, the cognitive and social development of children, and the impact of urban problems on family welfare. As a research assistant, I worked in two research labs focusing on the effect of stereotype activation on an ethnic minority and was also trained to do microanalysis of nonverbal behavior and verbal disfluencies. Additionally, I held an internship at a local middle school as a counseling intern where I got the opportunity to work with suspended students and their parents in order to ensure a positive relationship with the pupil and their families. The vast array of personal educational experiences, courses, research labs, and my internship sparked my interest in the educational development of children guiding me to the field of school psychology.
Why did I choose UCSB?
Being able to incorporate theory into practice through UCSB’s scientist-practitioner model across the three emphases was the ultimate deciding factor when I chose to attend UCSB. I felt that being professionally trained in all three emphases would equip me with valuable skills to help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Furthermore, the genuineness and enthusiasm of the faculty radiated during interview weekend. Knowing that the faculty shared my passion for the education system, social justice, and student welfare was another key deciding factor to attend UCSB.
What are my research projects like/what is a typical day like?
As a school psychology student, my typical week includes going to class, doing research, and going to my school site. I am enrolled in 4-5 classes per quarter. During my first year, I spent a total of 3 hours per week at a school site where I established rapport with students and teachers within the classroom. During second year, I will be at a school site for about 10-15 hours working with a school psychologist to help with the administration of cognitive and achievement assessments, running social skills groups, and writing psychoeducational reports. I meet with my advisor, Dr. Jill Sharkey often to discuss current project updates and to check in on my progress in the program.
What advice do I have for incoming students in School Psychology?
To keep setting goals to continue to grow as people and professionals. Most importantly, to be confident in their skills and abilities.
Jenny Hughes, B.A.
Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Student
What is my background?
I graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2006 with a degree in Psychology and Spanish. After my undergraduate studies, I chose to take some time off from school to work in the field of psychology. I was a Youth Advocate for two years, working as a mentor with at risk children and adolescents. At the same time, I also worked as a research assistant at the University of Denver, researching cognitive-behavioral treatment for adolescent depression. During my third year out of school, I worked as a full-time research assistant at the Kempe Center in Denver, Colorado studying a mentoring intervention for children placed in out of home care. As a result of these experiences and my personal interests, I was able to identify substance abuse and child abuse and neglect as my primary areas of emphasis in graduate school.
Why did I choose UCSB?
I chose UCSB because of the combined program and the current research being conducted by faculty. I was interested in the combined program because it offers a wider variety of opportunities because I am able to collaborate with students and faculty outside of the clinical emphasis. At the same time, I am also receiving the specialized training I need to be a clinical psychologist. There is also a wide range of ground-breaking research being conducted at UCSB. My advisor focuses on substance abuse and child abuse and neglect research, which was a perfect match for my interests and needs.
What are my research projects like/what is a typical day like?
I’m not sure if there is such thing as a “typical day” for a graduate student, but in a typical week I am in the lab 20 hours per week, and with clients at my externship site another 20 hours per week. As a third year, I do not have many classes left, but still need to commit about 6 hours of my time per week to course work. Additionally, I am working on my Qualifying Exam papers, which constitutes a great deal of my time. If that weren’t enough, I make sure to schedule in some time for me, whether that be taking my dog to the beach, hanging out with friends, or simply enjoying life in Santa Barbara. My experience in the lab and the program in general has been one of collaboration and support from my fellow graduate students and my advisor. I am constantly stimulated by my research projects, clinical work, and interactions with my peers and faculty.
What advice do I have for incoming students in Clinical Psychology?
Be clear on your goals, but remain open-minded and flexible. Ask for help when you need it, and remember that you got into this program for a reason; you are not an imposter!! Finally, although school is a priority, self-care needs to be high up on the list, if not your first priority. You can’t do well in your program or help your clients if you aren’t taking care of yourself and your needs.
