I've worked as a graduate assistant for both the Center for Access and Success and for the Department of Student Conduct for the past three years. I was given the opportunity to work closely with both university students and seasoned higher education professionals in several student life arenas.

In addition, the collaborative nature of the master's degree program in clinical psychology has fostered numerous productive relationships among peers, faculty members, as well as internship supervisors and personnel. I've gained such a tremendous appreciation for collaborative and holistic approaches in any professional arena.

I've learned so much from my experience at UMass Dartmouth, and it has extended well beyond the academic arena. To determine the most significant thing I've learned is difficult. I can say with the highest certainty that the harder the challenge, the greater the satisfaction in overcoming it.

At the beginning of my graduate career at UMass Dartmouth, I was incredibly insecure and anxious about any performance-related activity. Most days felt like a balancing act between excitement about new and challenging endeavors and worry about my capabilities. Again, through unwavering support and encouragement of family, faculty, peers and many others that comprise our UMass community, I've developed the confidence and certainty in myself to pursue my goals, however challenging I might perceive them.

It's truly been through the continued support and encouragement from my family, friends, the psychology department faculty, Student Affairs staff, fellow graduate students, and several other members within the UMass Dartmouth community that I've been able to succeed. There are truly no words to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me.

Special thanks to Mary Beckwith, Coordinator of Student Conduct and Dispute Resolution—I'll be forever grateful for her support.