Taylor Shelton
Student Success Story
Clayton State University: Tell us about your academic journey at Clayton State.
Taylor Shelton: I started at Clayton State in the fall of 2020. I was drawn to the university because the clinical/counseling psychology program emphasized training future licensed counselors to be culturally competent, which is something I felt was necessary to be a well-rounded counselor. I finished my application for the Master of Science in Clinical/Counseling Psychology one week before the entire country went into lockdown. I remember being apprehensive about how the faculty would structure the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. I remember only having one in-person class my first semester, which I am very appreciative of. It was easy to create a sense of community within my cohort and I felt that the faculty was very supportive and understanding during the transition to primarily virtual learning. Although I spend most of my time in the program behind a computer screen, I never felt like I was going through this experience alone. I cannot even begin to describe the personal growth I experienced through this program, long video calls with cohort members, and support from the professors.
CSU: Did you face any challenges in trying to complete your degree?
TS: The major challenge I faced in the program was working virtually. Going to graduate school during a pandemic is no easy feat. I pursued a counseling degree due to my love for interacting with others and giving and receiving energy that I thought was only possible in face-to-face interactions. Although the professors were prepared to adjust to teaching in a virtual setting, it was still evident that we were all experiencing challenges and anxiety due to the pandemic. Another major challenge was in securing a practicum site that is required to complete a 600-hour internship as a part of the program. Trying to secure an internship during a pandemic was difficult. I tried to find somewhere on my own at first, but after months of searching and stress, I was able to receive support from the faculty to find a wonderful practicum site. However, yet again it was a virtual setting. I never imagined practicing counseling in a telehealth setting, but with support from supervisors, professors, and my classmates, I was able to adapt and thrive throughout my practicum and academic experience.
CSU: What do you hope to do after graduation?
TS: In all honesty, this has been a difficult question for me to answer. Through my academic work and practicum experience, my area of focus has evolved. Originally, I wanted to work with adolescents and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. However, I have now found myself to be called to work primarily with young adults. This evolution has led to much self-reflection and rethinking the ideas about where I would go post-graduation. Currently, I plan to pursue employment at a private practice, attain my license as a licensed associate professional counselor, and continue to strengthen my counseling skills under experienced counselors in the profession. I hope to be a counselor that can empower my clients to become their authentic selves and believe that they have the power to truly heal and transform their lives.
CSU: What advice would you give other Clayton State students who are working toward accomplishing their dream of obtaining their degree?
TS: I would encourage students to be truly committed to their degree. Although graduate programs are fulfilling, the workload is much more involved and applied than undergraduate degrees. Due to the time demands of the program, I would push students to seek out and genuinely receive support from their families, cohort members, and faculty. Being a graduate student is a unique experience and it helps to surround yourself with people who understand what you are going through. I would also tell students to be adaptable. Through my own journey, I learned that you must be open to everything you learn and truly pay attention to what makes you light up inside.