What Lies Ahead

This is the conclusion to the paper I am writing about my personal and professional growth since starting the program. Even tho I have excluded the 12 or so pages in between, you get the point as to what its about.....I think this ending makes up enough for the beginning, yes? I guess we shall see. Enjoy!

Since moving to Wisconsin I have continued down my path of self-discovery and self-improvement, pushing myself in the areas of personal, professional, and spiritual growth. The program has helped enhance and reassure my ability to become a more complete and centered individual. I am confident that I will be able to continue this in a healthy way post graduation.

With my graduate school experience nearly half completed, I can feel myself begin to get anxious over what my future holds. I know that because of the education I am getting at Stout, I will graduate a competent and professional mental health counselor. It is because of this educational experience that I have realized my calling in life and been able to access the means in which to explore that calling. I try to frame every day as an opportunity to learn more about myself and the ways in which I am personally capable of helping others achieve their own meaningful life.

I acknowledge the vast amount of knowledge I have to acquire before I will be fully prepared to set foot in the professional world of counseling. I know that the remainder of my coursework and internship experience will provide me with this knowledge. I intend on absorbing as much as possible so that I can continue to develop my sense of professionalism and personal counseling style.

Overall, I believe that my future is bright and will lead to fulfilling opportunities in which I help others make a difference within their lives. I see myself pursuing a career in crisis intervention and counseling for individuals whom engage in self-injurious behavior and those with suicidal ideation. I see myself doing this in a residential setting for adolescents and young adults. Before I make it to that point in my career, I have no doubt that I will continue to have amazing opportunities because of the education and experiences I have acquired during my time at Stout. I feel extremely blessed and appreciative to have this rich opportunity.