Posts by Michaela Gibson
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Are you considering starting your master's degree, but it never feels like quite the right time?
Are you a current graduate student wondering, can I really manage this all? Michaela shares her experience in the M.A. in Counseling program – and encouragement to go for it!
A Note for Graduate Students–You Can Do It!
If you’re reading this and questioning if it’s the right move, the right time, or the right place to begin a master’s program, take this as your sign to say YES to a wonderful and unexpected adventure.
My name is Michaela and I’m a graduate student in Northwestern’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Before I officially began this journey I already worked full-time, coached high school soccer, and was a social individual. My biggest fear was not having the time or energy to survive the program.
"My mindset began to shift from “IF I finish this program” to “WHEN I finish the program"
Here’s the thing though – when you feel a strong sense of calling for your life, you’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen. While it was an adjustment in the beginning, I have learned how to balance work, my social life, and school so it feels like a perfect fit. On top of that, the nature of the program (exclusively online) has allowed me even more opportunities to tweak my schedule as needed and still complete assignments each week. My mindset began to shift from “IF I finish this program” to “WHEN I finish the program.”
I cannot say enough good things about Northwestern, my professors and classmates, and my overall experience in the counseling program so far. The amount of support I receive each week from others in the program is astounding and it keeps me motivated to work toward my goals. So, if you’re still wondering, say YES today. Start your journey now. You will not regret it.
