GMU Personal Statement

My name is Shannon Friday and I am a senior at Villanova University who will graduate this May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. A career as a mental health counselor has been a goal of mine due to personal experience and a strong desire to help people, especially those with mental health challenges. My journey toward this goal has been deeply influenced by my own struggles, notably with dyslexia during my schooling years. It was through the guidance and support of my therapist, whom I've been seeing since 2018, that I was able to navigate and overcome my dyslexia diagnosis. My sense of empathy and compassion drives me to want to help make a change in people’s lives. I have had a great deal of experience in this realm for years. My experience

Since I had such a rewarding experience, I want to do the same for others when they are in need. So many people I know have dealt with mental health struggles, which has resulted in me becoming an advocate for mental health de-stigmatization. I want to advocate for the importance of having your feelings and experiences heard. Mental health is a huge issue in our world today, especially with the pandemic shutdown. If I could help in even the smallest way, I would feel satisfied and fulfilled with my impact in society. I chose GMU’s online counseling program because of the flexibility, accreditation, practical experience, faculty, and the services the university offers. I wanted a program that would be flexible so that I could work at my own pace, balancing my studies and work life. Accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) ensures that I will be prepared for licensure and professional practice. Similar to in-person programs, GMU’s online program and coursework provides practical experience through internships, giving real-world skills and exposure to the counselor

I feel my patience will help me guide clients through their personal growth and healing processes. By possessing these interests and qualities, I can contribute to the well-being of others in the mental health counseling field. In my early years grappling with dyslexia, I experienced the challenges of it firsthand, along with the profound satisfaction that comes from acquiring the necessary skills to overcome them, ultimately guiding me to my current achievements. My expectations of learning in an online program consist of having the flexibility that Gwynedd provides, so I can work while continuing on my educational path. Interactive learning with collaborative projects and Zoom meetings with professors and fellow students will aid in making it feel like being in the classroom. I also expect to have access to numerous online resources such as the digital library, research databases, and different online learning materials that will enhance my understanding of each class. I hope to gain networking opportunities with classmates, instructors, and professionals in the field through a variety of virtual events. I also expect the quality of the instruction to be like a traditional in-person