Graduate Student Focus | Lyric McNeil

"Hood College has so many connections locally and there are so many opportunities for career advancement that will definitely help me further my career. The counseling program has a very hands-on approach, which is immensely helpful in learning techniques and different theories."

Lyric McNeil, M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Program

Counseling, Clinical Mental Health (M.S.)
Counseling, School Counseling (M.S.)

Department

Psychology & Counseling

Graduate School
Graduate Student

Academics
Social Sciences & Humanities
Awards

01/31/2022

Lyric McNeil is a current graduate student in the clinical mental health counseling, M.S. program at Hood College. Before Hood, she attended Arizona State University, where she graduated with a B.A. in forensic psychology. Lyric is also one of the most recent recipients of the HRSA Scholarship, which is designed to support high-caliber students who want to make a difference in disenfranchised, underserved communities.

Congratulations on being named a recipient of the HRSA Scholarship! Tell us about how you came to apply to this scholarship and what it means to you?

I learned about the HRSA Scholarship in the interview process when I was applying to Hood College. I had mentioned that I had worked my way through my undergraduate degree and was told that I should apply. This scholarship means a lot to me, as it is making it so that I may complete my schooling without going into debt.

Why did you choose Hood College and this program?

I always knew that I wanted to help people, so I had wanted to be a counselor for a while. I chose Hood College's program not only because of its close proximity to where I live but also because of the professors. I did research on the professors before applying and was inspired by their work, especially Dr. Shannon Shoemaker.

What do you enjoy most about being at Hood College?

I love being surrounded by so many intelligent people. Everywhere you go on campus, so many people are open and willing to share their stories, and are also willing to help in any way they can. Everyone is so compassionate and caring. The campus is also absolutely beautiful.

How do you think graduate school will help you in your career and life?

Hood has so many connections locally and there are so many opportunities for career advancement that will definitely help me further my career. The learning format will also help with my career. The counseling program has a very hands-on approach, which is immensely helpful in learning techniques and different theories.

Any other fun facts that you would like to add?

I am so grateful to be a student here at Hood College! There are so many opportunities and great ways to build community even in these pandemic times. I am also so grateful to be working with amazing professors who encourage us to be the best we can be. Hood is a wonderful place, and I am looking forward to my future here.

Inspired by Lyric’s stories and ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn about Hood College’s graduate programs, including the counseling program, by clicking here.