Graduate Student Spotlight | Hanna Murchake, M.S.'21

"I chose to come back to Hood knowing the high caliber of education that I would receive and the familiarity. As a graduate of the master's program, I saw how well I was prepared by the faculty to enter the workforce and know the Ph.D. program will be the same."

Hanna Murchake, M.S.'21, Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D.

Program

Counselor Education and Supervision (Ph.D.)

Department

Psychology & Counseling

Alumni
Graduate School
Graduate Student

Alumni
Counseling, Care & Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Behavior Graduate Programs
Graduate School
Graduate Student
Psychology

06/12/2024

Hannah Murchake, M.S.’21, is a recent graduate of Hood College’s clinical mental counseling master’s program. Murchake joined the program in 2018 and has been working in the counseling field ever since. Murchake is also set to join Hood’s inaugural counselor education and supervision Ph.D. program this coming fall. We spoke with Murchake about her experiences in the counseling program, how the program has impacted her career and what she is looking forward to in the Ph.D. program.

Can you discuss your educational and career background?

I graduated with my master’s from Hood in 2021 and began working in the field shortly after graduation. Since then, I have worked within multiple levels of care, including inpatient, private practice and community mental health. Currently, I work for Sheppard Pratt Outpatient of Frederick as an off-site therapist as well as for Anchor Counseling Centers as the clinical supervisor of Frederick and psychotherapist.

Why did you choose Hood College and this program?

I decided to become a counselor educator to be able to train the next group of therapists and to have an impact similar to the faculty members that I had. I chose to come back to Hood College knowing the high caliber of education that I would receive and the familiarity. As a graduate of the master’s program in counseling, I saw how well I was prepared by the faculty to enter the workforce and know the Ph.D. program will be the same.

As a graduate student, do you have a certain mindset or learning style that has helped you grow during your studies?

Just trying to take in all ideas and knowing that there is not one right way to solve a problem has been important. Graduate school is amazing in the way everyone’s ideas flow together and you can build off one another.

What do you currently enjoy the most about being at Hood College?

I really enjoy the closeness of the peers in the program and individual connections that you make with both students and faculty members.

How do you think it does or will help you in your career and life?

Studying to be a counselor educator and supervisor will help me grow to become a mentor and also create an impact on the future of the counseling field. One day, I would like to be supervising and leading other counselors to become the best that they can be to help their clients.

What advice would you like to give to either your peers or an undergraduate who may be considering taking their education to the next level?

Just take a leap and do the scary thing. Many times, our own self-doubt holds us back, and by just giving it a try, you come out stronger. Graduate school is certainly stressful, but the journey is the best part of it all, so enjoy it.

Any other information or fun facts that you would like to provide?

Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy being outside with a good book or some sewing.

Inspired by Hanna’s accomplishments in the mental health field? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s graduate programs, including our newcounselor education and supervision Ph.D. program, by clicking here.