Graduate Student Spotlight | Stephanie Miller

"Hood has always been a special place for me, so it made sense for me to return. I have so many fond memories of my previous studies at Hood, including the close-knit community and the genuine care and support I received from faculty and staff."

Stephanie Miller '11, M.A.'14, 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

06/17/2024

Stephanie Miller ’11, M.A.’14, is a new student in Hood College’s inaugural counselor education and supervision Ph.D. program beginning this fall. Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in human science from Hood, followed by a post-master’s certificate at Johns Hopkins University. Miller has worked in a variety of settings since becoming a counselor, including a victim advocacy clinic, a residential program for juvenile offenders, community mental health and private practice. We spoke with Miller about her experiences in the mental health field and how the Ph.D. program will have an impacted on her career.

Can you discuss your educational and career background?

I attended Hood College for my bachelor’s degree and my first master’s degree, which was in human sciences. Because Hood did not yet have a clinical counseling program, I completed a post-master’s certification at Johns Hopkins University that provided me with the courses and experience I needed to apply to be a counselor in the state of Maryland. I’ve worked in a variety of settings since becoming a counselor, including a victim advocacy clinic, a residential program for juvenile offenders, community mental health and private practice.

Why did you choose Hood College and this program?

Hood has always been a special place for me, so it made sense for me to return. I have so many fond memories of my previous studies at Hood, including the close-knit community and the genuine care and support I received from faculty and staff.

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

I feel like I learned a lot from my past mistakes! I didn’t always have the best study habits and over the years. I’ve learned to adapt to my own learning style and preferences. I allow myself to take breaks instead of “powering through” and I give myself the space and time to recharge when I can.

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

Again, the community. I love that after all these years have passed, my former professors still know me by name and continue to support my career goals.

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

This program will not only give me opportunities to refine my existing clinical skills, but I will also have the option to pursue teaching in a higher education setting, which is something I’ve always wanted to do.

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?

Go for it, but be prepared for hard work! Think about how your lifestyle might change if you are furthering higher education and prepare for that as much as possible.

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

When I started as an undergraduate student at Hood, I wanted to be an English and theater teacher.

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