Project Re-entry Team Member at the State Appellate Defender Office
About
What do you do as a Project Re-entry Team Member?
Our team works to identify resources in the community that might be able to provide assistance in locating housing, social welfare services, a mentorship program, and other vital services for our clients who has potential to reintegrate into society. This plan is used during mitigation to obtain a term-of-years sentence or eligibility for parole for the client.
Why did you choose to major in Psychology and how has that affected your career thus far?
I choose Psychology because it was very relatable and gave me more insight about things that I encounter daily. Psychology provides you applicable knowledge regarding people's thinking and behavior which has been an asset to my Social Work program. Psychology lays the foundation for so many integral social work concepts like intersectionality, cognitive dissonance, drive reduction, etc.
What was your career path like?
After I graduated in 2016 I traveled to Washington DC for a few months where I worked with Senator Debbie Stabenow office. From there is where I recognized my passion for local political efforts and decided to return hoMe to obtain my masters in Social Work. From here, I hope to continue reintegration work and helping to eliminate barriers for returning citizens.
What is the best career advice that you have received?
The best career advice I have received is to figure out what you DON'T want to do. So often we get overwhelmed with the potential of careers we like or professions to pursue when the easier route is figuring out what you don't care for too much. That revelation should help move you closer to finding your true passion; it's like reverse psychology (see what I did there?)
How has networking helped you thus far in your career?
Mentorship and networking has been a very important part of my journey throughout my undergraduate and graduate career. Many times I find myself networking not just regarding academia, but to understand how others have navigated and managed life in addition to coursework and maximized their success while doing so. It’s truly who you know and not always what you know.
What memories do you have about the Psychology Department here at U of M?
One of my most treasured memories of the Psychology Department was being a peer advisor during my senior year. It was a great experience because I was able to meet so many people with a range of ideas of how to use their Psychology degree. Initially when I graduated I had no clue what I wanted to pursue, but just listening to so many other students gave me the courage to try something outside of my comfort zone. Also the faculty and staff were always so welcoming and courteous. I learned a vast amount of knowledge from just being in the office and speaking with the upper administration about how they use psychology content daily.
