Jaira Hilbert
Ed.S. in School Psychology
School Psychology and Counselor Education
- 2023, William & Mary, Education Specialist, School Psychology
- 2021, William & Mary, Master of Education, School Psychology
- 2019, George Mason University, Bachelor of Science, Psychology
What kind of educational and professional experiences did you have prior to beginning this degree?
After I graduated from George Mason, I moved back to Chesapeake and worked as a mental health technician at a behavioral health center for youth in Norfolk. I worked there for about 9 months before starting the School Psychology program here. I earned my Master's of Education in May of 2021 and I feel like I still have so much to learn about my field but I welcome it with open arms.
As a student pursuing an education specialist degree in School Psychology, why did you choose this field?
I've always been interested in the mental health of children and I've worked with kids in some way since high school. So working to become a mental health provider in schools comes very naturally to me. My main goal is to provide mental health education to minority families and students to make that information and type of healthcare more accessible and less daunting. I believe that community collaboration would definitely be vital to this goal. My professors are very inspiring to me and I hope to make as great an impact on my community as they have.
What do you hope to be doing after graduation? In 10 or 15 years?
After graduation, I hope to be working in a school district that is supportive of my professional identity and the path I've chosen for myself. In 10-15 years, I hope to have implemented systems-level change and programs within the school that targets the needs of the students and serve families in the community.
Why did you choose William & Mary and specifically your degree program? What sets this degree program apart from those offered at other colleges?
I chose William & Mary because I simply felt it was the right decision for me. I could have returned to George Mason to work through this program but I wanted to experience something new and so far I'm happy with my decision.
What has been the most influential experience you've had so far in your program?
So far the most influential experience would be volunteering with the Success of Students (SOS) program directed by Dr. Parker and Dr. Haskins. I was a tutor/interventionist that helped provide academic interventions to a student in the Williamsburg community. The program also offered emotional and behavioral interventions as well as presentations educating families on different topics. It was a great experience with community collaboration and I hope to be doing more of that type of work both next semester and after graduation.
