Melina Hoyos
M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
School Psychology and Counselor Education
- 2023, William & Mary, Master of Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- 2020, Christopher Newport University, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
What kind of educational and professional experiences did you have prior to beginning this degree?
In high school, I spent my summers volunteering at a teen center and a nearby county's department of social services. I then earned my Bachelor's degree at Christopher Newport University. At Christopher Newport University, I studied psychology, sociology, and Spanish. I was a resident assistant for 3 years and a senior resident assistant my senior year. For 2 years of my undergraduate experience, I was a research assistant in a longitudinal study that was presented at 3 regional conferences. In my first year at William & Mary, I was a Community Director as I navigated through my program.
As a student pursuing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, why did you choose this field?
Mental health is the fabric of everything we know. Working in this field gives me a sense of purpose. Counseling is a delicate practice with grand results. I love how unique each client is and how counselors must be curious and flexible.
What do you hope to be doing after graduation? In 10 or 15 years?
In the future, I plan to be a Licensed Professional Counselor. My future work will focus on multicultural counseling, providing bilingual services in marginalized communities.
Why did you choose to apply to William & Mary and specifically to this program? What sets this degree program apart from those offered at other colleges?
I loved William & Mary because of the faculty expertise and the simultaneous class and clinical experiences. I have read books by my professors and been able to connect what I'm learning in the classroom with what I'm doing in my field experience.
What has been the most influential experience you've had so far in your program?
Working at the Flanagan Counselor Education Clinic (and our partnership team at the Law School's Immigration Clinic) has been incredibly influential to my growth and identity as a counselor.
