Dear readers,

This fall quarter has brought another tapestry of experiences to our community, individually and as a society. We continue to work towards making our world a better place, growing as students and young professionals, and finding our place. The field of school psychology asks much of us, and the depth and breadth of possible experiences and change-making is what drew many of us here in the first place. Yet we must strive to find ways to continue to cultivate our rich lives alongside and outside our professional passion. Included here in this edition are select pieces that highlight this important balance and the ever-evolving dynamic of our graduate school lives. You’ve made it through another quarter! Take a moment to sit back and read about your fellow students, and collect some ideas for how to enjoy your break!

Happy Holidays!

- Peak to Peak

Fall 2021

Hi Second Year School Psychology Practicum Students:

I am teaching the first year Child and Adolescent class this spring quarter and would like to further emphasize “real world” application of developmental theory and research. I would like get some of your ideas and input I also realize that I have missed out not having a chance to get to know or interact with you all via a class. So next Q, if you are interested in discussing these and other ideas for revamping the C&A Development course, I will be holding several face-to-face (or virtual) shared 1-hour conversations on Friday afternoons, most likely between 2-4:30 (to be decided once I secure a room). Please feel free to drop in for these conversations on any or all of the following Fridays: Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 25, and March 18. Let me know if you are interested and I will send out the time and place (or zoom link) once I secure a meeting space. Thanks so much in advance for sending me your ideas. I look forward to further discussions with some of you next Q.

Have a wonderful warm and memory-filled holiday season.

Sincerely,

Dr. Gloria Miller

Application Season is here!

Whether it is for a practicum experience, an internship, or post graduate career, having a good plan in addition to a solid CV as well as acing the interview are important parts of obtaining a position you will thrive in.

Preparation Steps

1. Get clear on what type of experience you are looking for.

2. Compile a list of strengths, including what knowledge and skillset you can contribute to the position.

3. Research potential positions on sites like Glassdoor, Indeed, Job.com and SimplyHired.

4. Once you find a position, research the company. Get a sense of how the organization operates, look into their mission statement, read their history and plans for the future. Their social media accounts can give insight into the company culture.

CV

Tailor your CV to the job description. Highlight skills or previous experience you have that is a good match to the position you are applying for. Consult with the Graduate Career & Professional Development center to get individualized advice on your CV and other parts of your application!

Interview day

First impressions are key. Dress for the position. Checking the company website may give you an idea of the overall dress code. Wear something that you feel confident in!

Sell yourself in the interview. Know your strengths and past experiences well enough to explain them to the interviewer. Practice interviewing! Have someone ready with constructive feedback ask you questions so you can practice giving answers on the spot.

At the end of the interview, ask clarifying questions. Know next steps, such as if they will they call you. Should you follow up in a specified amount of time? Will there be a second interview? Etc.

After the interview, you may choose to follow up with the interviewer via email and thank them for the opportunity.

Have Faith

Remember, this is a process. Have faith you will find the position that is right for you even if it takes a couple tries. Interviewing and position searching can be intimidating, but you got this!

- Charisse Montoya