Graduate Student Alumni Spotlight

Counseling Psychology MA

Student Name: Britney Hilbun, MA

Program: Master's in Counseling Psychology (now the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program)

Graduated: 2011

Employer: East Texas Crisis Center

Position: Sexual Assault Program Coordinator and Counselor

What attracted you to this field?

I've always been interested in the field of psychology, specifically human behavior and the brain. Also, as cliché as it sounds, I wanted to have the opportunity to help people and work with them both in individual and group settings to help them improve their quality of life.

Why did you choose to attend UT Tyler?

I was born and raised in Tyler and really didn't want to leave my friends and family to pursue my education if I didn't have to. UT Tyler was convenient, close to home, and offered a variety of graduate-level programs in the counseling field.

What do you like most about UT Tyler?

The accessibility of the professors. It was always easy to stop by their office, talk with them after class, or email them. It was obvious they were passionate about their chosen field and wanted to help their students learn and develop into competent, professional counselors. There was also this "close-knit" feeling among the students I graduated with, which has continued even beyond graduation.

What are your career aspirations?

I hope to eventually work in a private or group practice setting. I'd also like to get more specialized training in working with trauma in a broader scope, not just sexual trauma.

What's your work experience?

Before I graduated and got a job at the East Texas Crisis Center, I completed my practicum at the Children's Advocacy Center of Smith County. During graduate school I was also a Graduate Assistant and helped one professor with various research projects.

Do you have any advice to pass along to other students interested in this program?

Be involved, not just at school but also in the community. Involvement leads to networking and new experiences and a higher level of learning. Volunteering is a great way to "get your feet wet" in your chosen field.

Find out more about Psychology and Counseling