Meet Rachael Dzedzy-McLaughlin, MS, graduate of USP's Health Psychology program
Name: Rachael Dzedzy-McLaughlin
Degree Program: MS in Health Psychology
Year Graduated: 2004
Why I chose USP
What attracted me to USP was the one-year full-time program in Health Psychology. I had looked at schools all around Philadelphia and no one else offered a similar program. I knew it would not be easy to take on graduate school, but the opportunity to take it head on, full-time, and have my degree within one year was a challenge and opportunity that I had to take. I am grateful I did.
How this degree program prepared me for my career
The Health Psychology program was both research-based and clinical. The balance between the two aspects of the program truly prepared me to take either avenue I wanted to pursue.
My career path since graduation
I was employed one month after I graduated from USP as a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Medical Institute in Havertown, PA. I conduct pharmaceutical research for new drugs being tested by the FDA in therapeutic areas such as Alzheimer's Disease, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, General Anxiety, Insomnia and Pathological Gambling.
A memorable USP experience
Dr. Moelter's Neuropsychology courses at my time during USP were a true challenge to me both academically and personally. I had to work and study so diligently and invest a lot of effort and time into those three courses. But the hard work and personal challenges I endured made that "A" I received taste so much better.
My advice for prospective students
USP has a lot to offer, so do your research and compare it to other schools in the area. You'll see. Remember, there is always financial aid and many programs and student assistantships offered as well
Meet Jessica Matthews-Dougherty, MS, graduate of USP's Health Psychology program
Name: Jessica Matthews-Dougherty
Degree Program: BS and MS in Health Psychology
Year Graduated: BS in 2005, MS in 2006
Why I chose USP
I really enjoyed the curriculum and was already so engrained in the community, having earned my bachelor's degree at USP. USP made me feel comfortable and I felt the program was excellent.
How this degree program prepared me for my career
My job as an outpatient therapist in a community mental health setting allows me to utilize all of my skills learned at USP. Because many of the patients I see also have health problems, my unique understanding of Health Psychology allows me to effectively treat client's mental health issues, as well as understand the role their illness plays in their well-being.
My career path since graduation
Graduating in May of '06, I helped with a two week research study of bipolar disorder at the University of Pennsylvania. In August 2006, I was hired at John F. Kennedy Community Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center. Here, I am an outpatient therapist providing counseling and psycho-education to mostly low income and uninsured residents of Center City and North Philadelphia. I carry a case load of 60 patients, most of whom I see weekly. I have my own office and make my own schedule. I really enjoy my job!
A memorable USP experience
No other course at USP prepared me more for my job than my Counseling and Consultation skills class, taught by Dr. Turner. Here I learned the invaluable skills I would need to be an effective therapist. Also, my neuropsychological classes helped me to understand the unique challenges that my brain damaged and epileptic patients face, and equipped me with the skills to counsel them.
My advice for prospective students
My best advice would be to utilize all of the resources at USP, and to really find a way to get involved not only in your program, but also in the USP community. There's always something going on if you know how to find it, and to miss out on the opportunity to get a well-rounded college experience would be a shame. Also, of course, leave plenty of time for studying! The curriculum is challenging.
