Student Profile: Nathalie Lynn

Nathalie Lynn returned to the United States to pursue her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Rutgers Graduate School of Education (GSE) after earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Puerto Rico in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Originally from New York City, Nathalie traveled to Puerto Rico to experience a new environment and learn within a different culture. She majored in English as a Second Language and taught at high schools in Puerto Rico, allowing her to combine her interest in teaching and working with youth.

Nathalie realized she was passionate about working with young adults through her volunteer experiences within Christian organizations as an undergraduate student. She worked with counseling psychologists, pastors, and other leaders to engage young adults, focusing on their well-being and growth, while gaining leadership skills of her own and opening her eyes to a potential career path.

“I wanted to engage with students on an emotional and social level,” notes Nathalie. “I realized that a lot of things going on outside of the classroom really affect what goes on inside of the classroom.”

Nathalie fell in love with the Counseling Psychology program at GSE because it focuses on educational excellence and students’ individual growth. Nathalie feels she is provided with the practical tools and techniques necessary for effective counseling, while also being encouraged to discover herself in the process.

“I’ve learned that there is no set way to be a counseling psychologist,” said Nathalie. “My professors at the GSE helped me outgrow the pressure of fitting a mold and support me to be myself.”

Nathalie recently started working as an Editorial Assistant for the Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development (JMCD). She supports the Editor and GSE Associate Professor, Dr. Caroline Clauss-Ehlers, by reviewing manuscripts, assigning reviewers, and coordinating with the editorial team.

During her free time, Nathalie volunteers at the Spirit of Brotherhood Church in Brooklyn, New York. She is responsible for organizing and promoting a variety of activities that allow young adults to express themselves in a safe place including small group sessions, workshops, and fellowship gatherings.

Nathalie’s volunteer experiences have opened her eyes to a career path, which is reassured through her education at GSE. She plans to continue her studies upon graduation from the GSE to obtain her doctorate in counseling psychology. Nathalie encourages anyone who is truly passionate about counseling to pursue it persistently and consistently.

 

To learn more about the Ed.M. program in Counseling Psychology at GSE, click here.