I learned about the LeADERS program during my senior year at Old Dominion University ('20-'21). I received an email during my next-to-last semester informing me that I had completed the requirements to receive the Bronze medal in the program. I immediately schedule an appointment with an advisor to discuss the program details and to obtain more information. At that time, however, I needed to focus my efforts on successfully completing a full-time academic schedule alongside a part-time internship. Being at home full-time with a toddler and a 2nd grader, who was attending school virtually at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, introduced some unique challenges. I wanted to ensure that I found a healthy balance between my academic, professional, and motherly roles. In the meantime, I kept the LeADERS email pinned to the top of my inbox.

Because I was approaching the end of my undergraduate journey, I knew that I needed to incorporate this achievement into my ePortfolio before graduation. Luckily, I already had my research collection established. After completing orientation, checking my completed course(s) eligibility, and attending the Leadership Lecture Series (LLS), I became eligible to receive the Silver medal. During my last semester, in the Spring of 2021, I worked diligently to add features that showcased my skills and development in the remaining LeADERS areas (Leadership, Academic Internship, and Diversity). Through a combination of clinical psychology work, human services courses, and the LLS, I was able to satisfy the areas for (L)eadership, (e)Portfolio, (A)cademic Internship, (D)iversity, and (R)esearch. I can not thank my advisors and family enough for supporting me throughout my journey.

I am honored to be a LeADERS candidate and to have a platform that allows me to showcase my hard work and commitment to the field of mental health. Looking back, my overall experiences in each area seamlessly connected. The leadership skills that I developed during the LLS increased my confidence in assisting and positively influencing the women and children during my internship with Help & Emergency Response, Inc. The internship allowed me to utilize the tools I had acquired from my counseling and diversity studies. I had an excellent opportunity to explore my therapeutic interests while learning crisis coordination and case management basics. My research efforts supplied me with the tools that I needed to obtain and process information and create and edit written reports. In turn, the 'Diversity Issues in Human Services' course provided me with the pivotal knowledge and skills necessary to work with individuals with various backgrounds, identities, and cultures. 

The LeADERS experience has paved my future as a mental health professional. My desire to further explore the field goes far beyond simply accomplishing academic endeavors. My continual education and training enhance a fundamental understanding of effective leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills. Through LeADERS, I have developed the tools necessary for engaging in meaningful and successful client relationships.