Department of Education and Psychology holds graduate forum
Alcorn’s Department of Education and Psychology hosted a graduate forum in the Extension and Research Complex, Ray Johnson Assembly Center for students majoring in education and psychology. The event was coordinated by Dr. LaShawn Thompson, assistant professor of psychology.
“The graduate forum was designed to introduce education and psychology students to the opportunities of graduate studies in the Education and Psychology Department at the University of Southern Mississippi,” she explained. “Several professors from Southern Miss presented their graduate programs to our students and answered questions about the graduate school application process, financial aid, degree requirements, obtainable licenses, attrition rates and job opportunities after degree confirmation. They also held a recruiting session for graduating seniors.”
The forum proved to be mutually beneficial for Alcorn students and the invited professors as it allowed a group networking opportunity as well as the chance to speak one-on-one. The professors toured the campus and attempted to build a relationship between the departments of Education and Psychology of both universities.
Dr. Kamden Strunk, assistant professor of Educational Studies and Research Director of the Research Initiative on Social Justice in Education, and Dr. Georgianna Martin, assistant professor of Student Affairs Administration/Higher Education spoke about the current graduate programs such as the Higher Education M.Ed. Program with an emphasis in student affairs; the M.S. in Education with an emphasis in Social Justice; and the Doctorate of Philosophy in Education with an emphasis in research, evaluation, statistics, and assessment.
Dr. Pam Clark, assistant professor in the Department of Child and Family Studies, presented Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy program designed to prepare ethically competent mental health professionals who upon completion of this terminal program will be able to obtain a professional license in counseling allowing them to provide professional clinical and mental health services.
Dr. Malinda Butler, chairperson of Alcorn’s Department of Education and Psychology, stated, “We thank Dr. Thompson for initiating and coordinating this successful and informative event. We look forward to collaborating with Southern Miss and hope to strengthen and expand the relationship.”
Aakanksha Punj, a junior majoring in psychology at Alcorn, shared, “Attending the forum was important because it provided me with the information that it woul be difficult to find otherwise. The professors gave short and compendious details about the program. They have a large program and provide financial assistance to their students. I am considering applying to this university also because the program is expanding every year.”
During the graduate forum, students had the opportunity to win door prizes and enjoy refreshments.
