“…being a vocational rehabilitation counselor is an opportunity for me to be a part of an individual's development toward their work goals.”

Hometown

Waipahu, O‘ahu

Department

Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science

Related Degrees

• MS, KRS: Rehab

How far along in the program are you?
I am in my second year.

What drew you to the rehabilitation counseling program?
Having completed my undergraduate degree at UHM, I liked the local atmosphere and I also knew others who had completed the program. The online format definitely helped.

What is the significance of the Rehabilitation Services Administration Services (RSA) scholarship to you?
The RSA scholarship enables me to pursue further education without burdening me financially.

How did attending a professional conference impact your learning?
Attending the National Council on Rehabilitation Education (NCRE) Conference in Arlington, Virginia has helped me professionally. I was able to meet other students and professionals, see what others are researching, and apply what I learned as a counselor.

What does it mean for you to be a vocational rehabilitation counselor?
Being a vocational rehabilitation counselor is a job that I’ve found challenging and rewarding at the same time. To me, being a vocational rehabilitation counselor is an opportunity for me to be a part of an individual’s development toward their work goals.

Which skills or experiences obtained through this program are the most important to you?
I think that the hands-on experience through practicum and internship are the most important.

How have the rehabilitation counseling program and faculty helped you along the way?
They have helped me to develop critical thinking skills and have provided guidance.

What advice would you give current or prospective students about this program?
I’m not sure, but for what it’s worth: Go with the flow, hang on for the ride, and it’ll probably be over sooner than you think!