Who or what has molded me like clay...

I think my friends, teachers, and my bizarre and dysfunctional, but awesome family has guided me in the direction of Human Services. Some ways it was/is intentional and others not so much.

I don't feel like an inspiring person, but lots of people tell me that they think I am. That I give off some sort of aura and people who know me walk away at the end of they day looking at their own life differently. I have been told on a few occasions I should be anything from a motivational speaker to a counselor for people with disabilities. Although I don't think I am anything special, these comments made me feel like I could do something in the helping field.

Like I had mentioned above, I have a dysfunctional family(It's not always in a bad way). This has also been a huge reason I wanted to go into counseling. I feel like I have seen and experienced a lot in my shot life that I could relate to someone else.

I would like to be able to make any sort of a difference in someones life. Mostly I hope I can rub my positive attitude off on someone.

I had the time of my life, and NTC I owe it all to you!

As you are approaching the end of your journey in field, please take some time to reflect...share your greatest accomplishment you have experienced in this journey of hands on learning. What did you learn that you never thought you would? How have the lives of others changed yours?

For me being in field and in college in general is my one of my greatest accomplishments. Only 6 or 7 years ago did I ever think I'd be going to college. My family is a huge positive (and usually supportive) part of my life, but they never really talked to me much about my future, and all the possibilities. Usually when I think about myself being in college I don't think of it as that big of a deal because lots of people go to college. I now realize that it is a BIG deal. I have gone through a lot to get to where I am (mostly because of my disability), just like many of my my classmates. I am so glad for whatever forces pushed me into this amazing journey in the Human Services program at NTC. I definitely think it has changed me for the better, and I have mostly nothing but positive things to say about the program, instructors, and school. I believe I have more self insight, empathy, I have come out of my shell a little more, and I overall have a better appreciation for what I have and more. So I'd like to say thank you to everyone who helped shape me during my time at NTC. I hope to stay in touch or see you along the way on this crazy journey.

My First Few Days at the Clubhouse

I am feeling great about my field placement, class, and assessment activites. I am a little worried about getting my 144 hours done, but I know it is possible, and probably a common fear.

This week I learned it is important to make sure it is ok with your landlord before you get a dog.

One good thing that happened to me this week is I didn't freeze on my way to school/internship (my van doesn't have a very good heater) because the weather is so beautiful.