Graduating Grad School!

Today, I finally finished grad school! After deciding that I wanted to pursue school psychology, I began my master’s program at Fort Hays State University in 2018 and received my M.S. in Psychology the following year. I immediately transitioned into FHSU’s education specialist program and have just graduated with my Ed.S. in School Psychology (with a 4.0 GPA)!!

So what’s next?

I’ve met all the educational benchmarks for becoming a school psychologist—this included passing the School Psychology Praxis exam, completing a 600-hour practicum in the school setting, and completing my Ed.S. degree. Next is the journey to licensure! I have to complete a 1,200-hour internship experience within the role of a school psychologist (this is the equivalent of working full-time for one school year). After this internship, I will apply for licensure through the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and then (hopefully) BOOM! I’ll be a school psychologist! Luckily the internship experience is typically paid, so it will be as if I am working a regular job. We will be stationed in Wyoming for two more years, so by the time we move to our next base, I’ll be all set to look for school psych positions. Especially with the unpredictable nature of being in a military family, I am grateful that no matter where we happen to go, there is almost always a school psychologist position open somewhere nearby.

Interested in School Psychology?

It’s a wonderful field that seamlessly blends the interpersonal aspect of working with staff, students, and families (consultation, counseling, etc.) and the analytical side of psychology (cognitive/academic assessment administration, result interpretation, statistical analysis, etc.). Research schools with in-person programs accredited through NASP here. Or, consider completing an online program. Despite being online, I was pleasantly surprised by the rigorous nature of the FHSU school psychology program, which requires the completion of many experiences within the school setting (observing local school psychologists, interviewing school personnel, completing a year-long 600-hour practicum, etc.). I am leaving this program feeling incredibly prepared to enter into my internship and beyond. You’ll have to note, however, that this program is not yet accredited by NASP (they have not accredited any online programs yet—I am hoping this will change with the new appreciation for online schooling during the COVID-era). All this means is that in addition to the internship, you’ll have to submit to NASP a portfolio demonstrating your educational and professional competencies within the 10 NASP domains. Luckily, the FHSU Ed.S. program’s culminating project is a portfolio that closely adheres to NASP standards, as well as a portfolio defense presentation. This was fantastic practice so that I know exactly what to expect when compiling my portfolio to receive the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential.

Do you have any questions about school psychology? Comment below or email me using the “Contact” tab at the top of the page.