Experts Offer Students Insights and Networking Opportunities

The Alabama A&M University Department of Psychology & Counseling, in collaboration with the Psychology Club, recently hosted a successful “Careers in Psychology” panel. The event brought distinguished psychology professionals from the American Psychological Association (APA) Minority Leadership Development Institute to Carver Complex North for an in-depth discussion on career opportunities and graduate pathways in the field of psychology.

Moderated by Dr. Janice Haskins, Head of the APA's Leadership Development Institute, the panel included Clinical Psychologist Dr. Patrick Quirk; Clinical Psychologist Dr. Rueben Brock; Industrial and Organizational Psychologist Janiece Smith, M.S.; Sports Psychologist Dr. Breigh Jones-Coplin; Forensic Psychologist Dr. LeKisha Mixon and Neuropsychologist Dr. Michael Williams. Each panelist offered students a window into their professional journey, sharing valuable insights into their education, career paths, and daily responsibilities.

Dr. Tonya Davis, Chair of the Department of Psychology & Counseling, expressed the department’s commitment to providing practical exposure for students. “We began hosting the 'Careers in Psychology' panel as a pathway for students to hear from a diverse panel of psychologists about their jobs, career paths, education, and skills required to be successful,” says Davis. “Our careers panel also allows the students to connect what they are learning in school and how it may apply in ‘the real world.’ It is our hope that this activity not only inspires students to pursue a specific subfield but might also lead to a connection with a potential mentor.”

Throughout the event, students received practical advice on topics such as choosing the right graduate program, finding mentorship, and building a professional network. The panel also emphasized the benefits of involvement in professional associations, such as the APA, with the event marking a special moment as Dr. Quirk, an alumnus and former Alabama APA President, awarded free APA memberships to students.

“It was wonderful to have the privilege to receive free student memberships from Dr. Quirk,” says graduating senior and Psychology Club President Xavier Woods. “The meeting was exceptional and shed a light on many potential opportunities.”

“The panel was amazing,” adds senior psychology major Kyra Brown. “I am thankful for events like this that provide us with knowledge and resources to help guide our careers.”