"CEHD has helped me shape my interests into a career goal." 

After exploring different academic disciplines at Temple University, Karen McCausland chose to major in human development and community engagement (HDCE) in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). "This major really encompasses several different areas that would set me up to work with diverse populations," McCausland said. "Its curriculum focusing on psychology, education, human development, community engagement, curriculum design and non-profit work helps broaden my perspective."

McCausland said she and her peers apply the knowledge and skills they learn in their classrooms to experiences in the field during internships, noting that faculty frequently share information on internship opportunities.

During the spring of 2023, McCausland secured her internship at the Women's Center of Montgomery County. "I wanted experience in working in trauma-informed spaces and with vulnerable populations. And I found the Women's Center of Montgomery County's work on eliminating domestic violence and other forms of abuse aligned with my career goal," shared McCausland.

This internship also aligns with McCausland's interest in marriage and family therapy. She recalled becoming interested in this area after heaing from Crystal Austin, CEHD assistant professor and counseling psychologist, about her expertise in marriage and family therapy in the Professional Seminar I course.

Before starting her internship, McCausland went through educational training to learn to talk with survivors and the necessary information she would have to give out. "Working in a space that interacts with trauma can be hard," she said. "However, it is also informative. The Women's Center of Montgomery County exposes me to the people and space I aspire to work with. As a future marriage and family therapist, it is important to know how to approach survivors of trauma." 

McCausland says that the Women's Center of Montgomery County has a great community that uplifts and supports each other. "It's no surprise this is a very trauma-based job, so we emphasize care for ourselves as well," she shared. 

McCausland credited the College of Education and Human Development for setting her up for success. Having been exposed to classes such as Family and the Community, The Impact of Trauma on the Individual and Society, and Helping Professions for Diverse Populations, she has learned the importance of cultural competence and the role of family in child to adult development. "This led me to want to focus on pursuing therapies that focus on families and couples and how important familial relationships are in individual lives," she said. After she graduates, McCausland hopes to take a year to continue this internship and apply to graduate school for marriage and family therapy. 

Outside of courses and her internship, McCausland serves as a part of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee for Alpha Xi Delta, a women's fraternity. The DEI committee hosts events where members meet with other organizations, watch informational documentaries, and learn about upcoming observances. "We act as mentors and educators for the rest of our chapter," McCausland explains.   

McCausland says her journey at Temple University has been unique because she switched majors a few times. She is thankful to have been able to explore her different interests. She advises CEHD students to stay connected with faculty. 

The College of Education and Human Development is here to help students find a path that is right for them. Visit the website for more news like this!