Alumni Profile: Shannon Patterson ’10
Degree(s): BA Psychology and Sociology, Cert Gender & Women’s Studies, UW–Madison; PhD Counseling Psychology, Lehigh University
Current Occupation: Clinical Instructor at Equip Health; Owner of Shannon Patterson PhD LLC
What are some of the benefits of your psychology degree?
High level of preparedness for graduate degree work; allows for flexibility and autonomy
How did you find your way to your current profession?
I enjoyed relational work, social justice advocacy and research, so pursuing a PhD in Counseling Psychology was a great fit for me. After working in hospital systems for 10+ years, I now have a combination of clinical, writing and teaching responsibilities that provide task diversity and high levels of job satisfaction.
What advice would you give to students graduating with a psychology degree?
Take time to identify your passions and work in industries that interest you before pursuing an advanced degree. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint; it’s ok to go at your own speed and to take care of yourself along the way.
If interested, please list an identity or group membership of which you are particularly proud:
I was part of Psi Chi.
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