Ryanne Martucci, '20 MA, School of Education, Master of Arts in School Counseling
What have you done that you are proud of?
I am most proud of the fact that I took a leap to try out a new position within the counseling space. I had always believed that once I completed the program, I would either work at a school as a counselor or pursue my LPCC and work in private practice. I never thought I would be able to combine my love for counseling and working with students in this capacity. Although it was nerve-racking at first, I am proud I made the change. Although I love working with high school students and hope to return to a similar role in the future, this new role has allowed me to grow professionally and personally while working with a unique group of students.
How has your work made an impact on your community, school, agency, classroom, clients or students?
Prior to my current role, I worked as a College and Career Counselor at a local high school. I quickly realized the inequity in access to college/career education. Many of our students have false information about what life beyond high school looks like. I make sure to provide opportunities and options for all students, those that may not be college bound, those that want to enter the workforce, those who are interested in the military. Maybe they were interested in attending college, but their path included community college. Being able to provide opportunities and options to our students is so important. There is no "one size fits all" approach to counseling. In my current role, I have the opportunity to work with individuals from all over the world, providing a path to education that will provide them with additional career and professional development experiences that can not only change the trajectory of their lives, but those they intend to serve in the future.
What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of your work?
Most of the evidence of my work comes from the individuals themselves. Whether it is a student I have worked with that shares stories of their freshman college experience, or a former student of mine working at a local restaurant, proud of their accomplishments. I see my students all around town. Although I may not always remember their names due to increasingly large class sizes, they always remember mine and the special bond we shared throughout the time we worked together. The most important thing to always remember, is we are all unique individuals, with different skills, values, and accomplishments. Cherish and appreciate the uniqueness in the individuals you work with.