Greeting Div. 37 Student Members.
As students, we are often told to get involved, be active learners and network. However, what does that really mean? What does that look like, and how do you do it? It can be intimidating to engage with professionals in our field of study, and for some being active in a division may seem lower on the list of priorities. While course work, clinical work and research are top priorities, involvement in a division of interest can greatly enhance your educational experience. Getting involved in a division can take many shapes, from joining the Listserv to holding a seat on the student board. All are equally important and beneficial.
“The most useful thing I have found is the division Listserv, both student and division-wide. I believe the Listserv to be the most effective way to communicate among several busy professionals.” – Larry (student board member)
“The Listserv contains information like grants, trainings, calls for posters and much more. The information is sent directly to you. Like most people in this day in age, we are bombarded by email; however, the opportunity to engage in dialogue around topics we love is worth it.”
Attending conferences as a student member allows for an opportunity to meet future colleagues and start networking. Div. 37’s focus on child and family policy and practice allows for students to learn about advocacy and research from professionals in the field that share a passion for improving the lives of children. The opportunity to network with people from various institutions with a multitude of backgrounds is invaluable.
“Networking is so important, especially for students and early-career psychologists, and the division has been very helpful with this.” – Larry
“I learned the important role that we can all play in advocating for populations we care about. Specifically, I learned how, as a field, even at a graduate student level, we can all become involved in not only advocating for mental health but also begin creating change through public policy.” – Licci (past grad student representative)
I joined the division with the hope of learning about advocacy. What I did not expect was to be in awe of the amazing work that all division members are doing. Members are working in academia and fostering policy change, students are working on ground breaking research and practitioners are caring deeply for their clients. New perspectives and passion are contagious. I often leave my conversations with division members with renewed motivation and excitement.
“I think it's important [to get involved] to learn how to voice our concerns to have some sort of say or impact on critical issues in mental health that ultimately impact public policy, our field and our future careers.”- Licci
“It's so easy to forget that as graduate students we do have the ability to advocate for ourselves and for our disciple. Moreover, being part of the board meetings, I really felt like the board was wanting to hear opinions of graduate students and even integrate into division planning moving forward.” – Licci
So, what does getting involved and networking look like? It looks like finding something that lights your fire and seeking it out. One thing all division members have in common is that they were all students at one time or another. Students offer a unique perspective and bring great value to the division. How do you do it? Ask questions, share your ideas, support your peers and continue learning and growing. You can also contact me.