Madeline DeBaro, '24
School Counselor
William Annin Middle School, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
What factors led you to choose ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ for your master's degree?
After completing my bachelor’s degree in counseling and human services at the U¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥, I immediately knew that I wanted to stay and pursue my master’s degree. The counseling department at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ provides the most supportive and caring environment a student could ask for. Throughout both my undergraduate and graduate years, I always felt supported by a team of faculty members. Every accomplishment and milestone was recognized. With small class sizes, I received individualized support and guidance.
How did you end up choosing school counseling instead of another counseling specialty?
I completed both of my undergraduate internships with a school counselor, which sparked my passion for the field of school counseling. However, I also had a strong interest in clinical mental health counseling. The school counseling program, which is 60 credits and allows for clinical practice during practicum, solidified my decision to pursue school counseling. This structure gave me the opportunity to explore both clinical and school counseling. The courses I took were tailored to both fields, preparing me for the National Counseling Exam. I graduated with a school counseling credential and became a Nationally Certified Counselor.What were some of your favorite things about the program?
My favorite part of the program was the sense of community on the fourth floor. As a graduate assistant, I had the chance to grow both professionally and personally. I spent most of my time on the fourth floor, working and connecting with my peers and professors. I miss the fourth floor greatly, which speaks to the wonderful community the Counseling Department has built.
Fondest program memory?
Practicum was a challenging yet rewarding experience. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop my counseling skills. It taught me how to organize my time and manage multiple projects at once—essential skills for a school counselor! Practicum was the time when I truly felt like a professional and gained the confidence that I had chosen the right path for me. Dr. Bruch was my practicum supervisor, and I will never forget her kindness and excitement as she watched my skills grow.
Impressions of coursework, clinical training, and faculty?
The coursework encouraged me to think deeply and apply my learning in real-world settings. Stepping into a school counseling position right after graduation, I felt confident in the skills and knowledge I had gained, which helped me transition from being a student to a professional. I thoroughly enjoyed my practicum experience, as it allowed me to fine-tune my counseling style. Having an on-site Counseling Training Center was a huge benefit of the program. I cannot say enough great things about the faculty. They were the reason I stayed at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ for graduate school, and I will always be grateful for their genuine care and support, both as a student and personally.
How did the program help prepare you for your career?
As a December graduate, I was able to secure a job that started in February. This meant I had to jump into the role mid-school year as a new professional. Although challenging, I never doubted the education and training I received. I stepped into this role with full confidence in the skills I had developed, along with the reassurance that my professors and classmates would remain part of my professional network.