What was your course of study at Flagler and how did it equip you to enter your current professional industry?
When I entered Flagler, I already knew what I wanted my career to be, which was an art therapist. Flagler offered a lot of course options, even an art therapy class. It challenged me and prepared me for graduate school.
What was your first job after graduating from Flagler and how did you secure it?
After graduating from Flagler, I went directly to graduate school. I felt academically prepared for the courses and workload that graduate school demanded because of my time at Flagler. I felt knowledgeable and ready to learn more about my career.
What role did this first job play in the course of your professional career?
Graduate school was a necessary step in my career as a licensed professional counselor. I attended Adler University in Chicago and graduated with a dual master’s degree in counseling and art therapy.
Before graduating from Flagler, where could you see yourself living as a young professional and why?
I always wanted to live in a bigger city. After Flagler, I moved to Chicago for graduate school and really enjoyed being able to explore the city and build community. I am a queer, trans, latinx person and I felt that a bigger city could offer me the safety and community that smaller cities don’t. I’m grateful for the opportunities that Atlanta offers me, both professionally and socially.
What were some of the factors that led you to move to Atlanta, professionally or otherwise?
I moved to Atlanta because I really missed being in the south, and wanted to be closer to family, while still having the big city vibes. There is also a huge network of mental health professionals, and large queer and trans community. There is something for everyone in Atlanta
How common/ represented is your industry of work in Atlanta?
I would say that mental health professionals have a rather larger network in Georgia. It doesn’t feel lonely, and I know if I need consultation or continuing education, I could find it in Atlanta.
How would you describe Atlanta as a place to work?
Atlanta has a large network of professionals. I own my private practice, and there is a network of solo private practice owners/small business owners that are very active. I believe there is a community or network in Atlanta for all industries.
How would you describe Atlanta as a place to live?
I love living in Atlanta! It is a city filled with creatives and is always moving. The city especially comes alive in the summer.
What are three things you love about living in Atlanta that you think would be hard to find somewhere else?
Outside of being a full-time small business owner and therapist, I roller-skate indoors and outdoors. My favorite thing about Atlanta is the skate community and being able to skate any night of the week at a rink, or skate outdoors most of the year. I’ve had major opportunities because of the skate community and have learned so much. You can find my skate journey on Instagram. The second thing I love about Atlanta is how expansive the queer and trans community is. I feel so lucky to have such a loving and supportive community of friends. It has really changed my life to be in an abundance of acceptance and love with my queer and trans chosen family. Lastly, I really love that there is something for everyone to do in Atlanta. There are festivals, dancing, art, roller-skating, and so much more. You can find whatever you’re looking for here.