Student Ambassador: Nicolas Rocha

As a first-generation college student, it can be challenging to navigate higher education and to counteract the feelings of inadequacy or incompetence. I have felt both supported and validated by the WJC faculty members, the Academic Resource Center, and my fellow classmates. Challenging imposter syndrome is much easier when you are surrounded by others who also share a similar experience. Being an active leader within the First Generational College student group has led to meaningful discussions, shared struggles, and helpful tips. It can be helpful to remind yourself that you are capable, you are welcomed, and your voice matters.

Here are some “words of advice” for new students: 

1. Advisors are there for you. You will be assigned an advisor when you start your coursework at WJC. Their office hours are not just for academic-related topics: they actively encourage students to get to know them at both a professional and personal level. Utilize advising sessions to discuss work-life balance, research interests, and to ask about opportunities to join labs and current projects.
2. Be open to new experiences. It can feel daunting to decide on a dissertation topic, what practicum site you would like to work with next year, and which treatment modality aligns with your personal goals and your worldview. Give yourself an opportunity to explore various treatment settings, treatment modalities (e.g., CBT, ACT, brief psychodynamic), and electives. You might be surprised by the experience.
3. Challenge perfectionism. Doctoral programs require a significant investment of time, money, and cognitive resources. You are in graduate school to learn, grow, and be okay with making mistakes. We do not know everything, and we cannot expect ourselves to meet unrealistic goals or standards. If you are considering spending an additional four hours on an assignment to ensure that you get a 100% grade, take a step-back and ask, what is the true cost of doing this?
4. Daily walks. Schedule “sacred” time for yourself. For some people, this might entail taking daily walks to clear the mind or scheduling coffee dates with yourself. Allow yourself to slow down and enjoy the present moment. Graduate school is chaotic, messy, and fast. How many people have the privilege to spend years doing something that they are compassionate about? Grounding yourself throughout the process ultimately makes you more productive and negates clinician burnout.