Courtesy photoAmy Nguyen is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring/summer 2020 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.
Amy Nguyen wanted a new challenge as a teacher. Wichita State University’s school psychology program offers her the chance to add to use her teaching skills and add new ones.
“I believe school psychology is the perfect combination for the experience I have,” she said.
Amy is from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and moved to the United States six years ago. She worked as an aviation mechanic for two years to help pay for school.
She added her master’s degree in educational psychology and her specialist degree at Wichita State to her undergraduate degree in English linguistics and American literature and a master’s degree in English
“What excites me most about school psychology is that I am able to assist students at all levels and help process their problems and promote positive behaviors,” she said.
What is your degree in?
Specialists Degree in school psychology
What led you to WSU?
I chose WSU’s school psychology program because I had more than 15 years of experience in teaching and loved everything about psychology.
When I first moved to the USA, I wanted to do something different from teaching, but still have a chance to take advantage of teaching experience I had.
I am so glad I chose WSU. My professors are super-knowledgeable with solid methodology.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
I am so excited and feel grateful to WSU and all the professors who helped me gain the success.
What are your career plans?
I had a job offer in Hutchinson to work as school psychology intern. I am going to work for them full-time. I am so excited about it.
How has the COVID-19 crisis altered those plans, if at all?
I currently work on-line and from home. It is different, but I guess we all have to work it out.
What advice do you have for students on how to cope with the uncertainty of these times?
Just believe in the positive. Things will be fine and great again.
What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at WSU?
I usually got my assignments done earlier than later, and it helps a lot with meeting deadlines. Emailing professors and asking questions are ways to advocate for yourself. I realize that having good relationships with classmates can help with a lot of other things, like keeping track with the class, motivation and feeling a sense of belonging.
What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
English pronunciation was my biggest challenge. I reached out for help from different resources. My boyfriend, my neighbor, my classmate and my co-workers are those who help me improve my pronunciation.
