Amber’s journey to becoming a psychology instructor at Lake Land College is filled with dedication, curiosity, and a deep passion for helping students. With a master’s degree in clinical counseling and years of experience as a children’s counselor, Amber has always felt a strong connection to education. “Every time I graduated, I missed education,” she shared, which led her to seek opportunities in higher education.
In 2014, she joined Lake Land’s TRIO Student Support Services program as an advisor and later became the program’s director. After seven years, she transitioned to Counseling Services as the Advisor for Accommodations and Mental Health Initiatives. Amber is grateful for these experiences, saying, “I got to work with students who are some of my favorites on campus. Their strength and resilience are unmatched.”
Amber’s love for psychology and her desire to have a long-term impact on students inspired her to begin teaching. To pursue this goal, she earned a second master’s degree in psychology. She now teaches psychology with the hope that her students will use what they learn to make a positive impact on the community.
“I love psychology because it helps us understand ourselves and others,” Amber explained. “It’s a field that encourages empathy and understanding.” In her classes, she emphasizes the importance of students’ stories. Drawing from her counseling experience, Amber works to create a space where students feel heard and valued. She believes that making connections with students improves their engagement and helps them succeed.
One of Amber’s favorite aspects of teaching is the interaction with students. Through discussions and personal reflections, she learns as much from them as they learn from her. “Every week, my students leave me contemplating something new about myself or the world,” she said.
Amber finds that certain topics in psychology, like consciousness, spark curiosity among students. “It’s fascinating to think about how no two people experience the world in the same way,” she shared. Students are also deeply interested in how we learn and the connection between mental and physical health.
Amber believes that the skills she gained in counseling have greatly influenced her teaching style. Active listening, effective communication, and a focus on student support are as crucial in the classroom as they are in counseling.
When asked about the challenges students face, Amber highlighted the difficulties of balancing life’s stressors with school. She encourages active listening and empathy to help students navigate these challenges, keeping in mind that everyone’s experience is unique.
Amber’s passion for psychology began when she volunteered at a sexual assault agency. “That experience opened my eyes to a field that felt truly fulfilling,” she said. Over time, her dedication to helping others and her commitment to learning have only grown stronger.
For students interested in psychology or counseling, Amber advises building relationships with instructors, counselors, and mentors. “Volunteer, complete internships, and talk to people in the field,” she recommended. “Hands-on experience is invaluable, and those connections can make all the difference.”
Thank you, Amber, for your dedication to education and your positive impact on the Lake Land College community!
