Kennesaw State peer counselor gets a jump start on her career goals

Majoring in psychology with a double minor in data analytics and child advocacy studies, Courtney Everett is able to get a head start on her career by working as a peer counselor for Counseling and Psychology Services.  

Peer Counseling in the Well-Nest

On the second floor of the student center, Everett works in the Well-Nest. Peer counselors listen attentively, promote understanding, and establish environments for social interactions in the campus community. They receive training and support from Counseling and Psychological Services, and while they do not replace therapy, they provide support, information, and direction on common student concerns.  One-on-one or virtual appointments are available Monday-Thursday.  

"You kind of get an idea of what students are like, and then also what the university expects and how to implement and be kind of the bridge between the students and the faculty or the students and the department," said Everett.  

The peer counselors also host outreach events such as Dining in the Nest and Coloring Collage for students to come to meet each other and for the peer counselors to de-stress and connect. 

Career Readiness

As a peer counselor, Everett expressed how she's grasped experience by working with students one-on-one.

"I've always been interested in staying in the educational environment when it comes to psychology, whether it's as an educational psychologist or school psychologist, but having the experience to be able to work with people in a one-to-one kind of clinically based setting while being under a university has been very eye-opening," said Everett.  

Kennesaw State provides many opportunities and resources for students to get a jump start in their future careers. Everett encourages other students to remain open-minded and ready to learn when searching for a job.

"There are many different positions that people overlook here on campus, and I'm sure there's a way that you can find something that's more tailored for your personality or your skills and something that you can actually enjoy," she explains. "But remember that every opportunity is a way to learn, and there's always a chance out there for you to do great."