Jaylynn Carey Finds Her Path in Psychology and Counseling at Immaculata University

For Jaylynn Carey, finding the right academic path took time, persistence and self-discovery.

Carey, a graduate student in Immaculata University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, began her higher education journey in 2020 at Delaware County Community College. As a first-generation college student, she said she initially felt uncertain about what to pursue. She first majored in early childhood education before switching to a general science degree.

In August 2022, she transferred to Immaculata University and enrolled in the nutrition and dietetics program while adding a minor in psychology. At the time of her transfer to Immaculata, Carey was working between 20 and 30 hours per week while taking classes, which made staying motivated difficult.

“There were multiple thoughts of dropping out. But I just knew deep down that I wanted to get a bachelor’s degree,” Carey said.

It was through her coursework that she finally realized that psychology was her passion. She switched her academic focus again and graduated in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and a minor in nutrition.

In the Immaculata psychology program, Carey gained hands-on experience through two internships, including one at a counseling center that confirmed her interest in pursuing a career in counseling.

In addition to her internships, Carey became involved in a research project focused on the psychology behind tattoos with psychology faculty member Maria Cuddy-Casey, Ph.D., and fellow students after being encouraged by Erin Kirschmann, Ph.D., Immaculata University’s undergraduate psychology program director. The group’s work was recently accepted for presentation at the American Psychological Association conference in August 2026.

“Presenting at such a big conference has been a goal of mine,” Carey said. “It’s nice to know that all our hard work is paying off and is appreciated.”

Her time at Immaculata fostered personal growth, helping Carey develop confidence, time management skills and an understanding that asking for help is a strength. She credits the psychology department and the supportive environment created by her professors with preparing her for graduate study at Immaculata.

Professionalism and career preparation were also emphasized throughout her time at Immaculata University, including several visits from the University’s Office of Career and Professional Development to her classes to discuss professional skill and résumé development.

Now in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program at Immaculata University, Carey says she continues to find support from both faculty and fellow students, while also appreciating the structure of the program’s coursework.

“All of the professors in the program are personable and understanding,” Carey said. “I really enjoy the help and guidance I receive; the amount of resources I get from my professors is impressive. I feel that by the time I graduate, I’ll be well prepared for the counseling world. I also enjoy my assignments. They aren’t just papers or presentations; many have themes and allow for creativity, which makes learning more fun.”

Like many graduate students, Carey has faced challenges balancing academics with life responsibilities. Adjusting to graduate-level coursework and scheduling while wanting to work full time has required careful decision-making.

To navigate those pressures and risk of burnout (a common occurrence in the mental health field) Carey said she has learned the importance of prioritizing self-care and making decisions that aided her well-being, including seeking flexible work opportunities.

Looking ahead, Carey plans to become a licensed professional counselor. She also hopes to remain connected to higher education, potentially working as an adjunct professor and eventually pursuing a doctorate degree.

“I enjoy higher education and have a passion for helping others to navigate their way through school, just like how my professors at Immaculata have helped me,” she said.

For students considering a future in psychology or counseling, Carey offers simple advice: pursue what inspires you.

“Don’t be afraid to follow something you’re passionate about,” she said. “Life is tough, and if you’re doing what you enjoy, it makes everything so much better.”