In Focus: Darre Foss
How did you decide upon a career in Rehabilitation/Mental Health Counseling and what led you to be interested in Hofstra’s program?
I knew the general direction I wanted my career to take and knew I wanted to become a counselor. In preparation, I did some internet research and came across Hofstra’s program, which really intrigued me. I gave it some time and meditated on my decision for a while. I eventually came back and looked at the program again. I decided that both the career choice and program fit my life and career goals.
What would you want to let someone who is considering enrolling in the program know?
I would want to let someone considering the program know that it is a great program. I am so happy with the decision I made to attend. This program is the epitome of what Rehabilitation Counseling is all about.
What did you like most about the program at Hofstra and what would you consider to be its greatest asset?
What I liked most about the program was definitively the staff and faculty. They are always willing to work with you and they consistently go above and beyond what is required. The staff and faculty are very flexible and accommodating and are always there for the students. They worked with each student individually to ensure they had what was needed for them to complete the program and its requirements in the way best suited to the individual student. I believe the staff and faculty are the program’s greatest asset. If a student in the program was ever struggling, nervous or in need of guidance, the staff were there for them.
What would you consider to be the highlight of your time in the program?
The highlight of my time in the program was taking the Comprehensive Examination. The exam pulled everything from all of the courses and experiences I had during my time there together. It was amazing to me to see how much I learned and grew from attending the program. I had the realization while taking the examination that this is what I would be doing during my career as a Rehabilitation Counselor.
Tell us about your practicum and internship experiences.
My practicum was a good experience for me. I really enjoyed my internship field experience as well. I learned a lot, both vocationally and clinically, during my time at my internship site.
How has the training and degree you received from Hofstra benefitted you?
The training and education I received from the program allowed me to see what changes and improvements were necessary at my place of employment. Given the knowledge I now possess, I have been able to provide information regarding these changes and improvements and play an instrumental role in the development of new programming. My participation in the program has also made me eligible for a multitude of positions in the field. Without the CRC credential, I would not have been eligible for many of these positions.
How did you finance your degree?
My degree was financed through a combination of student loans and grants provided by the University.
What would your advice to an individual currently researching graduate programs be?
I would highly recommend this program to them and tell them that in my opinion, this program is the way to go.
