When beginning her undergraduate studies, Nichole Allen did so with great determination in the field of psychology. Along the way, she was inspired to change paths and pursue a degree in education. In 1997, she earned a B.A. in Education with a focus in social sciences from Oakland University. Nearly two decades later, after raising her three daughters, Allen decided the time was right to return to OU and finish what she started all those years ago.
Her choice to return to her alma mater was simple. Not only did she enjoy the size of OU’s campus, but the fact that the program was CACREP accredited made it a no-brainer.
“I have always been drawn to Oakland University for its big college feel on a small campus,” Allen said. “… but the fact that Oakland University has a strong academic reputation and their program in Counseling is CACREP accredited, made it undeniably the best choice for me.”
It was in 2020 that Allen completed her graduate work and earned her dual degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling.
“The dual degree Master’s program in Counseling … provided the opportunity for me to combine my two passions; Mental Health Care and Education,” Allen explained. “I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed School Counselor, which has proven to be a very meaningful combination over the past few years.”
Allen is now in her third year as a high school counselor at Stoney Creek High School.
“I work with a fabulous team of counselors and caseload of students ninth through twelfth grade,” she explained. “High school counselors these days still assume all responsibilities traditional to the role, but now necessitates a significant amount of social/emotional student support as well. My education degree and dual degrees in counseling have been vital in my role as a high school counselor, as well as in my part time role as a private practice therapist.”
During her time at OU, Allen was heavily involved in the OU chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, an academic honor society for counseling students, educators and professionals.
“CSI has been an amazing resource for offering access to enriching and continuing education through webinars, seminars and guest speakers,” she said.
With multiple degrees under her belt, Allen attributes much of her success to the opportunities and connections available at OU.
“OU provided education, opportunities and connections which best equipped me for a solid launch into my career,” she said. “No amount of classwork prepares you completely for the world of work, but combined with a mandatory internship, I felt assured not only that I was doing the right thing, but that I could do it with confidence.”
While completing her degree, Allen was enrolled in several courses with Professor of Counseling, Dr. Lisa Hawley. Allen credits Hawley for having “taught not only from the textbook, but also [modeling] a way of being,” which she explains is “important in this profession.”
The examples set by our parents can have a profound impact. It’s clear that the example Allen set for her three daughters has done just that. Not only are they following in their mother’s footsteps and earning college degrees, but two of the three have already earned degrees from OU and the third is currently completing her master’s degree at OU in a field none other than counseling.
When Allen returned to OU, she had her mind set on the field of psychology and along the way was able to inspire her daughters to follow in her footsteps. One thing is certain, Allen has certainly finished what she started all those years ago.
For additional information on counseling programs available at OU, visit oakland.edu/counseling.
May 4, 2023
By James Silvestri
