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Meet Briana Campbell ’21MED: ‘I Believe There is Power in Being Vulnerable and Sharing One’s Story’

NC State College of Education graduate Briana Campbell ’21MED

This is part of a series of profiles of students who are graduating from the NC State College of Education in May 2021.

Briana Campbell ’21MED has wanted to be a member of a helping profession for as long as she can remember, but she was ultimately drawn to counseling because of her passion for hearing other peoples’ stories and worldviews. She hopes to use her skills to expand counseling services to historically underserved communities when she graduates with a Master of Education in clinical mental health counseling in May 2021.

Learn more about Briana Campbell

Hometown: Roanoke, Virginia

Area of Study: Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Activities (Research or Extracurricular):In addition to my experience in counseling, I teach social-emotional and life skills to youth in schools and afterschool programs. The main goal of my work is to empower youth to develop healthy behaviors, build self-confidence, practice leadership skills and volunteer and advocate in their communities.

Why did you choose the NC State College of Education?

I chose the NC State College of Education because of its focus on social justice, diversity and inclusion. In my undergraduate career, I facilitated a program on campus that provided diversity and social justice education. I was looking to continue advancing equity and social justice in an environment that put my values into action.

Why did you choose your area of study?

I have wanted to be in a helping profession for as long as I can remember. I was drawn to counseling because I have always loved hearing individuals’ unique stories, worldviews and challenges. I believe there is power in being vulnerable and sharing one’s story. I am grateful that people allow me to hear their stories and I cherish being able to support people through their hardships and celebrate their growth.

What do you hope to accomplish in your field after graduation?

I hope to become involved in initiatives that increase counseling access to individuals that do not typically seek help for their mental health challenges. I hope to do so by delivering culturally sensitive counseling and advocating for all members of my community.

What’s your next step? What do you have planned after graduation?

I will become a licensed professional counselor resident in Virginia. I will be working at a counseling practice that focuses on providing services to individuals from historically marginalized communities.

How has the College of Education prepared you for that next step?

The College of Education has prepared me for my next step by helping me refine my critical thinking skills, which allows me to understand my clients and their worldviews better.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the College of Education?

My favorite memories from my time in the College of Education have involved developing meaningful relationships with the students and clients I have worked with. I believe that supportive and caring relationships are the foundation of learning and change, so I am glad I have had the opportunity to create relationships with others.

Tell us about an experience you had with the College of Education that had the biggest impact on you or your career.

My experience in my counseling internship had the biggest impact on me. I have loved working with my classmates and instructors. It has been a blessing to work alongside compassionate people with a wide range of insights and life experiences.

Why did you choose education?

I chose education because I love it’s focus on empowerment and growth. I am grateful for all of the amazing educators in my life that saw my strengths, supported my development and encouraged me to live as my most authentic self. I hope to do the same for the people I serve.