What would I do differently if I were in grad school again?

That question’s been on my heart for a while—especially with everything changing in our field. Tuition is rising. The job market looks different. AI tools are shifting how we work. And private practice? It’s more crowded than ever.

But in the middle of all that, I believe this is still a beautiful and meaningful field to grow in—if we do it with intention.

Today, I want to slow things down and share 5 shifts I’d make if I were starting over as a psychology grad student.

Whether you're a student, an early-career therapist, or supervising someone on their path—this is for you.

Don’t Just Learn. Build Something.

Grad school gives you structure: classes, assignments, supervision, and a cohort.

But if all you do is follow the structure, you may miss your most important teacher: you.

One of the best things you can do is build something of your own while you're learning.

• Start a simple podcast.
• Share weekly reflections on LinkedIn.
• Try a low-pressure YouTube channel.
• Write a short newsletter about your practicum experience (with client details removed, of course).

Not to go viral—but to find your voice and start planting seeds. Because one day, that voice could open doors your degree alone won’t.

Say Yes to What Scares You (Just a Little)

This one's especially hard for my fellow introverts.

But so many good things came into my life because I said yes to small, scary things:

• Volunteering at a training.
• Asking a shaky question in supervision.
• Attending a workshop in a totally new area.
  

I didn’t need to lead the room—I just needed to show up. Quiet courage builds trust in yourself. And often, those moments are where the most meaningful relationships begin.

Learn the Language of Business

We get trained in modalities—CBT, ACT, EMDR—but not in how to actually run our careers.

No one teaches us:

• How to read a profit-and-loss sheet
• What an LLC is
• The difference between W-2 and 1099
• Why a Roth IRA matters in your 20s
• Or how to build income that doesn’t rely 100% on showing up

Even if you never open a private practice, you are a business of one. Knowing how money flows helps you serve others better—and sleep better at night.

If I were starting over, I’d take a personal finance class during grad school and look for free or low-cost workshops on business basics.

Build Real Relationships—Not Just a Resume

Yes, you need hours and recommendations and licensure. But don’t forget to build friendships, too.

My most meaningful career growth came from:

• A supervisor who took clients on the golf course (!)
• A classmate who started a mental health startup
• A CEU workshop where I met someone who later opened a big door for me
  

Here are two ways to start:

• Use LinkedIn: Find therapists in your city. Leave thoughtful comments. Ask for a 30-minute chat. Not to “network”—but to learn.
• Attend local meetups: Check Meetup.com or Facebook for therapist groups in your city. Ask if grad students are welcome. Many times, people are glad you asked.

Don’t Burn Bridges (Ever)

If you feel slighted by a site or supervisor, pause before going scorched earth.

This field is small. You never know when that person might be on a hiring committee, lead a group practice, or refer you to your dream job.

Even if you leave, leave well. Be kind. Be professional. Your reputation is built in rooms you're not in.

Bonus: Invest in Your Nervous System

This isn’t fluffy advice. This is survival.

The work we do is intense. Clients. Systems. Notes. Trauma. Burnout.

The therapists who last aren't just the smartest. They’re the most regulated.

So if you're in grad school now, here’s your permission slip:

• Take one hour a week to do something that feeds your soul.
• Take a yoga class.
• Learn breathwork.
• Go on walks.
• Take pictures of flowers (like I did in grad school).
  

Because you're not just building a career. You're building the vessel to carry that career.

Final Thoughts

Grad school is a huge investment of time, money, and heart. And while I wouldn't change the path I took, I do wish I’d walked it with more intention.

If you’re in the early stages of your career, please hear this:

You don’t have to do it perfectly.
You don’t have to do it fast.
You just have to keep going.

We need you in this field. And we’re so glad you’re here.

Want more reflections like this?

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