Monica Zabinski, a fourth-year student in the Psy.D. program at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP), is set to embark on her predoctoral internship in Arizona this Fall. In a recent interview, Monica shared her meaningful accomplishments and reflections on her transformative experience at ISPP.

Monica is particularly proud of her involvement in the Antiracism and Intersectionality Work Group (AIWG) at ISPP. This group provided her with a community and space for personal growth, accountability, and challenging internalized beliefs. Her engagement in AIWG opened doors to opportunities, including applying for the Social Responsibility Section Student Mentee position through the Illinois Psychological Association. Monica emphasized the importance of thinking outside the box in contributing to the field beyond traditional practicums and school experiences.

Reflecting on her journey, Monica expressed resilience in the face of challenges. She highlighted the significance of pursuing goals that truly matter, acknowledging that setbacks may occur but should not deter one’s commitment. Her experiences with AIWG and the mentorship opportunity reinforced her belief that determination is a shared trait among both professionals and clients.

Monica described her doctoral program at ISPP as “exhaustingly energizing, mind bendingly intriguing, earth shatteringly important, bewilderingly sensible, frustratingly attainable, or uncertainly certain.” She emphasized the unique challenges and rewards of completing the program, underscoring its transformative impact on her personal and professional life.

Monica Zabinski’s journey at ISPP exemplifies the fusion of personal growth, social responsibility, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on her path to becoming a future psychologist.

Monica’s advice for prospective students echoes Aristotle’s wisdom: “The more you know, the more you realize you do not know.” She shared her initial fear of entering the practicum room with more questions than answers, emphasizing that becoming a psychology master takes time. Monica encouraged future students to embrace the complexity of the field, become comfortable with uncertainty, and practice self-compassion during their first year.