Contact: Lydia Palmer
STARKVILLE, Miss.—Two Mississippi State College of Education graduate students are joining the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Magnolia Clinical Scholars Training Program this fall.
Heaven Brewster and Harry “TJ” Bobak have been accepted into the UMMC program which offers training in integrated behavioral health care for doctoral and master’s level students in psychology and counseling.
Brewster of Toomsuba is a graduate student in MSU-Meridian’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. She was recommended for the program by her advisor, Rosanne Nunnery, associate clinical professor in MSU-Meridian’s Division of Education.
“Heaven's demonstration of her eagerness to grow and learn inspires others,” Nunnery said. She added that her endorsement of Brewster for the internship was due to her unwavering dedication, professional demeanor, constructive interaction with peers, and her receptive attitude toward new experiences, ideas and feedback.
Bobak of Green River, Wyoming, is in his final year in MSU’s School Psychology Ph.D. program. His advisor, Kayla Bates-Brantley, nominated him for the program.
Bates-Brantley, an assistant professor in the Department of Counseling, Higher Education Leadership, Educational Psychology and Foundations, noted that Bobak’s spirit of service stands out. As a graduate assistant for the university’s ACCESS program, Bobak worked with students with intellectual disabilities, implementing positive behavior interventions and support.
“Knowing TJ, I can also say without a shadow of a doubt, he has one of the biggest hearts for service I have ever witnessed within a doctoral student,” Bates-Brantley said. “He presents himself in a professional and mature manner and is beloved by his clients and their families.”
Bobak is looking forward to learning more about medical and educational consultation services, effective mental health services, and behavioral therapy treatment delivery in rural and underserved areas.
“I hope this will enhance my knowledge to provide better services as a practicing licensed psychologist focused on human engagement through organized sport,” Bobak said.
Established in 1903, MSU’s College of Education is home to five academic departments, one research unit and numerous service units. For more, visit www.educ.msstate.edu.