MA Student Spotlight

Ashley Kierpal

Hometown: Milford, MI

Program: MA

Book I would recommend: The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

Favorite Quote:

“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy, and mutual valuing.” Rollo May

What is a cause you’re passionate about?

Coming from a law enforcement family, I have always been passionate about promoting wellness for first responders. My father, mother, brother, husband and I were all law enforcement officers. My parents, brother, and I were also all military veterans. I have seen first hand how these careers, including the trauma and stress from the rigorous demands of the job, affects people. I intend to advocate for programs and changes to address the mental health of military members and first responders.

How does a psychology degree fit into your life’s plans?

I am fortunate that my law enforcement agency is one of the only police agencies in the entire country who have their own behavioral science unit with clinical psychologists who are direct employees of the department. This unit provides free counseling to the agency’s troopers, civilian employees, and their families. If accepted to the unit, I hope to use my degree to be a part of this great program. I intend to obtain my doctorate (contingent that I get accepted to the doctoral program). Again, if my department allows it, I hope to remain working for my department and utilize my degree to actively promote mental health in the department.

Why did you choose MSP?

I chose to attend MSP because of the strong emphasis on the values of humanistic psychology. I believe the core principles of humanistic psychology, such as encouraging individuals to strive for self-actualization, practicing mindfulness, and reframing negative events or thoughts in a more positive manner, can be translated into programs that can assist first responders and military members when processing trauma and stress. Due to the emphasis placed on the individual, I feel these ideas can be embraced by individuals in these career fields.

What makes MSP special?

The encouraging and supportive environment of MSP really distinguishes MSP from other graduate schools and programs.

All of my professors so far in the program have actively engaged with my classmates and me when discussing the material. They have encouraged questions and comments during lecture, and they have always provided me with thoughtful, useful feedback on my assignments. The students encourage each other. Psi Chi allowed me to present a workshop based on my experiences as a law enforcement officer.

I would never have considered attempting to pursue a doctorate degree before being exposed to the supportive and positive environment of MSP. The staff and students of the school, to me, actively encourage the attainment of everyone’s goals, and I feel fortunate to be included in this community.