The Psi Chi Professional Development Grant is available to support the professional development efforts of MSP Psi Chi members to promote academic and professional excellence in psychology. The grant can be used for a variety of purposes, including APA and Division membership fees, journal subscriptions, conference fees, and more. Dalia Boussi (MA) and Ray Kaidbay (PsyD 3) are two of the eight students who were awarded the grant this year. They share how the award has benefited their development as future clinicians.
Dalia Boussi (MA)
During my undergraduate years, I didn’t fully grasp the importance of participating in research or embracing professional development opportunities. I wasn’t aware of how central these experiences are to the field of psychology or how they allow us to let our voices be heard. It wasn’t until I began my graduate studies at the Michigan School of Psychology that I truly understood the value of scholarly engagement and the many opportunities available to students and early career professionals.
MSP sparked my interest in scholarly research and helped me find the confidence to step into spaces I never thought I belonged in. Since beginning the MA program, I’ve joined APA, MPA, and Psi Chi, submitted proposals to three conferences, and prepared two presentations. I’ve also grown increasingly interested in attending professional conferences and contributing to the field in meaningful ways. These are steps I once thought were out of reach for someone like me.
Now, I understand that participating in professional development is not only essential, it’s a privilege. The support I’ve received from MSP and Psi Chi has empowered me to explore and embrace these experiences with confidence. I’m deeply grateful to be part of an institution that encourages and uplifts its students in their academic and professional journeys. Receiving the Psi Chi Professional Development Grant has eased the financial burden that often comes with these endeavors and has made it possible for me to continue growing as a student, researcher, and future clinician.
Ray Kaidbay (PsyD 3)
I am deeply honored and grateful to be selected as a recipient of the Psi Chi Professional Development Award. This recognition means a great deal to me as a doctoral student committed to both academic growth and clinical impact.
Thanks to this generous award, I was able to register for the Michigan Academy Conference. At the conference, I had the opportunity to present a research poster titled Empirically-Derived, Personal Theory of Therapeutic Change, which explores the mechanisms and effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Drawing from Beck’s (2020) work, my study highlights the dynamic relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and the transformative potential of CBT in clinical practice.
Presenting at the Michigan Academy was a deeply meaningful experience. It allowed me to share my academic contributions while engaging with fellow scholars and professionals across disciplines. This experience not only enriched my understanding of evidence-based therapy but also reaffirmed my commitment to bridging research and clinical work.
I am especially thankful to Dr. Kate Cusick and Stephanie Swanberg for their support and coordination of this award. I also appreciate Psi Chi’s ongoing investment in the development of future psychologists. It is opportunities like this that reinforce the value of community and mentorship in our field.
As I continue my PsyD training, I remain committed to contributing to research, scholarship, and compassionate care. I hope to give back by mentoring others and helping to create opportunities just as Psi Chi has done for me.
