Student Spotlight: Dylan Schouppe
Learn how a psychotherapist in Alaska is making the most of the online MHS program
Hometown: Beaver, PA. Currently living in Anchorage, Alaska.
Online or in-person student: Online
What's one activity or hobby that helps you support your mental health? Meditation
What drew you to the Bloomberg School and the Master of Health Science in Mental Health program?
For me, when I consider the field of public health, there is only one name that matters: Johns Hopkins University. It's an institution synonymous with cutting-edge research and professional and academic authority. It was my number one program choice, and I was ecstatic to be admitted. The MHS in Mental Health program aligns perfectly with my desire to conduct research, pursue a public health career, and continue clinical practice.
"I enjoy the flexibility of remote learning, and best of all, I do not feel as though I'm compromising on connection and networking."
What is your research focus and what sparked your interest in it?
My research focus is in the area of suicide prevention. As a practicing psychotherapist, I sometimes sit with individuals that are in very dark places. I've been there myself, as have some of my friends. While I intend to remain in the clinical space, I recognize that I could have an impact on a more macro level by researching broader policies and interventions that prevent individuals from getting into those dark places and support those that are already in those dark places.
Tell us about a class, project, or faculty partnership that has been especially meaningful.
While I'm still early in time at Johns Hopkins, I've quickly built a relationship with my mentor, Emily Haroz. She took the time to communicate with me regarding my own career before I had even started the MHS program. She's taken me on as a mentee and also as a research assistant. I'm very excited to be working with her.
What do you like most about pursuing the MHS in Mental Health program online?
I enjoy the flexibility of remote learning, and best of all, I do not feel as though I'm compromising on connection and networking. I am in a fantastic cohort of students that includes many others that are also online/remote. We are frequently in contact with each other and support each other.
What do you hope to do with your Mental Health MHS experience after graduation?
I hope to continue a career in clinical practice that is more informed by the broader public health landscape. Additionally, I hope to remain in academia and further my education and research as a PhD student, hopefully at Johns Hopkins.