Graduate School Electronic Newsletter

Practical Knowledge

The science-practitioner model used by TU's graduate psychology programs has allowed Jill Wanner, PhD candidate in clinical psychology, to start training in practical applications of psychological techniques before finishing her degree.

The science-practitioner model used by TU's graduate psychology programs has allowed Jill Wanner, PhD candidate in clinical psychology, to start training in practical applications of psychological techniques before finishing her degree. This head-start will be invaluable for future career goals, as will the department's emphasis on training students in the ethical application of their craft.

Jill's outstanding commitment to the program enabled her to secure one of the first Bellwether Fellowships for doctoral students nearing the completion of their degree. Now she can focus all her attention on applying the lessons learned in her graduate coursework and its practicum requirements to perfecting her dissertation.

Jill cited the clinical psychology program's science-practitioner model, the University's high academic standards, and excellent professor-student relations as the reason TU was the "logical" choice for her.

"I have found the professors to be especially encouraging mentors, always willing to take time in and out of class to talk and offer advice," she said. "My time at TU has opened my eyes to many different areas of study under the broad category of clinical psychology and has allowed me to receive an education of the highest quality."

Jill's research interests include forensics, schizophrenia, psychological effects of racism among minorities, personality, and assessment. After graduation, she plans to continue her research into schizophrenia by securing a clinical psychologist position in a local penitentiary.