Student Profile

Jordana Novotny

Email: jordana.novotny@gmail.com
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Degree: Master’s
Major: Rehabilitation Counseling
Minor: N/A
Graduation Date: 12/15/2009

Why did you decide to study at HR&E?
I started a Rehab Counseling program at a different university. I found myself experiencing scheduling conflicts between the numerous organizations I volunteer for and attending/commuting to classes on a weekly basis. An friend of mine told me about this program at WVU. As soon as I began correspondence with Dr. Glenn, I knew this was the perfect fit for my busy lifestyle and career interests. I believe a student should find a program that is the “best fit” for their needs. I consider myself very fortunate to find a program that respected my academic goals and lifestyle needs.

What do you like best about HR&E?
When I was in my undergraduate, my advisor told me that a master’s degree program is what each individual student makes of it. I was informed that all universities have their pro’s and con’s. I believe this program is nothing but beneficial for me. It was my academic goal to find a program that would increase the flexibility of my schedule as well as provide me an opportunity to explore my social networking research interests. This program has exceeded my expectations by affording me both opportunities.

What is your favorite class? Why?
My favorite class is the multiple semester independent study coursework I am working on with Dr. Carolyn Hawley and Gregg Flood. Students at WVU have the option to sign up for any sort of independent research/study coursework of their choosing. It can be one or multiple semesters depending on what you can receive approval for enrolling in. I encourage all students to approach your advisor and inquire about more information about how you can personalize your master’s degree coursework to best fit your academic goals.

What do you like most about living in Morgantown/West Virginia?
I actually live in a rural town outside of Pittsburgh, PA. What I like most is the opportunity to be an e-campus student. I can reside in western PA and still attend this fantastic university.

What experience stands out the most since you began your studies at HR&E?
Our very talented and passionate professors are the experiences that stand out most to me. We are very lucky to have such brilliant and fascinating faculty members. Our professors love mentoring, teaching, and working with future rehabilitation counselors. I have learned more in the time I spent in this master’s degree program than I did at four years in my undergraduate Psychology program. I feel that the educational and personal engagement of our faculty members will prepare us to be talented additions to our field.