Julia Brown
Mansfield ISD
"Pursue your goals with passion, integrity, and perseverance."
Career Roadmap
Julia's work combines: Education, Writing, and Problem Solving
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Richland High School
Bachelor's Degree
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
University of North Texas
Graduate Degree
Counseling Psychology
University of West Alabama
Certification
Licensed Professional Counselor Certification
Lamar University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a School Counselor:
Bachelor's Degree: Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
Graduate Degree: Counseling Psychology
Certification: Licensed Professional Counselor Certification
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
Graduated from Univeristy
2.
Taught 7th Grade English Language Arts
3.
Taught first grade and kindergarten for 5 years; married and had first child
4.
Worked part-time directing a preschool program; completed my Master's Degree; had second and third children
5.
School counselor and special education liaison for five years
6.
Director of special program for emotionally disturbed children for 2 years; diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Inflammatory bowel disease, and optical tumor; divorced; moved
7.
School counselor in current position for six years while raising my children, managing my health, and completing courses for principal and licensed professional counselor licensure
8.
School Counselor of the Year State Finalist and Elementary Counselor of the Year for my school district; continuing to pursue advancement in my career as well as advocacy at the state level
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Family:
I've been told that working with elementary-aged children, and students with special needs, is not a valuable use of my abilities; I've also been told that the additional education I have pursued is too costly compared to salary potential.
How I responded:
I've repeatedly told myself, and had it confirmed through successes and recognition, that my career choice DOES make a difference!When a child learns to overcome trauma, value education in spite of personal struggles, and advocate for their needs I know I have impacted their lives. When I consult with teachers and see them grow as educators and connect with children, I know that my influence has reached even further. There are things I would change about my journey, but I am still moving forward
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
As a single parent who overcame a toxic relationship and continues to struggle with chronic disease, I have relied heavily on prayer, self-care, continuing my education, and surrounding myself with positive peers and role models.