March 20, 2020

To celebrate Creative Arts Therapies Week and the incredible education the College of Nursing and Health Professions affords students, we caught up with some alumni who are more than happy to talk about their Drexel experience.

Aprill Hogue '20, MA Art Therapy and Counseling

Why did you choose the College of Nursing and Health Professions Creative Arts Therapies program?

I chose CNHP's CAT program because it afforded me the unique opportunity to experience a creative learning environment where I could learn among other students and staff alike, practicing other creative modalities.

How was your practicum/internship experience?

My practicums and internship experiences both helped me learn and grow as a developing clinician within the field of mental health. Within these experiences, I was able to advance my clinical skill set by working with many diverse populations as well as form and strengthen connections in both my professional work and academic settings. Additionally, I was also able to collaborate with on-site staff members to problem-solve, engage in meaningful discussions and programs and learn first-hand about the joys, challenges and realities of working in the field of health professions. These experiences enriched my individual learning process and really helped me cultivate and strengthen my professional identity as a clinician.

My on-site and off-site supervisors throughout these experiences were supportive, engaged and consistent with assisting me every step of the way as I developed both academically and clinically, and their ongoing support helped me navigate challenges as well as commemorate successes. These phenomenal individuals shared many valuable lessons, including from their own experiences, which I continue to embody and also share with creative arts therapists in training today.

What impact did Drexel’s CAT program have on you?

Overall positive! The program helped support me both in and outside the classroom, as I increased my ability to problem-solve, work collaboratively with other healthcare providers, and to trust the process as I navigate the intricate complex field of mental health. This program illuminated and changed the lens by which I view my work as a creative arts therapist and has made me all the more grateful to be apart of something bigger than myself. My empathy, creativity and curiosity continue to develop with each rich and meaningful interaction I have with clients, care partners, students and colleagues alike. The community I've fostered from the program continues to support me and that means the world to me.

What advice would you give someone applying to a Drexel CAT program?

• Be your authentic self, and be open to the process of change on your journey.
• Remain curious and ask questions about your field of study as often as you can.
• Continue to find ways to reconnect with your art (dance, music, visual, other) and with your community, remain engaged and connected to both.
• Practice self-care as much as can!

What makes you a proud alumni of Drexel’s CAT program?

I always enjoyed participating in classes and experiential workshops that encouraged collaboration with other creative modalities. This unique experience piqued my interest in interdisciplinary approaches to client care and in working in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to help improve the quality of life for the individuals we serve. I continue to value the special and meaningful connections I have made with my mentors and colleagues. There is a deep sense of community, commitment, and care within Drexel’s Creative Arts Therapies Department that persists—and I am proud to be apart of that legacy.