Hayden Jones
3rd year | Health Emphasis / Pasco, Washington
Email | hjones35@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution | Northern Arizona University
Why I chose Pacific | I was initially drawn to Pacific’s PsyD program by the opportunity to receive specialized training in health psychology via the health emphasis. With an interest in primary care and family medicine, the application/interview process made it clear to me that Pacific was the place to go. Location was another extremely relevant factor as a PNW native.
Favorite thing about the program | Both faculty and coursework allow students to grow upon their clinical interests throughout the program. Despite being mainly health-focused upon starting here, I discovered a passion for psychological assessment and have ample access to various training opportunities to further explore this interest.
Favorite PsyD course | Personality Assessment, Projective Assessment, Brief Psychotherapies
Tips for getting observation hours / exposure to psychology (before applying) | Utilize your undergraduate environments as much as possible. Ask professors if they have any upcoming openings in their research lab. Explore internship and volunteer opportunities within the realm of psych in your area to gain clinical experience and find out what interests you. All in all, #doyourresearch
Career Aspirations | I see myself being largely involved in behavioral health consultant work within integrated care settings. Would love to also facilitate an assessment practice of sorts part-time in the future.
Hobbies | Tennis, skiing, beach volleyball
Makaya Truman
4th year | Health Emphasis | Las Vegas, Nevada
Email | trum4213@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution | High Point University
Why I chose Pacific | I chose Pacific University because of its long-standing APA accreditation and strong reputation for clinical training. What ultimately stood out to me was the program tracks that allowed for hands-on clinical experiences from specialized coursework and community practicum placements.
Favorite thing about the program | The facility! Every facility member at Pacific is deeply invested in helping students succeed and is always willing to offer guidance, mentorship, and opportunities tailored to your interests. They genuinely care about their students and go above and beyond to help you grow both personally and professionally. Having mentors who are so accessible and supportive has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience at Pacific.
Favorite PsyD course | Brief Psychotherapies - this is also a class that I'm a TA for ;)
Tips for getting observation hours/exposure to psychology (before applying) | Network! Psychology is a collaborative field, and many professionals are excited to mentor students who show genuine interest. Another tip is getting involved in volunteer opportunities, like crisis lines, because they can provide valuable exposure to the field. Your undergraduate professors and alumni can also be excellent resources for finding opportunities.
Career Aspirations | After graduation, I'll be serving as a military psychologist in the United States Air Force through the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). Long term, I hope to continue working in rehabilitation and health psychology, integrating neuropsychological assessment with brief, evidence-based interventions to help individuals adjust to illness, injury, and other complex medical conditions.
Hobbies | Being active (weight lifting, hiking, yoga, pilates) and trying new food/coffee spots in the area