Psychology

Photo of Samantha Straughn
Photo of Samantha Straughn

Samantha Straughn

Overview

I interned at the Victim Services Center at Montgomery County, and worked as a volunteer for their 24-hour hotline service. After going through extensive training I was certified to provide counseling for the callers, and was able to provide resources to help those in need. I also worked on accompaniments, during which I could go to hospital or police stations to provide support and resources for victims of crimes.

What Was Valuable About the Experience

The experience was so valuable to me because it allowed me to help people directly, as soon as they reached out for help. Working on the hotline and knowing how to handle any situation was the best learning experience I could have asked for.

The Coolest Part of the Experience

The coolest part of the experience was talking to the other counselors and workers at the Victim Service Center’s offices, and hearing about the people who had called the hotline and received the help they had needed.

Who I Met that Made a Difference

Lauren Keeley, my instructor in training and my contact for the hotline, not only taught me everything I needed to know, but also gave me the confidence to trust myself when handling a difficult situation. She was the reason that I felt comfortable enough talking to people in need, and I loved being able to work with her so closely. 

Major

Psychology

Minor

Art History, Creative Writing

Activities

Student Government, Campus Activities Board, UC Ambassadors, Writing Fellows