Lindsey Dasher, a Master of Science in counseling student at the University of North Georgia (UNG), wears many hats. Dasher takes classes at UNG's Cumming Campus and online while also being a mom.
Stemming from her love and passion for working with animals, Dasher earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia (UGA) in psychology like many zookeepers. She worked with elephants for a short period before transitioning into administrative work. She now works as a bookkeeper for a small accounting firm.
While at UGA, she minored in sociology, fascinated by studying why people behave the way they do. Now that she has chosen to return to school, it comes as little surprise she chose counseling.
"It's been on my mind and on my heart for a very long time," Dasher said. "I just finally stopped ignoring it and decided to pursue it."
After meeting with a professor in the counseling program in January 2020, she felt UNG would be the best place for her. Inspired by her sister who also received an education while being a mom, Dasher learned that it would ultimately be important to manage her priorities.
"I'm present when I’m with them, and when they're not with me, I focus on school work," said the Guyton, Georgia native.
Dasher serves as treasurer for Chi Sigma Iota (CSI), a counseling program fraternity. Being involved in CSI has allowed her to gain more interactions with her professors, which she values. She's also able to feel more connected considering she is a little older than the typical student and has a lot more outside responsibilities.
The organization has also been a great venue for giving back to her community as the group partnered with the Women in Technology club to start up a professional clothing closet on UNG's Dahlonega Campus. The act of service was a way for Dasher and her organization to be advocates for her fellow students.
Dasher plans to graduate in spring 2024 and work with a private-practice group. While she initially didn't pursue her graduate degree due to a lack of self-confidence, she hopes to advise her peers who may be in the same boat to trust the process.
After thinking about her experience, Dasher recalls that the beginning can be frustrating, but shares it will make sense as students keep going. Professors are resources, she said, and encourages her peers to not be shy. Asking questions is key, as other people might have the same questions. Most importantly, she shared that students shouldn't be afraid to share their experiences.
"A lot of my classmates say, 'I don't know how you do it,' but we all have the same amount of time in a day," Dasher said. "Use the resources that we have, and know that you are not doing it alone."