UMM Alumni Spotlight Shines on Tammy Carr

The Alumni Spotlight shines this week on Tammy Carr of Marshfield, a 2010 UMM graduate of the Behavioral Science and Community Studies program. Tammy is now a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)/Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)

Tell us a little bit about what you are doing now:

I currently work as an outpatient therapist at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing mental health and substance abuse services to individuals in need. I have the opportunity to work as part of an integrated team of medical doctors, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and fellow counselors to better serve the needs of our clientele.

What is the most valuable thing you learned while at UMM?

While at UMM I learned how to budget my finances as I was residing independently and working in order to support myself. I learned the importance of multitasking, working with others, and how to access and utilize resources.

Do you have any advice for current students at UMM?

My advice would be to embrace college life. Although I worked at the switchboard on campus for four years and was actively involved in Student Senate for a year, I failed to take part in the extracurricular activities the campus had to offer which would have been beneficial for self-care purposes.

How did your time at UMM prepare you for what you are doing now?

In my current career you need to be a good listener, have good social and communication skills, develop and maintain appropriate boundaries, and be flexible. My professors, advisor, boss at the switchboard, and the coursework at UMM fully prepared me for my role as the aforementioned individuals always made themselves accessible and encouraged communication with fellow students. My coursework in ethics helped me recognize the importance of boundaries while living and working in a small rural community. A counseling skills course taught me that it’s important to remain flexible, never get too focused on you own agenda, and be willing and able to meet clients where they’re at with an empathetic ear.

How has UMM made a positive impact on your life?

UMM has positively impacted my life greatly. I enjoyed my course of study at UMM so much that I chose to pursue additional education to obtain my Master’s Degree to advance my education and/or training in the same field. I am thankful to the University for encouraging me to continue following my passion and playing a big part of where I’m at today.