Passion and Purpose Lead Antwan McKenzie-Plez
Antwan McKenzie Plez
September is National Recovery Month and offers the opportunity to highlight the passion and purpose of the students and faculty in Union’s M.A. with a major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counseling – Graduate Certificate programs.
Passion and purpose to help individuals recover is why Antwan McKenzie-Plez sought a career as a counselor. He will graduate in October with a M.A. in CMHC and a graduate certificate, prepared to make a difference in the lives of many. Learn more about Antwan in the Q&A below.
Q. What do you plan to do with your degree?
A. I am pursuing my passion to work with developmentally disabled adults. The drug abuse in this group is overlooked because there has been little to no research in this area. I am working to influence policy to help these individuals. The CMHC major requires an internship and now I am employed fulltime in a career where I can help people.
Q. What led you to this program?
A. I also completed my undergraduate work at Union and I was very pleased with my experience. I had to have a program that produces the brightest and best and I knew the highly regarded Clinical Mental Health Counseling major would prepare me to make a difference. I knew that I would be part of a cohort that offers the opportunity to share and learn from each other. The cohort became an extension of family. The camaraderie among my fellow students is extraordinary.
Q. Why did you choose Union for your studies?
A. Union offers personal growth. The program requires you to know yourself so you can help others. Counselors can’t be effective without self-awareness.
Q. If you could give a piece of advice to your 20 something, what would it be?
A. Do not put off your passion. Go for it!
Q. Who has influenced you the most in your life, and how have they influenced you?
A. My grandaunt took over the role of grandmother to me. She has been my biggest supporter. She taught special education for 40 years and inspired me to give of myself.[vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqhqPDKky5o” el_width=”50″ align=”center”]