Dallas Behavior Program Instructor Says Education Helps You Help Others
Samuel Brian Conerly is a behavior program instructor at Dallas Independent School District's W. H. Adamson High School. He tracks the behavioral progression or regression of students and provides daily social skills instruction. Conerly earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Langston University in Oklahoma and a master's degree in counseling from Texas Wesleyan University. He is a licensed professional counselor intern.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"It is a prerequisite for any advancement in teaching. If you want to advance outside of a classroom setting, you will need a master's degree. I have been a social worker dealing with high-risk children (those that were diagnosed with mental health and emotional issues). I wanted to help children further -- connect with them. Many people medicate children, and some do need medication, but it is important for them to learn to express their feelings and frustrations. Just because they are children doesn't mean they don't have the same feelings as adults, they do. Children need adults that are skilled in helping them handle special problems."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"Don't stand in your way by putting up obstacles that shouldn't be there. Get out there and do it. Once you get started, the things that appeared to be obstacles will start to disappear. Trust that everything will work out. Just keep going."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"Getting past my mental blocks. After I had completed my bachelor's degree, I said I wouldn't go back to school. I came up with all kinds of excuses on why I couldn't go back to school – not having the finances and not having the time."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
"Anytime you set out to work toward something and you accomplish it, that is a reward. Completing the program was the biggest reward so far for me. I would like to seek a counseling position and ultimately going into private practice."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com