Dallas Psychology Doctor Teaches Students To Develop A Growth Mindset
Dr. Jana Flowers is a professor of psychology at Dallas County Community College District's Richland College. Flowers earned her bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees in Developmental (Child) Psychology from the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles.
Why did you pursue a master's degree?
"Having come from five generations of educators, I knew I was destined to teach and help others. It is through graduate internships and teaching and research opportunities within my master's and doctoral programs that I honed my skills in this fascinating field of study."
What would you tell someone who is considering returning to school to earn a master's degree?
"I would say work on developing a 'growth mindset.' It is your love of learning and your resilience that constitute the essential elements for great accomplishments. You need to manage your time and stress levels to maintain a balanced life with attention paid to your education and your relationships, your work, and your community life. This is challenging but doable."
What was the biggest challenge you faced when pursuing your master's degree?
"Technology. When I was in graduate school, room-sized computers did research analysis. I had to learn how to format computer cards to run my data. Today's students have access to better research programs. The study of psychology involves learning how to do therapy and how to conduct scientific research."
What was the biggest reward for earning the master's degree?
I was fortunate to work at Central City Community Mental Health for an innovative therapeutic reading remediation and self-esteem program for children. I witnessed the positive changes in motivation and confidence in children. From this experience, I knew I wanted to teach, counsel and conduct workshops and seminars to help children and adults live healthy, happy, productive lives. My joy comes from helping others reach their goals in life and helping them see the joy in their journey.
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
