“The experience was like no other,” he said. “As a Native American and person of color that grew up in a small town in northeast Oklahoma, there weren’t many people that I could identify with. It almost feels as if the AIIP program was specifically for me. Being able to interact with people I could relate with on such a personal level was amazing. Not only did I learn that there are people I can relate within my field of study, but I learned that there are a plethora of career options available to me. One of the most important things I learned from the program is that the road ahead of me is not simple, but it will be worth it to have the ability to aid those in need and make an impact on a unique level.”

Triece plans to become a therapist or counselor and work with children in the foster care system.

First-year clinical psychology doctoral student Clayton Edwards, a member of the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, plans to work in a children’s hospital after completing his degree.

He credits the AIIP program with helping him tremendously as an undergraduate and now graduate student.

 “The funding that I received from the AIIP program as an undergraduate was a life-changer and truly provided a means for me to finish out my undergraduate career,” Edwards said. “Not only did the scholarship provide me with the ability to continue my education, but this program gave my education even more direction. The skills that I developed during the program helped me transition into my work as a research assistant in a Pediatric Clinical Psychology lab here on campus. I truly believe that I would not be where I am today without the American Indians Into Psychology program.”