ERIC Number: EJ1477958
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2168-6653
EISSN: EISSN-2168-6661
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Pursuing a Career in Rehabilitation Counseling: Insights from Student Veterans in Rehabilitation Counselor Education Programs
Teresa Ann Granger; Charles Edmund Degeneffe; Emre Umucu; Alexandra Kriofske Mainella
Rehabilitation Research, Policy, and Education, v38 n2 p74-87 2024
Purpose: This qualitative study examined the motivations of student veterans to pursue a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling (RC), the reasons veterans chose RC over other helping professions, and the career plans of student veterans using a master's degree in RC. Method: Given the unique perspective of the participants, the study utilizes a phenomenological approach. Data were collected via an online survey from 33 student veterans enrolled in master's level rehabilitation counseling education programs across the United States. Results: Motivations to pursue an RC career included wanting to help fellow veterans, help others, and address other career-focused factors. Participants chose RC over other helping professions because of the profession's focus on disability or vocational rehabilitation. Participants described the choice as a vocational calling, a chance to work in a more desired work environment, and a response to effective program recruitment. Career plans included having a veteran-focused career, working with people with disabilities, pursuing nontraditional rehabilitation services, and being open to multiple career prospects. Conclusion: The RC profession appeals to student veterans for multiple reasons. Most participants possessed clear motivations and a career plan, in part, related to wanting to give back and assist their fellow veterans.
Descriptors: Student Motivation, Career Choice, Rehabilitation Counseling, Counselor Training, Masters Programs, Graduate Students, Veterans Education, Allied Health Occupations, Student Attitudes, Experience, Disabilities
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A