Career Path Of An Executive Director Of Clinical Services At Rethink First
Angela's career path began with an unexpected opportunity; after a college class focusing on neurodiversity sparked interest in autism, a chance encounter led to a job at an autism clinic immediately after graduation. Years later, this initial passion for working with autistic children and their families continued at Rethink First in New York City, where Angela now holds the position of Executive Director of Clinical Services.
Career Exploration, Autism, Mental Health, Nonprofit, Clinical Services
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Angela Nelson
Executive Director of Clinical Services
Rethink First
UCLA
Master's in Counseling from Cal State Northridge and Doctorate in Education from USC
Psychology
Education, Technology
Operations and Project Management
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Angela's initial uncertainty about her career path and how a college class sparked her interest in neurodiversity and autism.
2. Her accidental job opportunity after graduation, highlighting the importance of networking and unexpected chances.
3. Her sustained career in the field, showcasing dedication and passion for working with autistic individuals and their families.
Transcript
Could you walk me through your career path? I'd like to hear about your experiences in college, any internships or jobs you had before your current role.
When I went to college, I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to work in the psychology realm, but I wasn't sure about grad school at that point.
In my last quarter at UCLA, I took a class called Behavior Modification. It focused a lot on neurodiversity, particularly autism, and I found it really fascinating.
Early on, as a young teen, I babysat a boy with autism, so I was always interested in that. It was really neat to come back to it in college.
By coincidence, one of the last days before graduation, I happened to be seated next to someone who got a job at an autism clinic not far from campus. She got me an interview.
I started working there the day after graduation with kids and teens with autism and I totally fell in love with it, with that part of the work and with working with their families and parents.
Years later, I moved to New York City with my now husband and started at the company I'm still at, Rethink First, working in a similar capacity.