Listen to part 1 of 2 in which Dr. Desiree Vega joins Dean Deil-Amen to explore the intersection of identity, advocacy, and purpose in the field of school psychology. Dr. Vega is a professor in the department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies (DPS). Dr. Vega reflects on her journey as a first-generation college graduate, and how her family's educational experiences shaped her commitment to equity in schools. She shares how she discovered school psychology, after originally planning to major in accounting, and the transformative impact of mentors, and her experiences working in underserved communities.

Listeners will gain insight into the systemic challenges faced by minoritized students, the critical shortage of school psychologists—especially those of color and those that are bilingual—and the importance of advocacy in educational spaces. Dr. Vega also discusses her transition from practitioner to professor, emphasizing the need for curiosity, purpose-driven work, and advocacy.

Part 2 will release Wednesday, October 15th.