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Christopher Stevens earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2021 after transferring from the University of Iowa. He stayed at UIS to earn his Master of Arts in Human Development Counseling in 2023.
Today, he works as a mental health counselor in Charlotte, North Carolina, helping people work through challenges and improve their well-being.
Why UIS?
Christopher chose UIS because it offered a strong education close to home.
After two years at the University of Iowa, he decided he wanted to be closer to Springfield, where he grew up. UIS gave him the chance to stay near family while studying in programs that matched his career goals.
Christopher knew early that he wanted to study psychology.
“I’ve always been interested in people and what makes them happy, healthy, and whole. I wanted to pursue a meaningful career that has a direct impact on the lives of others.”
At UIS, he built that interest through classes, support from professors and hands-on preparation for counseling work.
His Time at UIS
Christopher enjoys reading, and one of his favorite places on campus was the Koi Pond. He liked to relax and read there between classes.
He also spent a lot of time at TRAC (The Recreation and Athletic Center). There, he found a love for fitness and trained for his first 8K race, the Lincoln Memorial Garden Trail Race. Running stayed important to him after graduation. After moving to North Carolina, he joined a run club that quickly became an important source of friendship and community.
Christopher also enjoyed grabbing coffee with friends at Starbucks in the Student Union. Small routines like this helped him feel connected to campus life.
During his master’s program, he became involved in the Springfield pickleball community, playing weekly and meeting new people. Building relationships on campus and in the community helped build relationships and shape the way he now works with clients as a counselor.
Mentorship That Made a Difference
One of Christopher’s favorite professors was Dr. Jordan Hyde.
“He always took the time to answer my questions and was open to challenging conversations,” Christopher says.
Their connection continued even after graduation, growing into a lasting professional relationship.
Building a Career in Mental Health
Before moving to North Carolina, Christopher worked at Living Hope in Springfield. He first worked there as a student while completing his master’s degree and later became a counselor after graduating.
Christopher says UIS helped prepare him for both his career and personal growth.
“UIS prepared me to think critically, manage my time efficiently, and utilize communication and networking skills to pursue my mental health career,” he says.
He also says that the university’s CACREP accreditation helped open doors in the counseling field.
Beyond academics, Christopher credits UIS in improving his ability to connect with others and grow in confidence.
“UIS helped me develop my social skills, find confidence, and learn to connect with others,” he says.
Advice for Future Students
Christopher offers this advice to students interested in working in mental health careers:
“Work hard, cultivate confidence, and find your authentic self. Make sure you are pursuing this career with the right goals in mind.”