Lauren Bard

Co-ops: I was a residential counselor at North Crossing, a group home for teens with emotional and behavioral issues. I also did a co-op with ACE (Adolescent Community Experience Program) in Rhode Island, at a secure, locked unit. I did body searches, urinalysis tests, and things of a forensic nature.

The co-op effect: Before my North Crossing co-op, I hadn't even considered working with teens. But that experience made the decision for me: I wanted to work with troubled kids. I chose my current job because I wanted to work with teens, using my degrees and drawing on my co-op experiences.

Lessons learned: My co-ops taught me patience. I learned de-escalation techniques, and how to function in less than ideal situations and stay calm. Most of these kids have mental health issues, and I learned a lot about psychological disorders.

Co-op to classroom: I minored in psych. It was amazing to study a disorder and be able to put a face to it. My fieldwork informed my class work, and my class work helped my fieldwork. It all relates directly to my current job working with kids who have major issues.

Career booster: Co-op not only lets you figure out what you do and don't want to do, it makes connections in your field and builds a network. Co-op is a résumé builder. It gives you experience. It prepared me well for the interview for my current job.

Life work: I'm a residential caseworker for the Department of Youth Services, the juvenile justice agency for Massachusetts. I work with serious offenders, ages 14 to 20. I enjoy the challenge of the work, being creative, and working independently. I intend to stay working in the juvenile justice system.