Carlos Mena, U'16, M'20
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Why did you choose to attend the University of Saint Mary, and what made it stand
out from other colleges you considered?
Initially, I chose Saint Mary because my brother was playing on the soccer team. He often spoke about his teammates and friends having fun on and off the pitch. It led me to choose Saint Mary too. As I stayed, what made USM stand out was the connection I was able to make with my roommates and teammates.
What have you been up to since graduating from Saint Mary?
When I graduated with my bachelor's degree in, I was able to work in entry level jobs for mental health. I returned to USM for my master's degree in counseling psychology. I was fortunate to be employed at USM, as an admissions counselor, while I completed my masters. I was able to stay in the KC area and enjoy all the sports, concerts, and events KC has hosted, like the World Cup! I got married and bought a house in 2024, which has been an adventure!
What is your current job, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Currently, I am a Licensed Master Level Psychologist working with people seeking services for mental health and/or substance use at a local Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic. What I enjoy most about my job is being able to help people and continue learning to improve my knowledge in the field.
How did your time at Saint Mary prepare you for your career?
At the undergraduate level, Saint Mary did well with providing me with an area of interest and classes that fostered that interest. At the graduate level, Saint Mary was flexible and with the requirement of a practicum, we were able to gain real experience. At all levels, we had professors that had worked in the field so they could give us real life prompts and information about our field.
What is a memorable experience you had during your time at Saint Mary?
Most of my memories came with my teammates! I always loved a random text to set up late night futsal in McGilley.
Have you stayed in touch with any of your professors or classmates?
I was able to keep in touch with some of my professors as I worked at USM. I still keep in touch with several of my teammates and classmates! Sometimes a simple text or social media. There are a few that stayed in the area, and I typically spend time with them when I can. I've been to weddings and have witnessed families grow.
What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates?
GET INVOLVED! Go to campus events, support your friends, volunteer in the community, make memories. Making connections is an important part of life and extremely useful for professional development.
Are there any achievements or milestones you would like to share with the Saint Mary community?
My biggest achievement so far is marrying my best friend! I am also working on finishing my clinical hours for advance licensure.
How do you stay connected with the Saint Mary alumni network?
Attend the Alumni Events! They are free, super fun, and held in great spaces!
What hobbies or interests are you currently pursuing?
Maybe I am getting older, but I love grilling and taking care of my lawn.
Do you have any favorite Saint Mary traditions that you still cherish?
Soccer alumni game has always been one of my favorite traditions! During undergrad, seeing soccer alumni return in the spring to play with us was great, but what was really special was seeing them hangout after. Since graduating, attending the alumni game has always been a priority! Now, USM has recognized the impact of these types of events and has made a commitment to sponsor them.