Hamilton Alumni Profiles
Since its inception at Wheeler in 1989, Hamilton School has supported bright, curious learners with leading-edge educational strategies to put the accent on strengths not weaknesses. We are proud of our alumni of the program and happy to share these profiles of their life beyond Hamilton. Watch for more to come!
2021 Hamilton Alumni Panel
Watch the 2021 Hamilton Alumni Panel Video
Hamilton Alumni Profiles 2021
Madison ’06
What grade did you enter Hamilton?
7th grade
When did you leave Hamilton/graduate?
I graduated from Hamilton in 2006.
Talk to me about your learning difference(s).
I am diagnosed with ADHD and a learning disability, not otherwise specified. I struggle with auditory memory and processing abilities, as well as comprehending information that is communicated verbally. In other words, I need the information to be presented both verbally and visually, and repeatedly in order for me to retain and retrieve it.
What changed for you at Hamilton?
My academic needs were finally being met and attended to. Prior to Hamilton, I struggled to keep up in the classroom and teachers were unable to adjust their teaching style to meet my needs, which made me question my intelligence and self-worth. Once I attended Hamilton, I didn’t have to try to force myself to adjust to an impossible learning style because Hamilton adjusted to my individual needs. The teachers at Hamilton were the first teachers I encountered who could meet me where I was at, without judgment. There was this overall understanding that yes, I have a learning disability, and no, that does not mean I am incapable. Hamilton is where I began to accept my differences, and where I learned the skills necessary to advocate for myself.
If there’s one thing you could share with a current Hamilton student, what would it be?
Advocate for yourself! My parents were my biggest advocates as a child (and still are!) and as I grew older, they encouraged and guided me to advocate for myself. Learning how to speak up for myself was difficult, especially when it came to having a learning difference. However, developing this skill in middle school and high school is the reason I have been able to pursue such a rewarding career and have found a passion in advocating for others.
Where did you attend college, what was your major? Advanced degree?
I graduated from Stonehill College, with a major in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. I received a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine. This past fall, I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hartford.
What do you do professionally?
I currently work at Mass General Brigham as an Advanced Post Doctoral Fellow. I work in the Neuropsychology Clinic conducting neuropsychological assessments for adults. I also work in the emergency department conducting psychological crisis evaluations. I am currently in the process of earning my license to become a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.
What about your career do you find most fulfilling/interesting?
I get to pay it forward! As a child and young adult, it was difficult to understand and appreciate how much time, energy, and support people were providing me. At the time, I can’t say I enjoyed the countless hours I spent with psychologists, teachers, and other professionals. However, their unwavering support and efforts were the reason I had any chance of not only learning how to manage having a learning difference but also accepting my difference. I now get to be the person to provide support, guidance, and a sense of hope to others. I truly believe that the adversity I’ve faced from having a learning difference makes me a better psychologist. I love what I do and I couldn’t ask for a more rewarding career.
Any message for your readers?
To the Hamilton students, believe people when they say they believe in you. It took me a long time to believe in myself and my abilities, but I was fortunate enough to have some incredibly impactful mentors and teachers who saw my potential, despite my learning difference. Find those teachers/professionals/mentors and let them help you. They can see something in you that you just might not be able to see yet.