As a new postdoctoral resident in 2019, I was nervous about the prospect of transitioning from a “forever-student” into an early career psychologist. After so many years on a prescribed path, it was tough to imagine forging into the job force without a clear plan. Searching for a tether of sorts, my supervisor recommended ADAA and the Alies Muskin Career Development Leadership Program (CDLP). Little did I know the impact this program would have in the trying times ahead!

Despite the program being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDLP committee stayed connected with their awardees and facilitated discussions with our assigned mentors. To my surprise, my mentor reached out, set up a phone call, and spent an hour of her time answering my questions and providing general guidance on making the most with ADAA. Given the state of the world, it was both helpful and touching to have guidance and support as I muddle through a pandemic job search and existential professional growth. 

As the program transitioned to virtual for the 2020 conference, the CDLP committee continued to impress with their clear effort to address real world and societal change, as well as create a virtual space to build meaningful, personal relationships amongst mentors and awardees. Moreover, the mix of research and clinical practice was a breath of fresh air I sorely needed. It was enlightening to hear the impact of the pandemic across our fields, as well as to brainstorm creative solutions for ourselves, our clients, and our work environments.

After such a wonderful experience, I feel so lucky to have received this award and have found a true home in ADAA. For me, and hopefully for you, CDLP is only just the beginning. Since my experience, I have kept in touch with my mentor, joined various interest groups, and been offered additional experiences (like writing my first blog post). I know I’ve found a lasting professional home for myself, and so I highly recommend the CDLP program as well as joining ADAA as a member.