June 14, 2021, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful.
Julie Schaefer-Space understands how much the students in her GRCC Psychology courses are juggling -- she was once on their side of the classroom.
“I’ve known I wanted to be a psychologist since I was 5 years old,” she said. “I went to Caledonia High School and took all the classes I could and told my advisor I wanted to start my college: Why couldn’t I go to Grand Rapids Junior College? Early college programs did not really exist, but we made it happen. My first class was PY 201 with an awesome faculty member!”
Schaefer-Space continued at GRJC while working more than 40 hours a week at a group home for developmentally disabled adults. After graduating with her associate degree in 1982, she attended the University of Michigan with a full-ride scholarship.
“I lived on my own, worked hard and did not lose focus of my goal to be a psychologist,” she said.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in 1984 and received a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Eastern Michigan University in 1990.
Schaefer-Space has worked as a psychologist ever since, including with the YWCA and Psychology Associates of Grand Rapids. In addition to her work as an adjunct instructor at GRCC and Kendall College of Art and Design, she treats clients at Shared Steps Counseling and Life Journey Psychological Services.
“I have come full circle, as I have now been a psychologist for over 30 years, treated over 6,000 clients, testified in court over 600 times, and been named on the state of Michigan Court of Appeals for decisions related to grandparents rights.
“It has been my privilege to teach and learn. Thank you, GRCC, for being pivotal in my life to helping me accomplish my goals and continue to pass it on.”
Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply.