Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Galloway serves as a school counselor in Gastonia, North Carolina, where she has worked since 2020. She transitioned into counseling after several years as an EC teacher supporting children with disabilities during the pandemic and later as a kindergarten educator. Galloway recently graduated from Walden University with master's degrees in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. She earned her undergraduate degree in educational studies and psychology from Belmont Abbey College and an associate of arts from Gaston College. With experience working with children dating back to 2003, her first passion remains supporting those with special needs. She attributes her drive to her upbringing on the poverty line and her parents' emphasis on education, aiming to show students that their circumstances do not define their future. Galloway values showing up for others and strives to be the supportive counselor she lacked growing up. She notes challenges in the field such as budget cuts and limited resources but remains committed to balancing self-care with her dedication to students.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
Just wanting to be better. Growing up in the situation that I grew up in, on the poverty line, seeing my parents work day and night without finishing their degrees, and them pushing me and my sisters to get an education. I want to show people that you can do it and make it no matter what, even in the midst of difficulty. You have to keep going, find your why and your strength.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Always stay true to themselves. Take time for yourself because it's hard to separate work from home but you have to balance it. Do not take work home. Self-care is very important. Set boundaries. You can't take on everyone as a client.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Budget cuts from the government and state leading to not having enough resources for students and counselors. Recently many counselors were laid off due to lack of funds but some are being rehired.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being able to make a change and letting others know they are being seen. Showing up and being there for others even on my worst day. I want to be the educator and counselor that I never had growing up. I want the students to know that I tried and fought for them.
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