My Unique Approach to Education

“I believe that when students realize what they want out of life, they pursue it wholeheartedly. Through engaging, practical, and experiential learning, students broaden and deepen their understanding of the subjects being taught. My goal as an instructor is to capture student enthusiasm and the quest for greater understanding and build on the strengths each student has within them. My greatest joy is walking alongside students to help students reach their educational and professional goals and watch their confidence grow in their abilities to serve as a counselor.”

– Dr. Samantha Culbertson

I took a career interest survey when I was a Junior in high school. The top career choices for me were Coach, Teacher, Counselor, Minister, and Real Estate Agent. Each of these choices have mostly resonated with me, but I knew that in order to “Let my Light So Shine” my service would be in public schools. I joyfully began my career as an enthusiastic 22-year-old as an English teacher and coach. Within my first year of teaching, the school counselor pulled me aside and asked me if I had ever considered going into the profession of counseling. While she planted the seed, I was adamant about teaching and coaching, until one Sunday morning, I heard the firm call to go back to school and get the degree. I was enrolled a few short months later and fell in love with ALL things Counseling! I have continued my service as a public school educator and counselor for the past 25 years and have loved it! I also knew that I was ‘meant’ to counsel people in a more personal way. I pursued my LPC credentials and began seeing clients and eventually opened my own private practice. I believe that no experience is ever wasted, and that God can use ALL things for His glory! And there was one more dream I had upon the shelf; my desire to teach and inspire counselors and the opportunity to pursue my doctorate landed me on journey toward my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. Teaching students at Amberton is a dream come true for me! I love teaching counselors, I love supervising counselors, and I love counseling! I look forward to serving students and helping them grow in their calling!