Laquita Becker found herself in an ideal situation three weeks before she would graduate in December 2015 with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling degree with an emphasis on children and adolescents from Viterbo University.

She had just been hired for the perfect job.

Becker is the youth and family services director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, where she will provide help and support to at-risk youth and other club members.

“The Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program was an amazing experience that definitely prepared me well for my role at the Boys and Girls Club,” said Becker, who also earned a Bachelor of Science in biopsychology degree from Viterbo in 2013. “I learned a tremendous amount about the development of children and adolescents.”

Becker’s passion for working with youth came from her experience at athletic camps as a member of the Viterbo women’s basketball team when she was an undergraduate student. She enjoyed seeing “the light bulb go on” for young people and seeing them be successful.

“My Viterbo experience has been life changing in so many ways, not just academically and professionally with my career, but also socially,” Becker said. “I’ve met so many great people here who I know will be part of my life forever. I received an outstanding education and I was completely prepared to take on my role at the Boys and Girls Club.”