Alumni Spotlight: 
Q&A with Howard Lin 

California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University 
PsyD in Clinical Psychology, LA campus 

Professional Information 

Licensed Psychologist 
Logical Behavioral Health 

Q: How did your Alliant experience contribute to your career growth? 

A: Early on at CSPP, I attended a university discussion on Career Success for Graduate Students in Psychology. A well-respected professor said this on success, "Most of the time it's just showing up and doing a decent job. If you do that, you are already ahead of the curve." For some reason, I took that message to heart and attempted to apply it whenever I could. My mentality to be involved led me to unusual opportunities where I felt unqualified and out of place. Some of my experiences included presenting a topic to foster parents in Compton, discussing the meaning of life with inmates diagnosed with late-stage cancer, and developing a CSPP study abroad program for graduate students. Somehow I did a decent enough job that left a lasting mark for those involved. These countless moments, in and out of the classroom, mattered in my career path and prepared me to become a clinical psychologist. 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work? 

A: There is something magical about seeing people change and being part of that journey. The process of entering into their worlds, listening to their suffering, and opening their hearts and minds is truly rewarding. When my clients unlock life's possibilities and obtain positive outcomes, that experience is powerful and memorable. 

Q: What inspires you to make a positive difference in the world? 

A:  My inspiration comes from my personal struggle, overcoming it, and wanting others to do the same. I believe everyone has their own inner wisdom, but sometimes we forget what lies within and we need people to remind us. Sometimes we need others to sing the songs of our hearts, in order for us to realize what is really there. The center of my calling is to do just that. 

Q: Any advice you have for current students. 

A:  Invest your time beyond the classroom. I often looked for opportunities that were new and different from what I had the previous year. Be bold and take on challenges that you are afraid of. Even the "wrong decisions" helped me make the right ones later on. Be comfortable with failure and setbacks. I learned so much from my mistakes and supervisors' inputs. Befriend your cohort and colleagues; I received so many opportunities because of someone I knew. Most importantly, be joyful during graduate school as much as you can. 

If you would like to share your reflections in an Alliant alumni spotlight, please click here or email alumni@alliant.edu.