Neuropsychologists and Clinical Neuropsychologists

A good way to learn more about this career is through a part-time or summer job in the clinic or office of a neuropsychologist. Volunteering at a local hospital, clinic, or nursing home is another way to gain experience in working with patients. Conduct an information interview with a professional working in the field to find out the steps they took to get where they are today. Perhaps you could also arrange a job-shadowing experience. Ask your school's career services office for help with finding job and internship opportunities. If you are more interested in working in research, join your school's science club, which may offer the opportunity to work on projects, document the process, and work as part of a team.

Get involved in a professional association to network with people working in neuropsychology and for access to educational programs and conferences. Find information on the Web sites of such organizations as the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (https://theaacn.org) and the National Academy of Neuropsychology (https://nanonline.org). Other organizations that offer helpful information include Mental Health America (https://www.mhanational.org) and the American Psychological Association (https://www.apa.org).

Participate in summer exploration programs for high school students in science, psychology, and related fields that are offered by colleges and universities to build your skills and meet people with shared interests.