Student Profile – Madison Goran 

Growing up in Miami, Madison Goran always felt drawn to understanding people and supporting them through life’s challenges. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at UCF in 2024, she chose to continue at the university for her graduate degree in Counselor Education through the Clinical Mental Health Counseling track. 

Goran was attracted to UCF’s nationally ranked program and its on-site Community Counseling and Research Center, where students gain early clinical experience without the need for off-site practicums. “It gives us consistency and helps shape us into well-rounded counselors,” she says. 

Research has been central to her academic journey. As an undergraduate, she completed an Honors Undergraduate Thesis on social media and personality disorders, an experience that strengthened her skills as an independent researcher. She now serves as Program Coordinator for the Knight Research Scholars Program, where she helps expand research opportunities for students and hopes to study team-based research in the future. Reflecting on her path, she says, “Research is the foundation of the orientations and techniques of counseling, and it continues to inspire me.” 

Through her studies, Goran has learned to embrace mistakes as part of growth and to balance academic demands with emotional wellbeing. She particularly values the open discussions and creative projects in her program, which allow her to explore ethical questions, cultural perspectives, and counseling techniques in depth. 

Beyond the classroom, she serves as President of the Graduate Student Association and has found community through her graduate assistantship with the Knight Research Scholars Program. These roles have broadened her network, strengthened her leadership skills, and deepened her commitment to advocacy. 

After graduating, Goran plans to pursue licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, followed by a PhD, a future in university teaching and research, and her own private practice. Motivated by her family’s longstanding dedication to education and service, she hopes to leave every space better than she found it.