Born and raised in the European country of Georgia, Nini Niniashvili, MS/MHC ’23,
made a life-changing move to the United States in 2012. Eager to further her education,
she attended Brooklyn Studio High School before double majoring in psychology and
criminal justice at the State University of New York at Albany. Now, as she earns
her degree from PCOM, she reflects on the people and experiences who brought her to this point.
Fluent in three languages, Niniashvili first learned English at just four years old. Her aunt instilled the love of education in her—utilizing her own degrees in English Languages and Pedagogy to teach Niniashvili the language.
“I realize how much she gave me,” she said. “Not only the inspiration but also the means to focus on success and achieving greater things. I will forever be thankful to her for everything that she has given me.”
Although she credits her entire family with her personal successes, her biggest source
of inspiration is just 16-months old. “Looking at my daughter, I think about how fast
she is growing,” she shared. “My aspirations for her to be her own person inspire
me to be the best version of myself.”
Excited to put her degree to use, Niniashvili hopes to work with trauma survivors in the future by running a private practice where services are infused with cultural competence and humility. “Deciding to pursue mental health counseling offered me a sense of fulfillment unlike any other. I want to be an example for my daughter and role model that she will look up to and be proud of.”
For those who are still working towards their degree, Niniashvili recommends taking deep breaths and focusing on the things you can control. “Believe in yourself! You are strong and resilient, even if life makes you feel otherwise sometimes,” she said. “Smile, take care of your mind, body, and soul, and watch the magic happen!”
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