Major: Social work, MSW
Hometown: Columbia, South Carolina
How USC changed my life: As a non-traditional graduate student in the MSW program, coming in with a lifetime of experiences and a career as a counselor, I set out to learn more. And learn I did. Social work is vastly different than it was in my day; I love that one can work virtually in any setting. What I love more is that the professors were not just teachers, they were also social workers. Their compassion and humanity were something I found a connection to. I am first-generation as my parents never went beyond high school due to wars and circumstance, however both my parents were brilliant people and put a lot of stock in education. I am very proud of this university and its social work program. I have grown both as a person and as a professional through the work and the internships, and I have received validation from my supervisors and professors. I graduate this May, so I am working on my resume, my licensure application, and my job hunting.
A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories is the last day of my evaluation class with Professor Stephanie Hunter. This professor is one of the best human beings that I have been lucky to know. On the last day, she asked the class for any last comments, and I told her I think of her as a very human and compassionate person. She said she felt the same about me, and she told me that I contributed a lot to the class. Professor Hunter Zoomed with me to help me with a statics problem even though she was leaving for a trip. We were known to hold our Siamese cats up to show each other our babies. And she has a puffy haired adorable dog as well. Professor knows my dream is to work and live in Charlotte, and has offered to be a reference for me. Professor Hunter is a shining example of the caliber of professors in this department.
Advice for incoming students: Be open to learning a broad range of information and to test what you know. Be willing to become vulnerable, non-judgmental and challenged. You are here for an education in social work; and the professors will give you what you need to leave here as a social worker. Don't ever be afraid to ask questions; the teachers love them. Utilize your advisers, manage your time, balance your life. Attend events on campus, especially those that can teach cultural sensitivity. Do not be afraid to grow and you will thrive. Get to know your professors, they are approachable and willing to help you. Pick internships out of your comfort zone at first, that is how I discovered I like macro work as much as micro work.
What I’ve learned about myself: I have learned that I am a wonderful, compassionate, kind, authentic, empathic, thoughtful, and friendly person. I have learned that I am an advocate of some things, and a champion for social justice and equal rights. I have learned how important my ethnicity and religion is to me, it helps me with my values, beliefs and lends itself to my strong moral compass as a person in our society. I have learned more cultural sensitivity, and networking with diverse people. I do look forward to continued work with young people, and marginalized people, as well as running groups and developing programs in my next position. I feel ready to move on to become a social worker. I just pray I pass that licensure exam!
What played a role in my success: There are so many professors that have impressed me and that have helped me, including Professor Hunter, Professor Farber, Professor DiNovo, Professor Webber, Professor Penney, Professor Budlong, just about every teacher I had was great. My internships at Habitat for Humanity and Presbyterian College have been wonderful, healthy environments for me as well. All my professors and supervisors in field have encouraged, validated, and supported me throughout the program. I would be remiss if I did not mention, Sonya Singleton, Camea Cato and Mary Grace Strickland for the pure hilarity and support that means the world to me. And thank you to Arlo for the emotional support (Sonya's dog).
What’s next: I hope to find work in the Rock Hill, Gastonia, Charlotte area. I would like to work in a nonprofit where I can provide therapy, groups, and programming. I would like to move, and live closer eventually. And I would like to board my horse at Anna Springs Greenaway and ride to my heart's content.