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Did any one person of thing influence you to be a social worker?
As a child I knew I wanted to do something to help people. But I never really knew what it was called. I was very active in church and thought maybe I would be a missionary. When I was working at my present job as a substance abuse counselor, I realized that many of the smartest, most interesting and compassionate people I worked with were social workers. Suddenly everything was clear - I knew what I was meant to do. So, I enrolled in the USI MSW program.
What do like the best about USI?
I love that it is ever-changing, something new and exciting is happening all the time. All the new construction just blows me
away! As far as the Social Work Department, the professors have made just a fantastic experience. Their teaching and the relationships with other students have made me hungry to learn new things. My cohort is fairly small and really diverse, so you really have to stay on top of your game - No hiding behind the anonymity of the group!
What college activities or community service did you
participate in to prepare you for this career?
I came into this a little late. I graduated from USI with a degree in Interpersonal Organizational Communications. I did some volunteer work with Albion Fellows Bacon Center, a home for abused women. But I didn’t do a lot of volunteering while I was an undergrad. I think my foundation for social work came earlier from being involved in my church as I was growing up in Brazil, Indiana.
What was your favorite college class?
The global studies class I took with Dr. Turner- Frey. We went to Jamaica and did assessments with children in an orphanage. We were way in the mountains - The real Jamaica. This wasn’t your standard vacation trip by the sea. It was a real step outside my comfort zone.
What is the most demanding part of your job?
Balancing full-time work, family and an internship with the school corporation. Keeping all those separate is tough. Their are many differences between working with kids and adults.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
As advocates, we have a privileged position. We hear people’s stories which they might not have ever shared with anyone else. You have to build up an enormous amount of trust to break through those walls. To build a trust and therapeutic alliance with someone is awesome.
If you could choose any occupation (no limits) what would it be?
I think social work is the best profession ever, and I feel that I was always meant to be one.
What advice would you give someone entering the social work field?
Watch people who know what they are doing and latch onto them. It is really important to find that person who still has a passion and enthusiasm for what they are doing. Learn all you can from them.
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