Why did you choose to attend Catholic University?
I chose to attend CUA because the mission and values of NCSSS aligned with mine. It was important to me to begin my career as a social worker in an environment that promotes social justice along with valuing the dignity and worth of the people we serve.
What inspired you to go into social work?
Social work was the field where I could see myself empowering others and working with individuals and communities (and maybe the government). Although I majored in Psychology an undergrad, psychology did not encompass the person as a whole. I wanted to work with people and their environments, and social work was just that. Social work embodies promoting individual mental health and dismantling inequities and injustices seen nationwide.
What is the compass program?
Compass is a neighborhood-based, intensive case-management program that serves Wards 7 and 8. Compass provides 1 on 1 case management services to anyone interested in achieving any goal they have. Compass focuses on the partnership between Compass Partners (social workers) and Compass Members (clients) to promote self-sufficiency in members and support them in accomplishing their intended goals. Goals can range from attaining employment, starting a small business, or completing a GED program.
What do you do for Catholic Charities?
I am currently a 2nd-year intern at Catholic Charities. I interned at Compass for a year and a half and am now cross-training with the ChAMPS Program. At ChAMPS, I am able to provide mobile crisis services to DC youth and adolescents.
What’s your favorite part about studying Social Work at NCSSS?
My favorite part about studying Social Work at NCSSS is connecting with other passionate and excited students about the field. You build a community of social workers around you that empower you to continue striving for change. I also enjoy hearing about the different experiences that my professors have gained throughout their social work careers and how they each have such diverse experiences in this field.
What makes NCSSS special?
What makes NCSSS special is the diversity in faculty because students learn about how each of our social work careers is unique. The professors at NCSSS truly support students in doing their best within the MSW program and in their field placements. My professors have provided me with powerful insight and knowledge that will shape my social work career.
What’s your favorite class you’ve taken at NCSSS?
There have been so many classes that I’ve enjoyed at NCSSS, but my favorite has been Human Behavior and Social Environment. This class laid the foundation for my understanding of social theories and individual human behavior and how their communities and environments impact it.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work with Catholic Charities as a licensed social worker in DC. I also plan to further develop my clinical and community skills to work with and empower individuals of diverse backgrounds. I hope to one day have my own community-based mental health clinic in DC.