Social Work Month is an annual event celebrated in March to recognize and appreciate the dedication and impact of social workers in our communities. To mark this occasion, we launched a social media campaign that showcased the stories and perspectives of over 30 social workers in the profession and education journey. By sharing their stories and insights through this campaign, we hope to bring awareness about the unique, varied, and vital roles social workers play in our society and inspire others to consider a career in this rewarding field.  

We know our list of all the social work creators out there isn’t exhaustive, but here are some we’ve seen and connected with who we encourage you to follow. If you have others in mind, please drop us a line on Instagram at @socialworkdegrees. 

Anna Shull 

"There are too many people in this world who have been treated as if they are not valuable." Anna Shull, MSW and content creator

Anna Shull is an LMSW and content creator, working in mental health with incarcerated adolescents. She was also @socialworkdegrees very first social media ambassador! 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker? 

“My favorite part of being a social worker is getting to watch clients achieve goals they might have never thought were possible. Partnering alongside clients and witnessing progress they make is infinitely rewarding.” 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work? 

“Entering college, I knew I wanted to “help people,” but I had no idea how I actually wanted to do so. What eventually drew me to the field of social work (and has kept me here since) are social work’s values and how much they align with my own personal values. It feels good to do work you agree with. Specifically, social work’s respect for the inherent dignity and worth of individuals keeps me inspired in the work I do. There are too many people in this world who have been treated as if they are not valuable; no matter the area of the field a social worker is in, they can empower individuals and that is something special.” 

Subscribe to Anna on YouTube and follow her on TikTok and Instagram


Bodequia Simon

"I love that I can be creative in the work that I do." Bodequia Simon, LMSW, Library Social Worker and founder of Black Girls in Social Work BGSW

Bodequia Simon is an LMSW, Library Social Worker, and Founder of Black Girls in Social Work, a network providing support and resources to Black Girls in Social Work. ⁠She is a Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Social Work Creative, Author, and Speaker.⁠ 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker? 

“My favorite part of being a Social Worker is the limitless opportunities that I am constantly discovering in the field. I would have never imagined that I’d serve people in schools, hospitals, their homes, and now at a library! I love that I can be creative in the work that I do and I’m able to see directly how it impacts my community.” 

Follow Bodequia on Instagram and visit her website here


Carolyn Villareal

"My passion for supporting individuals in developing a healthy mental well-being motivated me to pursue a career in the field of social work." Carolyn Villareal, MSW graduate and content creator

Carolyn (@carolynnicolev) is a recent MSW grad and content creator documenting her grad school journey.   

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker? 

“My passion for supporting individuals in developing a healthy mental well-being motivated me to pursue a career in the field of social work. My favorite part of being a social worker is assisting clients in accomplishing their goals and enhancing their quality of life.” 

Follow Carolyn on Instagram and subscribe to her YouTube channel


Catherine M.

"I love showing other Social Workers what's possible." Catherine M., LCSW, coach, speaker and host of Social Workers Rise

Catherine is an LCSW, a coach, speaker, and the host of Social Workers Rise, ranked as a top career podcast. 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker? 

“My favorite part about being a Social Worker is using my skills in new ways. I went from being a Medical Social Worker to podcaster and now a trainer and coach! I love showing other Social Workers what’s possible and helping them reach their full potential while preventing burnout.” 

Follow Catherine on Instagram and check out her podcast, Social Workers Rise


Cristino Chavez

"Social work is universal, diverse, and multifaceted." Cristino Chavez, LMSW, Phd Student, Adjunct Professor, Forensic Social Worker and Trauma Therapist, Immigration Court Health Evaluator

Cristino is an LMSW, a PhD Student, Adjunct Professor, a Forensic Social Worker & Trauma Therapist, and an Immigration Court Mental Health Evaluator.

What do you want people to know about the work you do? 

“Whether it’s providing clinical services as a therapist, addressing the needs of immigrant individuals and families on a community level, conducting research as a research consultant, advocating for policy change as an advocate, or even teaching as a professor at a university, social work is universal, diverse, and multifaceted. Never assume you’re tied to one field or scope of practice when becoming or wishing to become a social worker.” 

Follow Cristino on Instagram


Cynthia C. 

"I travel to childcare centers throughout the country that need support." Cynthia C., LMSW and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant

Cynthia is an LMSW and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant with a BSW from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and an MSW from Salisbury University

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker? 

“Being able to work in many different fields and settings. After graduating in May 2020, I took a child therapist position at an elementary school. This quickly became very challenging, to say the least, because we were trying to navigate being virtual while also having many feelings about what was going on in the world. In addition to imposter syndrome, I also realized that I was not happy with what I was doing but I knew that I still wanted to work with children. Through a connection, I was able to score a position in the early childhood field as a child development specialist working with children ages 0-3. Here I worked with parents and coached them to help with challenging behavior or setting up routines.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do? 

“I’m in the early childhood field but now doing consulting. As a consultant, I travel to childcare centers throughout the county that need support with challenging behavior. I work with the director and teachers and support them with different strategies for the child to ensure that they have a positive experience in childcare. In addition, I collaborate with the child’s caretaker to supply additional resources if needed and to inform them that the strategies that are used in the classroom can also be applied at home. In working collaboratively, we give the child the tools they will need when they enter kindergarten.” 

Follow Cynthia on Instagram


Dr. Syrenia J. Winters 

"My heart and soul is in my work." Dr. Syrenia J. Winters, LCSW-S, CLC, mental health professional, author and more

Dr. Syrenia J. Winters, LCSW-S, CLC, SAP, is an expert on mental health, self-care, rural healthcare, wellness, and racial trauma. A professor, mental health professional, and author, Syrenia provides expertise to healthcare professionals, athletic organizations, public and private organizations, institutions of higher learning and faith-based groups, and businesses that are looking to make it easier for their employees to know more about holistic health and signs of mental illness. 💜⁠ 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work? 

“I was inspired to get into the field because of my love for psychology and helping others. I was instructed to talk to a social work advisor in undergrad who had his own practice, was an author, professor, and looked like me. I instantly knew this was what I wanted to do also.”  

What do you want people to know about the work you do? 

“It’s more than a career or a job. Each person I serve or work with gets a piece of me in each interaction. My heart and soul is in my work. I’m glad to be a part of changing what social work looks like.” 

Follow Dr. Syrenia on Instagram


Harleny Vasquez 

"It all comes down to how you market yourself." Harleny Vasquez, Licensed Social Worker and CEO/founder of your EVOLVED mind

Harleny Vasquez is a First-Generation Latina and a Licensed Social Worker with 10 years of experience working in social services providing trauma-informed care. She is CEO and founder of your EVOLVED mind, a career consulting firm dedicated to supporting social workers in all stages during their career development. As a Social Work Career Coach, she focuses on helping social workers rebrand to market themselves effectively to get hired in any area of practice. ⁠Her area of expertise includes resume and cover letter writing, LinkedIn optimizing, personal branding, job search strategy, salary negotiation and confidence building.  

What do you want people to know about the work you do? 

“You are able to utilize your social work degree to work in any area of practice including non-traditional roles. Before having my own career consulting business, I worked as an LMSW in social services working with children and families providing trauma informed care. I then utilized my skills to step into a leadership role where I started hiring and recruiting staff members for the team. It led me into starting my business and into recruiting in non-profit spaces. I then turned toward recruiting in mental health tech. It all comes down to how you market yourself.” 

Follow Harleny on Instagram and check out her podcast, Social Work Insider


Jocelyn Sailor

"The impact that school social workers can make in the education system is so important." Jocelyn Sailor, LCSW, School Social Work Coach and owner of School Social Work Solutions

Jocelyn Sailor is an LCSW and a School Social Work Coach! She is also the owner of School Social Work Solutions, offering both physical and digital planners and resources for School Social Workers and School Mental Health Professionals. She also consults with school districts to provide mental health trainings to staff. ⁠

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“I am the owner of School Social Work Solutions LLC which is a stationery and consulting business. I created physical and digital planners for school social workers and social work students. In addition, I consult with school districts and provide mental health training to staff. Visit my website for information on my business – www.schoolswsolutions.com” 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I am currently a School Social Work Coach and consultant. I love educating, mentoring, uplifting and inspiring other social workers in education and beyond. I have many experiences in the social work field that have shaped who I am, from working in non-profit to child protection to medical social work to private practice and currently education. My favorite part of my job is when the lightbulb goes off for the social workers I coach because they have mastered or tried a new intervention and it works! I get energized by working with new social workers/new grads, who are eager and have fresh new ideas to bring to students and school communities. The impact that school social workers can make in the education system is so important and when school social workers are used properly, they make a huge difference in the lives of students, parents and educators alike.” 

Follow Jocelyn on Instagram and check out her website! 


Kat G.

"I genuinely love going to work every day." Kat G., MSW, LSW and content creator

If you’re on the social work side of TikTok, you may recognize this creator as “thegenzsocialworker”. Kat G. is a Chicago based MSW and LSW, and social work content creator. 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I was aware of the value of helping people within vulnerable populations and of linking people to the resources they needed. I knew that I wanted to be a part of a field that made a difference – social work is the one that stood out to me. I quickly realized that social work was such a diverse profession that I could work as a therapist, shelter coordinator, and so many other roles. I realized at this point that I belonged in the social work field. I was aware of how essential it was to me to have the chance to influence people on a variety of scales, including the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.” 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“There are many reasons that I enjoy working as a pediatric social worker/therapist. Working with kids who have neurodevelopmental diagnoses is something I’ve always wanted to do. As I watch my clients flourish, I love being there for them. I genuinely love going to work every day. In addition to this, I adore having the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from various fields to offer my clients a comprehensive treatment plan. My career as a social worker is a literal fulfillment of a lifelong ambition, and I cannot imagine working in any other profession.” 

Follow Kat on Instagram and TikTok.  


Kaylynn F.

"It's those specific moments when you've been working with someone and you have a breakthrough." Kaylynn F., MSW, school social worker, small business owner and mom

Kaylynn is a first gen graduate with an MSW from Fordham University, a mother, a school social worker, and a small business owner! ⁠ 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“Although most days can be hard and you might feel defeated, it’s those specific moments when you’ve been working with someone and you have a breakthrough, that feeling of accomplishment. Those are the moments that make me take a step back and think to myself “& that’s why I became a social worker!”” 

Follow Kaylynn on Instagram

Lauren Gutierrez 

"I wanted all kids to have access to mental health and support regardless of their background or income." Lauren Gutierrez, LCSW and OG social work vlogger, Social Work Scrapbook

Lauren Gutierrez, LCSW is an OG social work vlogger and YouTuber behind the account Social Work Scrapbook. When she’s not creating content and resources for the field, she is a Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Supervisor in Texas. You can check out her channel on YouTube for social work tips, Day in the Life videos, intervention ideas, and some lifestyle videos.  

What inspired you to get into the field of social work? 

“I have always wanted to work in schools because I wanted all kids to have access to mental health and support regardless of their background or income. I didn’t know such a career existed until college. I realize now that many future social workers may have no idea about my career and the daily happenings. I made it my mission to share my role: all the drop out prevention work, community resource connections, crisis interventions, home visits, mental health chats, and staff support I offer daily.” 

Subscribe to Lauren on YouTube and follow her Instagram


Lindsay B.

"Social Workers can pursue forensic work without a PhD!" Lindsay B., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, forensic social worker

Lindsay Bendell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who focuses on criminal defense. As a forensic social worker and mitigation specialist, Lindsay works as part of an interdisciplinary criminal defense team to help humanize criminal defendants before, during, and after their trial. ⁠Lindsay is creating an on-demand education program to teach fellow clinicians how to be involved in this type of work through her company, Mitigation Mentor.  

What do you want people to know about the work you do? 

Social Workers can pursue forensic work without a PhD! As a forensic social worker and mitigation specialist, I work as part of an interdisciplinary criminal defense team to help humanize criminal defendants before, during, and after their trial. I’m creating an on-demand education program to teach fellow clinicians how to be involved in this type of work through my company, Mitigation Mentor. 

Follow her on Instagram and check out her website


Manicka T.

"We can actually create and design the careers we want." Manicka T., LISW-S, Social Work Mentor and Trainer, owner of Kindred Connections Therapy

Manicka Thomas is an LISW-S, a Social Work Mentor and Trainer, a content creator, and owner of Kindred Connections Therapy. Manicka makes content aimed to help Social Workers design careers they love and teach what they know.  

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I always had a desire to help people improve the conditions in their lives. When I learned that there was actually a profession that helped people gain access to resources and worked to solve social problems. When I began to advocate for disadvantaged communities while fighting to improve social conditions, I knew I had made the right decision. Being a Social Worker sits at the heart of my value system as a person. I’ve always inherently believed in justice and fairness. Being a Social Worker was my way of being able to manifest those values.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“There is no box or limit to the work that you can do with a Social Work degree. In whatever way you have a desire to serve and help others improve their lives, there is a Social Work role for it. The beauty of where we sit now in 2023, is that we can actually create and design the careers we want, centered around who we want to help, the problem we want to solve, and the impact we want to make in the world.” 

Follow Manicka on Instagram, subscribe to her YouTube channel, and check out her website


Maria A.

"I've always been drawn to humanitarian causes." Maria A., LCSW

⁠Maria is an LCSW in Florida! She is also a RYT 200 hour yoga instructor, and an animal and nature lover.  

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I am a licensed clinical therapist providing individual outpatient psychotherapy for kids and teens. I love that I get to connect with my clients and help them begin to realize their own worth and value and support them along their journey.” 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I had always been drawn to humanitarian causes and ended up living and working in Haiti for five years. I got involved with supporting women coming out of abusive and exploitive situations, and that opened my eyes to wanting to be further educated in trauma-informed care. After some research I decided that social work was the best avenue for me, and I went back to school for my MSW.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“Not everyone is built for the world of social work, but those who are should know that burn out is very real, and finding a healthy work/life balance and setting boundaries for yourself is crucial for your longevity in the field.” 

Follow her on Instagram! 


Michaella C.

"I wanted to work with the whole family unit." Michaella C., Child Welfare Social Worker Supervisor (CWSW), Adjunct Professor, and author

Michaella is an MSW, a Child Welfare Social Work Supervisor (CWSW), and Adjunct Professor at Cal State East Bay, Department of Social Work. She is also the author of the book, “How to Survive as a Child Welfare Social Worker”, a guide on bridging the knowledge gained within the classroom with the realities of the work.  

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I wanted to work with the whole family unit. I also loved working with children and connecting them with resources that would be beneficial to their needs. I was going to go to school to become a school teacher, but later changed my mind when I realized that my work with the students were only limited in the classroom.” 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“My favorite part of being a child welfare social work is working with the children, parents, service providers and the community. I love when I work with a team of professionals to help the families needs met and see their growth.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“When child welfare social workers first come in contact with families their motive is not to remove children, but to work with the families to prevent a removal of the children. Child Welfare social workers explore many different ways to work with the family and also put resources in the home and connect them with services.” 

Follow Michaella on Instagram and check out her website! 


Michelle B.

"I've always had a natural desire to help others." Michelle B., founder of MSW Helper

Michelle Bruxer is the Founder of MSW Helper, where she helps Master of Social Work Applicants write top notch personal statements for grad school.  

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I’ve always had a natural desire to help others. For a long time, I thought I wanted to be a teacher, but when I started working as a camp counselor after high school, I realized I preferred working 1:1 with the kids who needed extra assistance rather than leading the entire group. Teaching probably wasn’t for me, and I realized that becoming a counsellor would be a better fit. I was also acutely aware of the way society puts some groups at a disadvantage. Ultimately, I decided to pursue social work because of my natural gifts helping people 1:1 and out of a desire to pursue social justice.” 

Follow Michelle on Instagram and TikTok, and check out her website


Morgan B.

"After graduating....my goal is to become a therapist." Morgan B., pursuing her MSW

Morgan is a social worker in the making, currently pursuing her MSW from the University of Kentucky!  

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to make a difference in peoples lives. With social work I knew I could do this in a supportive and caring way by building relationships, empowering others and advocating for social justice. My favorite part about being a social worker is learning about clients’ needs and helping them find positive ways to overcome challenges in their lives. As an intern at the Veterans Healthcare System, I am able to gain experience in a vast variety of programs including medical and mental health care settings by working with veterans to achieve their goals. After graduating with my masters in social work, my goal is to become a therapist and work alongside clients by proving them with the support and guidance they need to live meaningful, healthy lives!” 

Follow her on Instagram


Phadia N. Jean-Pierre

"Social work found me, and I answered the calling." Phadia N. Jean-Pierre, Trauma Therapist, CEO/Founder of Switch LLC, and more

Phadia is a Haitian-Creole-speaking Trauma Therapist with several years of experience in social services. Phadia graduated from Adelphi University with a Master’s degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State University. Phadia received an academic appointment at Yale University School of Medicine. Phadia is also the CEO and founder of Switch LLC, mental health advocate, international guest speaker, a breathwork facilitator, and Co-Host of Millennial Babes Podcast. 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“Social work found me, and I answered my calling. As the CEO of Switch, LLC, trauma informed social worker, and holistic healer, I recognize that Black millennial women in particular  black women struggle with anxiety, depression and traumas. I am passionate about promoting wellness through a cultural lens to help black women and young girls achieve wellness, envision, and teach practical tools to address emotional wounds and Traumas, find clarity, and empower them to show up as their authentic self. “ 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I get to be part of an amazing social work community.  During the pandemic I was able to expand beyond just being a social worker. Once I learned that I can expand and be more creative in the field, my passion expanded. I am enjoying different public speaking engagements, collaborating with other social workers and mental health counselors. I am having fun curating wellness events promoting self-care.  Most importantly, I am traveling to Haiti to train lay workers in mental health while facilitating workshops for Haitian Youth. I love to travel, so that was a bonus for me. I facilitate psychotherapy groups, community wellness events, and outreach programs for dozens of community members. I facilitate trainings at Global Trauma Research, Incorporated. I also teach and mentor social work and mental health counselor interns. I facilitate breathwork workshops to reduce stress and create feelings of openness. I hold spaces for black women to improve their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, and to have a better understand and connect with themselves.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“I aspired to do pivotal and progressive work within my community. I embody a holistic approach when working with my participants, and the community. Being a social work scholar and leader helped me recognize the importance of holding space for others to heal their trauma, increase their wellness, and well-being while dealing with their fragmented wounds to prevent distress.” 

Follow Phadia on Instagram and check out her podcast, Millennial Babes


Practically Social Work Podcast: Ava A., Tessah S., and Brianne A.

Practically Social Work Podcast whose mission is to bring students and professionals together to talk about all things social work - Ava A., Tessah S., and Brianne A.

Meet Ava, Tessah, and Brianne — the ladies behind the mic for Practically Social Work podcast! Practically Social Work was started with the mission to bring students and professionals together to talk about all things social work, school and experience in the field.⁠ 

⁠Ava, Tessah, and Brianne are all social workers in the making at SUNY Plattsburgh and Buffalo State University.⁠ 

Tessah has an Associates as a Paralegal, a Bachelors in Human Development and minor in Psychology and is now pursuing her MSW. With over a decade of experience in human services, she has experience in At-Risk Youth Advocacy within the schools, Mental Health/Substance Abuse Residential Treatment Counseling, Child Protective/Preventative Services, and work as a Psychological Assistant.⁠ 

Brianne earned her Associates in Human Services at her local community college before transferring to Plattsburgh to complete her BSW, which she is working to complete now with intent to pursue her MSW after. Brianne is currently working for a local domestic violence program and running the safe house as well as working as a nursing assistant for veterans. 

Ava has an Associates Degree in Human Services from Suffolk Community College. She worked with the Developmentally and Intellectually Disabled (DD/ID) population for the last twelve years not only teaching life skills, independence and self advocacy, but also teaching art, music, and performance. Ava has a passion for social justice because she’s seen and experienced so many injustices in and out of the DD/ID population.

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

Tessah: “There is so much! Really, it’s the clients and community that really inspire me. Seeing the positive change people and communities make to feel empowered with just a little help is truly the most amazing part of this work.”  

Brianne: “I was inspired by my daughter. I was going through a divorce and I started doing research on helping kids, what to do, what to say. I was so interested that I decided to look into it as a career. Being able to support my daughter while helping other kids was an added bonus.” 

Ava: “I was inspired by the lack of services and funds across the board, and I wanted to be part of the change to improve our legislation and policies. ” 

Follow them on Instagram and listen to their podcast on YouTube


Rebecca O.

"It is an honor to accompany people on their journey." Rebecca O., Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Grounded Counseling, PLLC

Rebecca is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and the owner of her own practice, Grounded Counseling, PLLC.  

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I am a clinical therapist in solo private practice. My favorite part of being a social worker… it is hard to choose just one! Some of the most satisfying moments in therapy happen when people understand their experiences and realize that THEY MAKE SENSE! That said, I also work with a lot of people who already understand themselves intimately but struggle to use that knowledge in a meaningful way. I really enjoy helping them FEEL and make changes in their life. In either and any case, it is an honor to accompany people on their journey and bear witness to healing as it occurs.” 

Follow her on Instagram


Resia C.

"Your skillsets and educational foundation will be an asset." Resia C., MSW, content creator, higher education student coach, and Engagement Coordinator for NASW-NJ and NASW-DE

Resia Cooper is an MSW, a YouTube content creator, a higher education student coach, and an Engagement Coordinator for NASW-NJ and NASW-DE. ⁠Through her channels, her goal is to empower future social work students to make informed decisions about their education, internship, and transition journey.  

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“What I love most about being a social worker is the flexibility of this profession. I can utilize the skills I acquired from my MSW program in almost every space and job setting. As an engagement coordinator for the NASW NJ & DE chapters, I use my interviewing and active listening skills to connect and engage with various stakeholders. I always joke and say when I get a chance to talk with a member, I use my CBT skills to help them navigate the challenges they may be facing. So whether you aspire to work in micro, mezzo, or macro social work, your skillsets and educational foundation will be an asset.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“I work for the NASW NJ & DE chapter as an engagement coordinator. There is a lot of buzz on how my job aligns with the profession. As an engagement coordinator, I work to build relationships between our chapter and our members, mainly our student and transitional members. I do things such as creating content, managing shared interest groups, delivering events and workshops, conducting market research, and connecting with social work thought leaders. Ultimately, my main goal is to ensure that our members find value in their membership in the social work professional association.” 

Follow Resia on Instagram and TikTok, and subscribe to her YouTube channel


Sam M.

"I knew immediately I wanted to work in the field of mental health." Sam M., pursuing his MSW

Sam Mandara is a social worker in the making, pursuing his MSW at Rutgers University, following his BS in psychology from Montclair State University.⁠ Currently, he is a daycare teacher’s aide, and an academic mentor for learners K-6. In his free time, he also volunteers with mental health chatlines and is in training to become a crisis responder for folks who identify as LGBT. ⁠ 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2022 and knew immediately I wanted to work in the field of mental health. In the last three years, all my experience has been working with children and families. I have been working in daycare centers as a teacher’s aid to help foster social-emotional development and to assist with behavioral issues. I also have experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as an ABA therapist and social skills facilitator in an effort to support learners with an Autism diagnosis.  

Currently, I still work as a teacher’s aide for a daycare classroom and as an academic mentor for learners K-6. I also volunteer with different chatlines and am in training to become a crisis responder for folks who identify as LGBT. This upcoming summer, I plan to pursue opportunities working with special needs individuals at a summer camp. I plan to continue expanding my horizons, taking on new roles and opportunities as I continue through my graduate degree, and keep making positive change in society.” 

Follow Sam on Instagram


Sojourner W.

"I love that people make us the underdogs and then shock them every single time with what we can do." Sojourner W., MSW grad and Director of Evaluation & Learning at UBUNTU Research & Evaluation

Sojourner White is an MSW graduate of the Brown School at Washington University; Director of Evaluation & Learning at UBUNTU Research & Evaluation.⁠ With over 15 countries under her belt and two degrees later, Sojourner is the blogger and YouTube content creator behind Sojournies, a travel and lifestyle brand that believes in a world where we do not compromise our comfort, livelihood, and flexibility for an office. Sojournies helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to bask in more freedom & flexibility outside the office. ⁠ 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“I did not think I was gonna be a social worker. It kind of happened by coincidence, but I wanted a flexible career path! After doing some research into social work I realized that it wasn’t all the stereotypes I saw in movies and you can do a lot with it. My MSW is technically in International Social Work so I was drawn to understanding social issues in the U.S and abroad to understand how they’re connected and impact each other.” 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“My favorite part of my job is when the lightbulb goes off for the social workers I coach because they have mastered or tried a new intervention and it works! I get energized by working with new social workers/new grads, who are eager and have fresh new ideas to bring to students and school communities. The impact that school social workers can make in the education system is so important and when school social workers are used properly, they make a huge difference in the lives of students, parents and educators alike.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“I want people to know that nontraditional, macro, remote social workers exist! I work remotely in research and evaluation consulting — it sounds not social worky but it is. I use a lot of my coursework (program eval, community-based participatory research, policy analysis, etc.) and the content knowledge from classes that aids my hard skills. I’ve consulted on projects from reproductive justice to entrepreneurship to youth violence prevention.” 

Follow Sojourner on Instagram and subscribe to her YouTube channel


Stacey

"I am seeking ways to be part of the conversation." Stacey, MSW student

Stacey is an MSW Student at @sacredheartuniversity and a second-generation Lao American. ⁠Currently, she’s in beginning stages of her social work journey and has interest in research, using data to educate and inform policy writers, and social justice work in federal policy. 

What inspired you to get into the field of social work?

“My community and my mom inspired me to study social work and social justice work. I am second generation Lao American growing up in a family dealing with the affects of war. Our American experience, like many refugee communities in the United States, was filled with challenges and trauma. From facing discrimination and oppression to fighting for access to basic health care, I was the advocate for my family. I became passionate about equal access to healthcare when my mother fell ill in 2021. It was then that I decided to train as a social worker.” 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I am interested in macro social work and the voices of social workers at the policy level. My interests are social work research, using data to educate and inform policy writers, and social justice work in federal policy.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“Although I am at the beginning stages of my social work journey, I am seeking ways to be part of the conversation. I attend lectures, listen to podcasts, join national organizations like NASW and CSWE, and keep up with the latest issues that affect social workers. I think we should not limit our exposure to the field even during the training stages. That’s how I found the Social Work Degrees Instagram page. I had researched social work communities so that I can be active in a space I will one day join as a social worker.” 

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Tashara

"Social workers are invaluable, yet severely unappreciated." Tashara R., LGSW, traveling social worker, and content creator

Tashara, LGSW is a traveling social worker and content creator with an MSW from University of Georgia! 

What’s your favorite part of being a social worker?

“I am currently a travel social worker, so I take travel contracts across the country in hospital settings. I’ve worked within so many different social work “niches”, however medical social work is absolutely my favorite. I am a person who loves problem solving, and that’s what medical social work is all about! The healthcare system is complex, to say the least. As a medical social worker you’re in a position to help patients navigate through the complexity and connect them with resources to get their medical and social needs met.” 

What do you want people to know about the work you do?

“Social workers are invaluable, yet severely unappreciated. We’re always the first called on in moments of need, but the last considered when it comes to being paid a living wage. Social workers deserve to be paid a living wage, and then some. And social workers, whether you’re new to the field or a veteran, I want you to know your worth. You deserve to work within your profession without having to struggle to make ends meet. Remember your worth! There are many opportunities out there that will give you what you deserve.” 

Follow her on Instagram and TikTok, and subscribe to her YouTube channel