This tagline illustrates my passion for social work. The tagline of the Wounded Warrior Project is: The greatest casualty in life is being forgotten. I believe humans desire to be found, to belong, and to be valued and the world needs more seekers willing to learn, explore, and find those who are hidden. I became interested in social work because I want to find and fight for and with those who are hidden in our society.
I am currently working towards an advanced standing MSW/PhD at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. I completed my Masters degree in August 2018 and became licensed in April 2019. As an LMSW, I have the clinical skills to work directly within the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. With a PhD, I will have the power to teach the next generation of social workers and conduct research to disseminate my findings on a larger scale. Having this dual degree allows me to change the lives of individuals and their families, while also working to create change in program development and policy. My personal and professional goals are to: 1) practice servant leadership in a professional setting by serving first then leading so that those around me can be empowered through my service, 2) conduct cutting-edge research to develop new policies and programs that enhance the well-being of children and families, and 3) create accessible, inclusive, and evidence-based services unique to marginalized people groups. I hope to be engaged in both research and practice that will inform program development for at-risk youth, specifically those who have experienced trauma and are dually involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. As a clinical practitioner, I seek to find and create positive change in client’s lives through evidence-based practice and advocacy. As a teacher, I seek hidden students who have the ability to make transformative change in the social work community. As a researcher, I seek hidden solutions to pressing social problems such as trauma. As a person, I seek growth by pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, utilizing hidden talents, and finding joy in giving through the social work profession. Within this portfolio, you will find detailed information regarding my teaching and research philosophies as well as my CV. Please reach out if you have any questions - I'd love to connect! |
ABOUT ME |