Class Year: May 2026
Degree Program: MSW Weekend
Concentration: Children, Youth and Families
Field Education Organization: in Garfield Heights, Ohio
Hometown: West Farmington, Ohio
Give a brief overview of your field education experience.
I am a wellness intern supporting wellness initiatives and activities for scholars at Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH) throughout the summer. I am so happy to be a part of the BHGH organization! I am learning so much about supporting scholars throughout middle school, high school and beyond, not only academically, but physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I am overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude for the organization, the amazing team I get to be a part of, and the way they are impacting so many young lives right here in Cleveland, Ohio.
How did you find this opportunity?
I was connected to the CEO during a charity bike ride we hosted at my full time job, CycleBar Crocker Park.
What has been the best part so far?
Getting to know the team and the scholars, and getting to apply what I have been learning in school to practice.
What are you looking to get out of this experience?
More confidence to use the skills I am learning in my classes, meaningful relationships and growth for myself.
What's your best piece of advice for students who might be looking for a similar opportunity?
Create your own path with field placement if you want to! Don't feel like you're stuck to do something more "traditional" if that's not where your passions are.
How did ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ and the Mandel School prepare you for this opportunity?
They both supported my decision to choose my own field placement site.
What are you doing in field that you’re planning to bring with you into your career?
I know I will be able to apply so much of what I am learning to my future career, but especially what I am learning about supporting scholars from a mental health perspective, having hard conversations with them, and just forming really solid, safe, relationships with the students we work with.
What is something you've learned during your practicum that you have found to be most helpful in your social work journey?
Small acts of kindness and acknowledgment go a long way, especially with middle and high schoolers. Sometimes they just need to hear they are seen, valued and that they belong.
Who is someone you've met during your field practicum that will change the way you practice?
My supervisor, Danielle. She wears so many different hats daily and rocks every single one of them.
Before beginning at ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, what were you doing?
Accounting (public for awhile, and then corporate accounting)
Why did you choose to study social work and/or nonprofit management?
Accounting was very dry and draining. I wanted to pursue a career that not only was life-giving for me, but for the people in my community, too. Through my own life experiences and the people I have met that have helped me feel seen and valued, I decided I wanted to do that for others, too!
Why did you choose ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½/the Mandel School for your graduate study?
I was initially inspired to attend because my fiancé, Carlie, has been a student at the Mandel School for the past few years. Once I started inquiring about the program though, my experience was smooth and all of the staff I spoke with about my interest in pursuing an MSW were incredible! I looked at other schools, but I felt most at home here at ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½.
What is your favorite thing about ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½/the Mandel School?
That it's right here in Cleveland! The people are so supportive, and the professors truly care and want us to succeed.
What has been your favorite class at the Mandel School so far? Why has it stood out to you?
It's not an official course, but the Trauma and the Brain course that is a pre-req for the NMT courses. The book we read and the conversations we had sparked a lot of thoughts for me about what I want to do in the future.
Describe any extracurricular activities you're involved with on- or off-campus, or any interests, activities or passions.
I'm the Mandel Council Finance Director and a Spirit Committee member.
What is your favorite thing about Cleveland/University Circle?
There is always so much to do and something for everyone/every mood.
What do you hope to do with your degree?
I'm still figuring that out, but something right here in Cleveland!
What are you most looking forward to post-graduation?
Paving a path of my own, thinking outside the box while still applying what I've learned and what I will learn, collaborating, reaching people who need it, and just staying in Cleveland and putting roots down here.
What's something you'd share with an incoming student who is starting a graduate or professional program at ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½?
Don't be afraid to pave your own path when it comes to field placements. Stay open minded. Be as present as you can—this is all temporary! :)