Pronouns: She/Her
Major: Social Work
Hometown: Springfield, Massachusetts
Student groups, clubs, organizations, jobs, internships, honors, or athletic affiliations: B.E.E.S. President, Resident Assistant, NASW-MA Chapter BSW Student Representative, North Shore Community Health Center Intern
What made you choose Salem State, and what is one thing a prospective student should know about our campus community?
What made me choose Salem State was the campus size, the diversity and the programs it offered. I wanted to go to a school where the campus was easy to navigate, and the class sizes were not too big. When I toured Salem State, I appreciated how close together the classroom buildings, the library and other important places were. I was also drawn to the many student organizations and clubs available. Being part of a campus community that looked like me and shared aspects of my culture mattered to me, but so did the opportunity to share space with people whose backgrounds were different from mine. One thing a prospective student should know is that there are many organizations and clubs to join. If there is not already something that speaks to your interests, you can even start that group yourself. And if you are a first-year student, use your resources, including offices like First Year Experience and TRIO.
Once you got to campus, what made you say, "This is the place for me?"
It took me a little while to have that "aha" moment. I realized Salem State was the place for me after meeting a wonderful group of women of color in my First-Year Seminar, Lifting Up Women of Color, with Professor Lisa Johnson in the social work department. In that class, I found passionate and impactful women who looked like me, and I felt so comfortable in that space. From there, I made it a point to find other places on campus where I felt safe and connected, including the Black Student Union and the Haitian Cultural Club. Once I found myself and my people, I knew this was where I wanted to stay. If it were not for the community I created on campus, I probably would have transferred.
What made you choose your major? What about your area of study ignites your passion?
I chose social work because the field's mission and goals align deeply with my own values. At its core, social work is about enhancing human well-being, meeting basic needs and empowering people who are vulnerable or oppressed. Service, social justice, dignity, the importance of human relationships, integrity and competence are all values that matter to me. I have always cared about mentoring and helping others in whatever ways I can, and advocacy has always been important to me, especially for people of color. Once I learned more about social work, the different levels of practice, the political influence of the profession and the many places social workers can serve, I felt drawn to it. That was when I made the switch to social work.
Do you live on campus or commute? If you live on campus, what have you enjoyed most about your experience? If you commute, how have you stayed engaged with the campus community?
I live on campus. What I have enjoyed most about that experience is the independence I have gained and the sense of community I feel every day.
How have you grown as a person during your college experience?
During my college years, I learned the importance of collaboration, community and using my voice to uplift others. Culturally, I was taught the importance of being a resilient and independent woman. However, I was not always reminded that it is okay to ask for help or lean on others. Before college, that mindset made me extremely independent. Through my involvement in organizations and leadership roles, I learned that meaningful change rarely happens alone. It happens when people support one another and work together toward a shared purpose. My involvement at Salem State not only helped me grow into a more confident leader and speaker but also reinforced my commitment to advocating for and empowering the communities I serve.
Can you describe a challenge that you overcame at Salem State?
One challenge I overcame at Salem State was navigating my first and second years while struggling academically due to my mental health, my personal life and the recent passing of my grandmother just two months into my first year of college. As someone who has always been independent and did not like asking for help, I often waited too long to reach out because I felt like I was expected to have everything under control, especially academically.
Could you discuss the relationships you've developed with faculty members and how these relationships have influenced your learning and personal growth?
I have built strong, trusting relationships with many faculty, staff and administrators through my work and involvement on campus. Through those connections, I have found not only support but meaningful mentorship that has guided me personally and professionally. These relationships sustained me throughout my college career, especially during difficult moments when I needed reassurance, direction or access to resources. Where there once was no one I could count on to uplift me, I now have a network of individuals who have consistently believed in me, affirmed my abilities and encouraged me to keep going. These mentors are people I know I can continue to reach out to long after graduation.
Can you describe the educational value and affordability you've experienced at Salem State University? How has the university supported your academic journey regarding quality and accessibility?
I feel that my education at Salem State has truly been worth it. Most of the professors I have had are passionate about what they teach and genuinely care about their students and what we bring into the classroom. This has been especially true within the social work department, where professors really push us to go out into the world, be the best social workers we can be and make a difference. In my classes, I have felt challenged in all the right ways and pushed to grow, think critically and prepare for my future. In terms of affordability, Salem State was the most realistic option for me among the schools to which I was accepted. What stood out even more was the level of support available. Whenever I faced financial challenges, there were always resources to help me stay on track. Through scholarships, grants and work-study opportunities, I was able to continue my education without having to step away. Overall, Salem State has supported my academic journey by offering both a strong education and the financial accessibility I needed.
Salem State emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Can you share any memorable experiences where you've applied classroom knowledge in real-world settings or through projects?
My most memorable learning experiences at Salem State have been the role-plays I have done in many of my social work practice classes. These role-plays allow BSW students to use clinical and interviewing skills in real-life scenarios with another student acting as the client. I have already applied those same skills during my internship with middle and high school students. I found myself using motivational interviewing often, especially with high school students, which made the connection between classroom learning and real-world practice feel immediate and meaningful.
What are your post-graduation plans, and how do you believe your time at Salem State has equipped you for success in pursuing these plans?
My time at Salem State has truly prepared me for what comes next. During my years here, I have gained the confidence to step outside my comfort zone, get involved in my community both on campus and at home and advocate for what I am looking for in my future career. I have learned how to speak up for myself, pursue opportunities that align with my goals and move through different spaces with a stronger sense of purpose. My department has played a huge role in that growth. The support, encouragement and guidance I have received have helped me feel more prepared and grounded as I think about life after graduation. Because of these experiences, I feel confident in my ability to enter the workforce and eventually pursue a graduate degree, whether that path brings me back to Salem State or takes me elsewhere.