Why FSU?

I opted to attend FSU to pursue a graduate degree because I wanted to participate in a university that would give me a more traditional college experience. I went to a tiny private college for undergrad, and it left something to be desired. I wanted a university with high academic prestige in Social Work and top-tier athletic programs. But the biggest reason I chose FSU was because it is a coming home moment for me. My journey into social work began while serving in Palm Beach County as an AmeriCorps member. Returning to Florida to get my Master of Social Work degree was a full-circle moment.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

What motivated me to pursue a graduate degree in social work was my Peace Corps experience. Before being part of the first-ever mandatory global evacuation of Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs), I was out to dinner with an excellent friend in Labasa, Fiji. They had their BSW and told me I would be an extraordinary social worker. Ever since that night, I have researched the field of social work and found my calling. The more I studied the social work field, the more my gut screamed this was my future.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

Social work is more important than ever before. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a bright spotlight on all the systemic disparities across the United States. Mental health care services are in higher demand than ever before. More conversations are happening about the gaps in our social systems. As a male entering a female-dominated field, I hope to change the narrative that men asking for mental health care is not a weakness. It is a strength.

Career aspirations

I aspire to work with US military veterans and their families and provide Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) services. I also intend to create a business to address the lack of mental health care in rural areas across the United States. And I plan to pay it forward by mentoring the next generation of social workers in the twilight years of my career.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

My advice for anyone considering graduate school is to weigh your options. Spend some time reflecting on what you want your experience to be and where. Graduate school is a tool to get you to where you want to be, but it's up to you to be proactive in getting what you desire out of the experience. If you continue to think about graduate school, take the plunge, and invest in yourself. You'll grow in ways you never thought possible. Life is too short to be miserable.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I have received the AmeriCorps Segal Education Award, but I am also proud to have maintained my GPA above 3.5 in my MSW program while working full-time, volunteering, and preparing for my writing project with one of my College of Social Work professors.