Beatrice René

Why FSU?

FSU College of Social Work presented itself as a person-centered department that understood the importance of systems across all avenues of social work, not limited to child welfare or general social work practice.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

Having earned my Bachelor's in Criminal Justice, I realized towards the end of my degree that I did not share the same values that many justice agencies upheld when serving individuals. I wanted to enforce change and consider the whole person when interacting with future clients, which is what brought me to social work.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work, with the hope of combining my criminal justice background with the humanistic values of social work to provide holistic and effective services to justice-impacted individuals. Per program requirements, I am to complete two field placements with local Tallahassee agencies. I am currently doing my first field placement at the Innocence Project of Florida, and I have enjoyed learning about the various aspects of working in an interdisciplinary team focused on helping others. As an aspiring social worker, being part of an organization that values ethical treatment in every interaction with clients has deepened my appreciation for client-centered practice and multidisciplinary teams that are able to work together on behalf of a client.

Career aspirations

Upon graduation, I aim to coordinate and facilitate a shift in criminal justice systems by promoting rehabilitative, alternative-to-incarceration, and community corrections programs, particularly for youthful offenders.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Choose your hard; graduate school is not easy, and when you mix that with your everyday life, it becomes difficult. However, you have to remind yourself that this is an investment in your future and the reward will outweigh the cost.

Accomplishments during graduate career

Representing the FSU College of Social Work abroad through the college's Alternative Spring Break in St. George's, Grenada, was the most memorable experience of my graduate studies. Having the opportunity to see the intersectionality of social issues through an international lens definitely widened my viewpoint on the importance of advocacy, commitment to service, and being a true community leader.

Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, City Year Fellowship, Victoria Warner Endowed Scholarship Fund, John and Meg Paschal International Social Work Scholarship

Organizations you are part of at FSU

FSU College of Social Work Student Ambassador and Phi Alpha Honor Society

Hobbies outside academics

Contribute and listen to my small but mighty vinyl collection