Fund for Field Student Gratitude

I have wanted to be a social worker since I was 17 years old. I am now 23—one semester and one month away from earning my MSW. I have never changed my major; I have never even changed my mind. I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I this is the work I will pursue as long as I live.

Like any other social work student, I have worked tirelessly to sustain myself while navigating this career path. I have vacuumed classrooms, taught gymnastics, waited tables, and cleaned nursing homes— all while cramming for exams and maintaining a social life. But, it definitely takes a toll—especially when it comes time to complete a field placement. As an undergraduate intern, I only had to worry about the cost of living for one summer. As a graduate student, however, my internship spans an entire academic year. I work seven days a week to support myself—Monday through Thursday at my field site, and Friday through Sunday at a local restaurant.

The opportunity to receive the Fund for Field award allows me to take time off and simply breathe. I am incredibly grateful for each individual who contributed to this generous gift. Every dollar allows me to take one more step forward with ease rather than anxiety. Thank you for supporting me in my final leg of this strenuous journey. I will be thinking of each of you on graduation day.

I would like to thank the amazing donors who helped contribute to this award. This award will help me in more ways than you will ever know. I am grateful to know that there are people who are willing to help social work students on this journey, especially in times like this. Knowing that there are people who believe in me and want to help me succeed will help give me that push I need to cross the finish line. Once again thank you for your contribution and God bless!

Receiving this award helps serve as a reminder that things don’t come easy, but grit pushes me forward. I am extremely humbled for this award, as it helps cover my academic costs/expenses and allows me to enjoy my internship experience more fully. This award permits me to dedicate more of my time towards my professional development and family and for that I am forever grateful. Thank you.

I am beyond grateful to the donors and the School of Social Work for granting me the Fund for Field Award. This award means so much to me personally as it will go a long way in helping me cover all the high expenses associated with completing my internship in rural Oregon. This award also helps make it possible to continue working with this community post-graduation so that I can continue to make a difference for those experiencing substance abuse and mental health issues. I truly do not know where I would be today without the generosity of the School of Social Work and all the amazing people who make it what it is. Thank you!