Class Year: May 2025
Degree Program: MSW Online
Concentration: Children, Youth and Families
Field Education Organization: Allwell Behavioral Health
Hometown: Zanesville, Ohio
Give a brief overview of your field education experience.
My field education experience has focused on working with youth and families in crisis through the Mobile Response Stabilization Service (MRSS) program. I have had the opportunity to intervene in high-stress situations, develop and implement solution-focused strategies, and become more comfortable in crisis settings. I have also worked on connecting families to resources, improving my documentation skills, and expanding my knowledge of community-based services across the six counties I serve.
What is something you've learned during your practicum that you have found to be most helpful in your social work journey?
In my field experience, I have developed skills that I plan to carry into my career, especially in crisis intervention, solution-focused approaches and connecting individuals to community resources. Working with the Mobile Response Stabilization Service (MRSS) program has strengthened my ability to remain calm under pressure, assess situations quickly, and develop actionable solutions for youth and families in crisis. I have also gained valuable experience in collaborating with other professionals and agencies, which will help me build strong networks in my future work. Additionally, I plan to continue improving my documentation and advocacy skills, ensuring that individuals receive the best possible support and access to necessary services.
Who is someone you've met during your field practicum that will change the way you practice?
Someone I’ve met during my field practicum who will change the way I practice is Ashlee Nicholson. Through my interactions with her, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of effective crisis intervention, resource navigation and client advocacy. Her approach to working with youth and families has shown me the importance of remaining client-centered while balancing structure and flexibility in high-pressure situations. Ashlee’s ability to navigate complex systems, build strong professional relationships, and provide support with both compassion and confidence has influenced the way I view my role as a social worker. Moving forward, I plan to integrate these skills into my practice, ensuring that I am both effective and empathetic in my interventions.
Before beginning at Case Western Reserve University, what were you doing?
Before beginning at Case Western Reserve University, I was working as a mental health therapist at a nonprofit, primarily serving youth and families in crisis. My work involved utilizing Structural Family Therapy (SFT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to support clients in navigating challenges. I was also actively involved in community outreach and resource connection, helping families access the services they needed. In addition to my professional role, I am a busy sports mom of a 13-year-old son.
Why did you choose to study social work and/or nonprofit management?
I chose to study social work and nonprofit management because of my passion for helping individuals and families navigate difficult life challenges. My own lived experiences, including witnessing family struggles, have fueled my commitment to supporting others in crisis and ensuring they have access to the resources they need.
Through my work in the nonprofit sector, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of systemic barriers on vulnerable populations, which has driven me to develop the skills necessary to advocate for change, provide meaningful interventions and connect individuals to supportive services. Studying social work allows me to deepen my understanding of evidence-based practices, while nonprofit management gives me the tools to create and sustain programs that make a real difference in the community. My goal is to combine both areas to effectively serve individuals and drive positive change within organizations and systems.
Why did you choose CWRU/the Mandel School?
I chose Case Western Reserve University’s Mandel School for my graduate studies because of its strong reputation for innovation in social work education, its commitment to community-based practice and the opportunities for hands-on learning through fieldwork. The Mandel School’s focus on evidence-based interventions, social justice and leadership in nonprofit management aligns perfectly with my professional goals.
I was particularly drawn to the program’s emphasis on integrating research with real-world practice, which allows me to strengthen my clinical skills while also gaining expertise in organizational leadership and advocacy. Additionally, the school’s connections with agencies and professionals in the field provide invaluable networking opportunities that will support my career development. Choosing CWRU means gaining the knowledge and skills to not only serve individuals effectively but also to contribute to larger systemic change within the field of social work.
What is your favorite thing about CWRU/the Mandel School?
My favorite thing about the Mandel School is the emphasis on integrating real-world experience with academic learning. The field education opportunities have allowed me to apply what I’m learning in the classroom to actual practice with youth and families in crisis, helping me develop confidence and competence as a social worker.
I also appreciate the supportive faculty and professional network that the Mandel School provides. The professors and mentors are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in student success, offering guidance that is both practical and insightful. The collaborative learning environment encourages meaningful discussions and connections with peers who share the same passion for making a difference.
Overall, the combination of high-quality education, hands-on learning and a strong professional community makes the Mandel School an ideal place for me to grow and develop as a social worker and future leader in the field.
What has been your favorite class at the Mandel School so far? Why has it stood out to you?
My favorite class at the Mandel School so far has been Social Work in Child Abuse and Family Violence. This course has stood out to me because it provides a deep and comprehensive understanding of the complexities of abuse, neglect and family violence, as well as the role social workers play in intervention and prevention.
What I appreciate most is how the class combines theory, policy and real-world application, allowing me to critically analyze systemic factors that contribute to family violence while also developing practical skills for assessing risk, supporting survivors and working with families in crisis. The discussions have been particularly impactful, as they challenge me to think beyond just immediate interventions and consider long-term solutions that promote safety, healing and resilience.
This course has reinforced my passion for working with youth and families in crisis and has given me valuable insights that I can apply in my fieldwork, particularly in crisis response and resource connection for families experiencing trauma.
Describe any job, internship, volunteer, research or study abroad experiences you've had during your time at CWRU, plus any extracurricular activities you're involved with on- or off-campus, or any interests, activities or passions.
During my time at Case Western Reserve University, I have been actively engaged in a field internship focused on working with youth and families in crisis through the Mobile Response Stabilization Service (MRSS) program. This experience has allowed me to intervene in high-stress situations, develop solution-focused strategies and connect families to critical resources across multiple counties.
Through this internship, I’ve gained hands-on experience in crisis intervention, assessment and stabilization planning, while also strengthening my skills in documentation and advocacy. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with other professionals, including mental health providers, school staff and community organizations, to ensure families receive comprehensive support.
This experience has been invaluable in shaping my growth as a social worker, reinforcing my ability to remain calm under pressure, build rapport with clients and navigate complex systems to provide effective interventions. It has also deepened my understanding of trauma-informed care and the importance of community collaboration in supporting vulnerable populations.
What is your favorite thing about Cleveland/University Circle?
My favorite thing about Cleveland and University Circle is the strong sense of community and the wealth of cultural and professional opportunities. University Circle, in particular, is an incredible hub for learning, networking and personal growth, surrounded by world-class institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Orchestra and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.
I also appreciate the diverse and vibrant social work and nonprofit network in the city. Cleveland has a deep commitment to social justice and community engagement, making it an ideal place to learn, train and make an impact. Whether it’s through my fieldwork, community events or connecting with professionals in the area, I feel like Cleveland provides endless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Plus, the food scene and lakefront views aren’t bad either!
What do you hope to do with your degree?
With my degree, I hope to continue working with youth and families in crisis, focusing on mental health intervention, advocacy and resource connection. My goal is to use my clinical skills to provide trauma-informed care while also leveraging my knowledge of nonprofit management to develop and improve services that support vulnerable populations.
I see myself working in crisis response, community mental health or a nonprofit setting, where I can help bridge gaps in services and ensure that families receive the support they need. I’m also passionate about systemic change and program development, so I hope to contribute to shaping policies and initiatives that improve access to mental health care and crisis intervention services.
Ultimately, I want to make a meaningful impact by combining direct service with advocacy and program leadership, ensuring that the individuals and families I work with receive both immediate support and long-term solutions for stability and well-being.
Do you have any plans for after graduation yet?
After graduation, I plan to continue working with youth and families in crisis, building on my experience in mental health intervention, crisis response and resource connection. I hope to secure a role in community mental health, crisis services or a nonprofit setting, where I can apply my skills in trauma-informed care and solution-focused interventions.
I’m also interested in opportunities that allow me to blend direct practice with program development and advocacy, ensuring that families not only receive immediate support but also have access to sustainable, long-term resources. Additionally, I plan to continue expanding my professional network and growing as a leader in the field, potentially pursuing further certifications or training to enhance my ability to serve at-risk populations effectively.
While I’m keeping my options open, my ultimate goal is to make a lasting impact in the lives of those facing crises and contribute to improving systems that support mental health and social services. I will continue to attend all sports events for my son as well.
What are you most looking forward to post-graduation?
Post-graduation, I’m most looking forward to applying everything I’ve learned in a professional setting and making a tangible impact in the lives of youth and families in crisis. I’m excited to step into a role where I can use my skills in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care and advocacy to help individuals navigate difficult situations and connect them with the resources they need.
I’m also looking forward to gaining more independence and confidence in my practice, continuing to grow as a professional and building strong relationships within the field. Additionally, I’m eager to explore leadership opportunities—whether in program development, community outreach or policy work—to contribute to systemic improvements in mental health and social services.
On a personal level, I’m excited for the next chapter of my career, where I can find stability, deepen my expertise and continue making a difference in meaningful ways.
What's something you'd share with an incoming student who is starting (a graduate or professional program) at CWRU?
I would tell an incoming student at CWRU to embrace every opportunity for hands-on learning and professional growth. The Mandel School provides incredible field placements, networking opportunities and supportive faculty—take full advantage of them!
Graduate school can feel overwhelming at times, but lean on your peers and mentors; the connections you build here will be invaluable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek feedback and challenge yourself—this is the time to refine your skills and find your professional identity.
Also, take care of yourself! Balancing coursework, internships and personal life can be tough, so prioritize self-care and set boundaries when needed.
Finally, remember why you started this journey—you’re here to make an impact, and CWRU will give you the tools to do just that.