Name: Carson Edelman
Major: Social Work, with Counseling and Social Change Minor
Student Organization Affiliation: VP Counseling and Social Change Club
Graduation Year: 2017
What made you decide to enroll in the School of Social Work at SDSU?
I really wanted to help others. So, after debating between being an educator and a police officer, I chose social worker. I really do have a passion to bring out the best in others despite what they are struggling with.
What have been your most memorable experience in the School?
It is hard to choose just one. I would say that my most memorable has been my experience with a certain professor/advisor. I came to her very scared to open up about who I was; I thought that would affect my abilities as a social worker. She quickly assured me that I was in a safe place and that as transgender, bisexual man with abuse in my past, I would make it in this profession and be stronger for it. She assured me she would be there every step of the way.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on obtaining my MSW with a clinical focus. I dream of becoming an LCSW practicing therapy for children and adolescents as well as treating children and adolescent inpatients in a mental health setting. I also plan to, in my “spare time,” get a specialty in LGBTQIA rights and work as an advocate for the community.
What are some of your favorite aspects of the program?
The professors really make all of the difference. Each is culturally competent and really has a passion for social work. I also enjoy the focus on the person-in-environment. I believe it takes a lot of blame away from the victim/survivor.
Describe why you would recommend SDSU to potential students.
SDSU, besides having an amazing basketball team, is a wonderful place to learn. The professors care about you and your education. It is a warm environment that opens its arms to people like me who come from a diverse background.
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