This month’s spotlight features our top two graduating students, from our BA programs and MSW program. Congratulations to you both!
Student Name: Michelle Mullen
Major: Gerontology
Graduation Year:2016
What made you decide to enroll in the School of Social Work at SDSU?
When I learned about Gerontology as a major, I knew this was the perfect field for me since I love being around older people who have a lifetime of wisdom and experience. With the aging population growing, Gerontology is a growing field, and I was excited that SDSU offered this major.
What has been your most memorable experience in the School?
Working together with my Gerontology classmates on instituting a new student organization specifically geared toward older, non-traditional students networking on campus was the most challenging, memorable experience.
What are your plans after graduation?
I look forward to working towards a world where all ages enjoy mutual respect, appreciation, and are completely integrated within our society.
What are some of your favorite aspects of the program?
I enjoyed creating innovative services and programs for older adults. I was fascinated learning more about the pervasive aging stereotypes that occur in all forms of media and how we can combat these negative images and ideas.
Describe why you would recommend SDSU to potential students.
The Gerontology professors are passionate about their subjects, care about their students, and are always accessible.
Student Name: Jamie Jobe
Major:Social Work/Public Health
Graduation Year:2016
What made you decide to enroll in the School of Social Work at SDSU?
I sought a school that understood the value of combining the public health and social work perspectives into one program. It is important for me to work toward social justice on both an individual and community wide level. SDSU has set me on a path where I can integrate policy, community development, and research into tangible change.
What have been your most memorable experience in the School?
Without a doubt, my most memorable experience has been writing a thesis. At first it seemed overwhelming and insurmountable, but armed with a great chair and mentor, Dr. Reed, I felt inspired and empowered to not only try to publish my thesis, but to pursue research as a potential career path.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be working as a Research Associate for Education Development Center, Inc. located in Boston, MA. My main focus will be working on a SAMHSA funded program to develop a toolkit for mental health care providers (social workers included!) to address the complexities surrounding aging with HIV and mental health.
What are some of your favorite aspects of the program?
Internships! I was very lucky to have had two incredible internship experiences that set me on my career path. I was able to work in two completely different HIV-care settings and was blessed with amazing field instructors who challenged me and provided me a wealth of experiences in direct practice, administration, and leadership.
Describe why you would recommend SDSU to potential students.
Beyond the wonderful classes, SDSU provides its students with an abundance of learning and professional development opportunities. Students benefit from faculty with profound knowledge and expertise in the field as well as their fellow students that bring with them diverse backgrounds and experiences.
