Class Year: May 2025
Degree Program: MSW On-Campus
Concentration: School Social Work
Field Education Organization: Rise Together in Cleveland, Ohio
Hometown: Dayton, Ohio
Give a brief overview of your field education experience.
Rise Together Cleveland works to expand and strengthen the resources that are available to the international newcomer population in Cleveland. We build and maintain partnerships with community organizations in areas such as healthcare, workforce development, childcare services, legal services, public benefits and so much more. Not only do we partner with individuals and organizations that already work with this population, but we encourage others to welcome international newcomers with open arms as they have so much to offer. We host Newcomer Days, which highlight one newcomer population (Congolese, Arabic-speaking, Afghan, Ukranian, etc.) and invite them to engage with community partners. These days are a one-stop shop for individuals and families to get connected to resources on the spot, and they eliminate the barriers that exist when relying on communication via telephone.
What are you doing in field that you’re planning to bring with you into your career?
I am doing outreach to multiple stakeholders that might not typically be in an ecosystem to expand and strengthen the resources we recommend to clients. I am learning and growing in regard to cultural humility and understanding more of the communities that make up Cleveland. I am taking the role of a listener and a supporter as it is not always appropriate to desire to lead. I will continue to celebrate diversity in any environment I work in.
What is something you've learned during your practicum that you have found to be most helpful in your social work journey?
It never hurts to ask! So many people do not know because they do not ask. The worst thing someone can say is 'no.' However, a 'yes' can make some huge things happen.
Who is someone you've met during your field practicum that will change the way you practice?
Tanya Budler and Nancy Neuer (they are both rockstars).
Before beginning at ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, what were you doing?
Serving with AmeriCorps at an organization called City Year!
Why did you choose to study social work and/or nonprofit management?
My previous work experiences showed me the value in choosing to be in someone's corner, especially if they do not have many people there to begin with. I loved building relationships and learning how best to support the people I worked with, and I learned the value of meeting people where they are and working with them to decide where they want to go. I spoke with many people that were practicing social workers, and they explained that that is basically their job. Social work excites me because you can connect people with resources that they might not know exist.
Why did you choose ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø/the Mandel School?
When I visited ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, especially the Mandel School, I immediately felt welcomed and valued. I went to a large university for undergrad and felt like I missed out on the chance to get to know my professors, the staff of the school and more of my peers. When I visited ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, I felt comforted hearing about how many levels of support I could receive and was so impressed with the kindness that people showed me.
What is your favorite thing about ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø/the Mandel School?
The friends that I have made and the countless number of opportunities that are available to get involved in. As for ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, the squirrels on campus are so cute and are more orange than the ones I am used to!
What has been your favorite class at the Mandel School so far? Why has it stood out to you?
I really loved two courses that I took my first semester: SASS 509 (Group Theory and Practice) and SASS 507 (Community Theory and Practice).
In Group Theory and Practice, Professor Rhoades created such a safe space for us as students and he was so authentic in his teaching approach. He made group work feel much more comfortable for many of us because he focused on building group rapport.
Community Theory and Practice was another favorite because Professor D'Orazio was the best and approached the course with kindness and curiosity. She made me, and I am sure many others, feel comfortable in sharing my thoughts and made a genuine effort to get to know everyone. I was never interested in community practice, but she shared personal experiences that were so valuable.
Describe any extracurricular activities you're involved with on- or off-campus, or any interests, activities or passions.
- I teach yoga at One to One Fitness (everyone should come try a class!).
- I am a Student Ambassador for the school.
- I love exploring all of Cleveland's little areas, especially coffee shops, food/pastry places, walking areas and cute little shops.
- I am super passionate about self-preservation and the activities listed above help me in doing that for myself. :)
What is your favorite thing about Cleveland/University Circle?
The kindness! Most of the places I have been to and people I have met in Cleveland have been so welcoming and friendly. I love how many people want to stop and speak with you.
What do you hope to do with your degree?
I hope to continue working in a school setting as a school social worker.
Do you have any plans for after graduation yet?
I would love to take a long trip! Not sure where yet, so I am open to suggestions.
What are you most looking forward to post-graduation?
I am so excited to practice as a social worker and to see what I can do in the field. I am super excited to find a position that I am passionate about and to meet and work with other impassioned individuals in various fields. I also can't have a dog currently because of limited time, but that will for sure be one of my first big-girl purchases.
What's something you'd share with an incoming student who is starting (a graduate or professional program) at ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø?
Lean all the way in and take advantage of the opportunities that are available. Also, ask questions! No one will get annoyed, and if they do, they technically can't tell you that. Lastly, it does go by super quick and when people tell you that you won't fail, believe them. :)
Fun fact
Ellie is a part of the Mandel School's Leadership Fellows Program 2024 cohort, who gave their capstone presentations on April 22. Her presentation was titled, "The Role of School Social Workers in Optimizing Full-Service Community Schools."