Hometown: Fort Lawn, South Carolina
How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina changed my life by allowing me to have the resources that I needed to pursue my lifelong dream. As a first-generation college student, USC allowed me to apply for scholarships and gave support to students like me who did not have anyone to ask about college subjects. USC showed me that I have a passion for mental health and the adolescent population, who have a difficult time accessing mental health support. I originally wanted to pursue working in psychiatry but being a student at the College of Social Work, I have learned that I have a passion for social work and have a newfound love of policy and advocating for people who do not have a voice.
A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories of my time at USC was when I had the opportunity to write an opinion editorial about adolescent mental health in the state of South Carolina. I wrote about how important the mental health of our adolescents can be to the future of our state. This kickstarted my love for advocacy and my passion to work with adolescents in the field of behavioral health.
Advice for incoming students: Enjoy the journey of being in college. There are times when things in life can be difficult, but there are always people who are open and willing to help you. Try every opportunity that crosses your path, as any one of them could open the door to what you spend the rest of your life doing. You are in college for a short time but the knowledge you gain along the way will last you a lifetime.
What I’ve learned about myself: I can do anything I put my mind to. This journey has been a long and difficult road, but by remaining determined and having an amazing support system I can do absolutely anything. I have learned that no matter what life throws at me, I am resilient, and USC has taught me everything I know in the classroom and how to handle everything else outside the classroom.
What helped me succeed: There are two professors that played a key role in my success at USC, these professors are Dr. Candice Morgan and Mike Ottone. Professor Ottone helped me every step of the way when I was learning about the licensure process and was there when I had considered many different possibilities of where I would end up after graduation and never gave up on me, even for a second. I have had Dr. Morgan as a professor for at least one class every semester during my time here. She has always been very supportive of me and never hesitated to check in with me if she thought something was on my mind. She was there for me in this program since day one and I am so thankful that she cares so much about me and her other students.
What’s next: After graduation, I hope to be a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and work in the field of behavioral health and work toward becoming a therapist. I hope to one day open my own private practice.