What is your area of study and the year you expect to graduate?
I will be continuing my social work studies as a Master of Social Work (MSW) student. Thankfully I got accepted into the advanced standing program which will allow me to complete my master's degree in the Spring of 2023.
Why did you choose UNC Charlotte for graduate school?
I chose to stay at UNC Charlotte because of its diversity, the involvement the faculty and staff have with their students, specifically the Latinx faculty and staff. I also decided to stay because UNC Charlotte has so many organizations for students. As a Latinx student being in a PWI, it can be intimidating and anxiety provoking not knowing if you’ll be able to make friends but here at Charlotte all orgs welcome you with open arms.
What was the transition like from undergraduate to graduate school? How did UNC Charlotte make that transition smooth?
I haven’t completely started graduate-level courses but the transition of applying for classes and applying for my upcoming internship was so smooth. Anytime I had a question about my social work field placement Professor Ferrante immediately answered my questions.
If you are part of a graduate cohort community, describe your experience.
I am not part of a graduate cohort community yet. I was a part of many undergraduate communities. Such as the Latinx student union, Latin American student organization, Hispanic college awareness program, and Latin American honors society. These orgs definitely helped me shape myself into the student I am today. They gave me many networking opportunities and allowed me to develop my social skills.
How does a Charlotte graduate degree prepare you for your future?
I feel that the university will prepare me for many macro and mezzo-level social work even more. I think the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program did great with introducing me to these levels of social work and did spectacularly in teaching me skills that are perfect for micro-level social work. It will also allow me to look into research and prepare myself to get my license in social work.
What is your favorite thing about UNC Charlotte's location?
Its atmosphere and welcoming environment. I think the school is huge and a person can adapt to each corner of the school. If you like to work out we have UREC, if you like to have quiet times we have Atkins Library, if you want to talk with friends we have the Union, Cone and so many other places on campus.
What's your favorite graduate school memory so far?
Being accepted into the program. I was getting very anxious about the decision because I heard my cohort adding things to their essays and I was selling myself short. After a few days, I realized my work will never compare to my classmates' because each one of us is different and has been involved in different ways.