Lindsay Ann Schlicker
- Current Graduate Program: Master of Social Work
- Program Schedule: Full-Time
- Delivery Method: Online
- Current Employer: The Relatives
- Position: Social Work Intern
- Anticipated Graduation: May 2028
- Undergraduate Institution: North Carolina Central University
- Undergraduate Degree: Psychology
- Favorite Place in Charlotte: Freedom Park
- Hometown: Lake Grove, NY
- Dream Job: Owner of a Holistic Wellness Center after becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker
What has been your driving force for enrolling in your degree program?
My motivation for entering social work stems from a deep commitment to supporting mental health, fostering resilience, and creating spaces where people feel genuinely seen and supported. I’ve witnessed how stress, burnout, and systemic barriers can quietly erode well-being, especially for those navigating transitions, academic pressure, or caregiving roles.
Social work resonates with me because it blends compassion with action. I believe that healing is relational and empowerment-based. Social work offers the opportunity to walk with people through challenging moments, help them build sustainable coping strategies, and advocate for environments that support long-term well-being.
My professional aspirations include becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and opening a center for holistic wellness, where my community members can come together and develop positive coping strategies to combat everyday stressors.
Can you briefly describe your research and its potential impact?
My focus is currently on graduate student mental health and the impacts on distance education students. The research will evaluate whether increasing access to mental health support, social connection, coping skills, and a sense of belonging can improve students’ psychological well-being and overall graduate experience.
How would you describe UNC Charlotte to prospective graduate students?
UNC Charlotte is essentially its own little city within a city, with everything you need: passport services, legal services, mail/packages, greenways/botanical gardens, hair salon, pharmacy, and more! Charlotte is connected to Uptown Charlotte via on campus light rail system that is free for enrolled students.
How has your involvement in these organizations enhanced your graduate experience?
I became a Graduate Life Ambassador through the Center for Graduate Life and Learning (CGLL). This experience led me to serve as the Secretary of Sustainability for the Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) for the 2025-2026 academic year. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills while reinforcing my passion for empowering others. They have taught me how to build partnerships, lead with empathy, and develop initiatives that respond to the evolving needs of graduate students.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to your program?
Remember your why. Graduate school can feel overwhelming due to coursework, internships, family responsibilities, and the need for self-care. It is easy to feel isolated and burned out. However, you don’t have to navigate grad school alone. Start expanding your network—connect with your cohort members, celebrate small victories, and learn to embrace the chaos. You got this!