March is National Social Work Month

National School Social Work Week is marked every first full week of March to celebrate school social workers across the nation and appreciate their work in helping students achieve academic success. The entire month of March is also National Social Work Month and we will be celebrating some of our SW graduates!

Jessica Collier

Degree: BSW 2021 (MSW, April 2022)

Job title: School based counselor/social worker

Place of work: Shawnee Family Health Care/Green Local Schools

What made you decide you wanted a career in social work? I always knew I wanted to be in a helping profession with kids being my primary focus. I was torn between a degree in counseling/psychology and social work. I chose social work due to the degree versatility and licensure.

Why did you choose Ohio University Southern to pursue your degree? I love OHIO Southern. I chose Southern due to the location, flexibility and at-home atmosphere.

How did OHIO Southern prepare you for your career? The professors at OUS teach a broad aspect of information preparing you for the “real world.”

What do you enjoy most about your job? I love the one-on one-therapy and general assistance working with children and adolescents. The ability to assist with daily needs, school transitions and overall mental and behavioral health.

What advice would you give to students pursuing their degree in social work? Set schedules, break larger assignments into manageable subtasks, make friends and create message groups. College friends can be a great asset for course assistance, reminders, study help and encouragement. You got this! I promise it will be worth it!