Thirty-two social work majors at Eastern Connecticut State University conducted a series of interactive presentations for local high school and community college students this fall semester. Titled “Professional Advocacy Networking,” the eight talks introduced curious mental health professionals to the field of social work and its many values and opportunities.

The events were arranged by Professor Eunice Matthews-Armstead, coordinator of the social work program. The Eastern students who presented are enrolled in social welfare policy courses taught by professors Megan Stanton and Paul Trubey.

During the tour, Eastern students spoke with 70 students at Glastonbury High School, Bolton High School and Connecticut River Academy, as well as 45 students at CT State Community College Manchester and CT State Community College Three Rivers. All students had expressed interest in the advocacy profession through coursework in psychology or human services.

“With support, the Eastern students created dynamic and informative presentations tailored to youth, emphasizing the role, importance and impact of the social work profession,” said Keniesha Johnson-Krewalk, assistant director of field education and special programs for Eastern’s Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Criminology and Social Work.

The presentations had several goals related to building awareness and understanding — at the educational and public levels — of the social work field and its values. The events also featured networking between students and cleared misconceptions about the field.

Several students presented as a cohort at Three Rivers, introducing Eastern’s social work program and the field as a whole. Orion Levy addressed some common misjudgments about social work. “The myth I find most disheartening is that social workers take kids away from their parents,” said Levy.

“In reality, workers at DCF (the Department of Children and Families) make an effort to keep families together,” he continued. “If more people were familiar with how expansive the field of social work was, I don’t think they would believe this.”

Kaylee Buckland shared why she became interested in social work as a career during her teenage years. “I encountered various difficulties that took a significant toll on my mental health,” she said.

Buckland continued: “These experiences ignited a desire within me to support students facing similar struggles. I realized that I wanted to be a guiding presence for young people, helping them navigate their challenges and encouraging them to find their own paths.”