Class Year: May 2025
Degree Program: MSW On-Campus
Concentration: Health
Field Education Organizations: VA Medical Center & Murtis Taylor Human Services System | Cleveland, Ohio
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Give a brief overview of your field education experience.
Through my transformative journey at Case Western Reserve University's Master of Social Work program, I've had the privilege of serving diverse communities through meaningful field placements. Currently, I'm immersed in clinical social work training at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, where I have the honor of supporting our veterans through comprehensive psychosocial assessments, therapeutic interventions, and coordinated care planning.
My previous placement at Murtis Taylor Human Services System allowed me to dive deep into community development and wellness, where I witnessed firsthand the power of connecting individuals with vital resources and providing support during their times of need.
These experiences, combined with my earlier health education practicum, have not only shaped my professional identity but have also reinforced my commitment to creating positive change in people's lives. Each interaction, whether with a veteran navigating complex healthcare systems or a family seeking support services, has taught me that compassion, combined with clinical expertise, can truly make a difference in our communities.
What are you doing in field that you’re planning to bring with you into your career?
In my field placement at the VA Medical Center, I'm developing crucial skills in trauma-informed care and comprehensive psychosocial assessments that I'll carry into my career. Working with veterans has taught me the importance of understanding each client's unique experiences and how to effectively coordinate care within interdisciplinary teams. I've gained valuable experience in crisis intervention and resource navigation, but most importantly, I've learned how to build authentic therapeutic relationships while maintaining professional boundaries. These skills in combining clinical expertise with genuine empathy will be fundamental to my future practice as I work to support and empower clients in their journey toward positive change.
What is something you've learned during your practicum that you have found to be most helpful in your social work journey?
During my practicum at the VA, I've learned that building genuine therapeutic relationships is truly the foundation of effective social work practice. While clinical skills and resource knowledge are important, it's the ability to create a safe, trusting space where clients feel heard and respected that makes the real difference. I've discovered that taking time to truly understand a client's story—not just their immediate needs but their whole journey—leads to more effective interventions and better outcomes. This insight has been valuable when working with veterans, who often come with complex histories and needs. Learning to balance professional boundaries with authentic empathy has transformed how I approach client interactions and has become the cornerstone of my developing practice.
Why did you choose CWRU/the Mandel School?
I chose the Mandel School at CWRU because of its outstanding reputation in social work education and its perfect alignment with my professional goals. As someone who transitioned from health education in Nigeria to social work in the United States, I was drawn to the school's strong emphasis on both clinical excellence and community engagement. The opportunity to learn at prestigious healthcare institutions like the VA Medical Center, combined with CWRU's diverse and inclusive environment, made it the ideal place for me to grow both professionally and personally. Cleveland's rich cultural diversity also provides the perfect setting for putting social work theory into practice.
What is your favorite thing about CWRU/the Mandel School?
My favorite thing about the Mandel School is the supportive community I've found here. From dedicated professors like Dr. Adrianne Fletcher who challenge and inspire me, to my diverse classmates who bring unique perspectives to our discussions, I've discovered an environment that truly nurtures growth. I appreciate how the school combines rigorous academic training with real-world experience through our field placements. The collaborative atmosphere at the school doesn't just teach us social work principles—it shows us how to put them into practice while supporting each other along the way. This sense of community and shared purpose makes learning here not just educational, but truly transformative.
What is your favorite thing about Cleveland/University Circle?
As someone coming from Lagos, Nigeria, I've fallen in love with University Circle's vibrant cultural scene and welcoming community. I enjoy taking walks through Wade Oval, where I can visit the Cleveland Museum of Art between classes or catch outdoor concerts during summer evenings. The blend of historic architecture and modern innovation throughout the area perfectly mirrors CWRU's own character. What makes it even more special is how accessible everything is—from Little Italy's cozy restaurants to the world-class healthcare institutions where we do our field work, everything I need is within walking distance. Cleveland's changing seasons have also been a delightful new experience for me, especially watching University Circle transform from vibrant fall colors to snowy winter landscapes. The area truly feels like a small city within a city, offering the perfect environment for both professional growth and personal discovery.
What's something you'd share with an incoming student who is starting (a graduate or professional program) at CWRU?
I'd tell incoming students to embrace both the challenges and opportunities that CWRU offers. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—whether that's speaking up in class discussions, seeking help from professors or exploring Cleveland. Something I've learned is that the faculty here, especially at the Mandel School, genuinely want to see you succeed. Take advantage of their office hours and mentorship—they have so much wisdom to share. Also, make connections with your classmates. They'll become not just your study partners but your support system throughout the program. And remember, while the coursework can be demanding, Cleveland offers plenty of ways to decompress—from museums to parks to diverse food scenes. Balance is key to making the most of your graduate experience here.