November 7, 2023
Nov. 8 is the National First-Generation College Celebration. The School of Social Work proudly supports our first-generation students such as Nora Hull interviewed here. Upcoming UW FirstGen activities across the UW’s three campuses include pop-up events, guest speakers, and a fire-chat with UW FirstGen alumni. See the full list of UW activities here:
Interview with UW School of Social Work BASW student Nora Hull
Why did you decide to major in social welfare at the UW School of Social Work?
One thing I love about being a social-welfare major is that there are so many possibilities career wise within the field. As a student, you are able to explore your options and finetune what your passions are. The comprehensive nature of the curriculum and the hands-on learning opportunities that the BASW program offers have made me feel as though I will be prepared to step into a wide variety of settings in the social welfare realm after graduating.
What experiences at UW have been the most influential to you?
My time as a social welfare student at UW has made an incredible impact on me so far. In the BASW program I am a part of a close-knit community made up of classmates, professors and advisors. Their insight, support and wisdom has empowered me to push the limits of my comfort zone and prompted my growth on both on a personal and professional level.
In what ways did you feel supported during your time at UW as a first-gen student? From whom did you receive support?
It can be overwhelming to begin a two-year program as a first-gen student. UW and the BASW program, in particular, have many resources geared toward navigating the complexities of college life. With support groups, seminars, and one-on-one advising and mentoring, I have been able to ask questions and receive the support I need so that learning can be my number one priority.
What made you decide to transfer to the UW and the BASW program?
I chose to transfer to UW because I wanted to be a part of a school whose values are aligned with my own. The diversity of the community paired with the school’s emphasis on achieving social justice drew me to the BASW program. Here, I have been able to connect with other students from all walks of life and have found comradery among others like me who are passionate about giving back to the community.
Where was your practicum placement? What did you learn during your time there?
I have just begun my practicum placement with Valley Regional Fire Authority in Auburn. It is exciting to have the opportunity to take my knowledge out of the classroom and apply the skills, which I have learned in my first year. As a student-learner in a social work setting, I know I am gaining valuable experience that I can draw from long after my time in the BASW program is over.