By Bri Brands
When Olivia Van Fosson-Roelfs entered the University of Iowa as a first-year psychology student, she didn’t know social work was an option. A conversation with her advisor, however, quickly set her on a new path toward social work.
Seeing a future for herself as a therapist, Van Fosson-Roelfs chose to double major in psychology and social work.
“I really got the best of both worlds,” she said. “Social work is so broad and filled with endless opportunities. You can be a therapist, medical social worker, case worker, school counselor, or even work at a large corporation within human resources and work with nearly every population possible.”
Van Fosson-Roelfs chose the University of Iowa for both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work — a decision she attributes to the excellent faculty.
“The department is small enough that everyone will know your name, and they’ll be the first ones to check in and provide you with support and connection,” Van Fosson-Roelfs said.
In addition to being supportive, School of Social Work faculty members consider students’ personal interests and goals when assigning practicum placements, allowing them to explore those areas.
As a master’s student, Van Fosson-Roelfs is practicing her therapeutic skills in a practicum with University Counseling Service.
“The School of Social Work is a family, celebrating each other and learning from different interests and goals of one another,” she said. “Choosing to study social work at Iowa was the right choice for me, and if you’re passionate about helping others, it might be the right choice for you too.”