Name: Elizabeth Nydam
Hometown: Millbury, MA
Year of Degree Completion: BSW 2018, MSW 2020
Why did you select Anna Maria College as your graduate school?
I obtained my undergrad from Anna Maria and had enjoyed the culture and inclusivity of the campus. Every professor I had was knowledgeable and supportive and when researching my options for graduate schools, I knew that Anna Maria would be able to provide what I was looking for.
What are your favorite things about the MSW program?
I think one of the best things about the MSW program at Anna Maria would be that the program allows students to explore so many different areas of social work on all levels, micro, macro, and mezzo, and be exposed to a variety of different populations. The instructors work hard to ensure that students are exposed to areas in the field that the student wants to focus on, and the professors also encourage students to explore new areas in the field. This is something that helped me be more open-minded and increased my skill set while in graduate school.
What do you hope to achieve in the future with your graduate degree?
I have taken an interest in working with people who are struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body insecurities. My hope is to continue to educate others in the field about these conditions, advocate for an increase in funding and research for eating disorders, and hopefully open an integrated practice that supports individuals in all stages of recovery.
Where do you currently work and what do you enjoy about your career?
I currently work for Open Sky Community Services in Worcester. I love that I am surrounded by peers who are supportive, encouraging, and knowledgeable. One of the things I love most about my workplace is that there is so much to learn from everyone around me. I love being able to support the individuals I work with and connect them with resources, help them develop skills, and be a safe space when they need one.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a social worker?
For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a social worker is simply being in a field that is truly working towards making an impact for the greater good. Social work is a rapidly growing field that promotes change systematically, within communities, and for individuals. There are so many opportunities to become involved and be an active participant in making changes.
What should prospective students know about Anna Maria’s MSW program?
Prospective students should know that Anna Maria’s MSW program will provide them with the experience and education necessary to be successful in the field. Prospective students should know that the professors make learning fun, hands-on, and relatable. The program teaches students how to utilize self-care, compassion, and empathy to navigate the work that they will one day be doing.
