Master of Social Work (MSW) student Drew Greenwald completed an internship with Sage Living in Orlando, Florida, an independent living facility for young adults who transitioned out of foster care after turning 18.
In his role as social worker, Greenwald taught life skills classes to Sage Living residents and provided counseling through a one-on-one psychosocial rehabilitation program. His classes included topics like hygiene, cooking, budgeting, managing finances for the future, how to get an apartment and how to apply for college.
“I’ve enjoyed being able to work with the young adults and watch them become successful,” Greenwald says.
Greenwald shares his experience on the latest episode of Knight Life @UCFCHPS, a video series that provides an inside look at student life at the UCF College of Health Professions and Sciences by highlighting internships, research, study abroad, specialized courses, student organizations and other high impact practices that promote student success.
“This field internship has offered me a hands-on experience,” Greenwald says. “Whereas in a classroom, we discuss interventions and theories, but we don’t actually apply them. This [experience] offers me real-world, tangible interactions with clients and helps me develop and find my own identity as a social worker.”
Greenwald’s future aspirations include obtaining his license, working with veterans and young adults and eventually starting his own private practice. He also hopes to teach at UCF, sharing his experiences and knowledge with future social work students.
Field education is required for students completing a degree in social work. Clinical MSW students like Greenwald must complete 1,000 hours. The School of Social Work partners with more than 850 agencies in both the U.S. and overseas for students to complete their required hours. The sites are comprised of non-profit, government, healthcare, and educational facilities. On average, 80% of students receive an offer of employment from their practicum sites.
