UA Little Rock is recognizing outstanding social work students in celebration of Social Work Month. After working in the field for over 20 years, sophomore Glendaliz Torres will become the first in her family to earn a degree. 

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I am originally from Puerto Rico. I’ve been studying social work for about two years. 

What made you decide to study social work at UA Little Rock?

I decided to get a degree in something I love to do, and I heard that UA Little Rock had a great program.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I’m going to apply for the concurrent Master of Social Work/Master of Public Service degree program and continue working as a home visitation specialist for UAMS Head Start/Early Head Start program.

March is Social Work Month, and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) announced that the theme this month is “Social Workers are Essential.” Tell us why you think social workers are essential.

Social workers are essential because we are the most knowledgeable about the communities that we serve. We are educated in diversity and community engagement, and we are passionate about social, economic and racial equity. It is my belief that social workers should be anywhere that decisions that affect people are being made.

How has studying social work affected you as a person?

It has made me more aware of how important it is to advocate for people and resources. It has nurtured my growth as a person and as a social worker. I have a clearer understanding of people and how our environment shapes us all.

Who have been some of your mentors or supporters throughout your time in the program?

My instructors like Mr. Dave Hoffpauir, an adjunct professor who teaches Practice I and II. He has an amazing belief in his students. He continuously challenges us to look at things differently and ask the hard questions so that we always do our best to make informed decisions, not only for ourselves but for our clients.

The whole social work class of 2021, we supported each other and encouraged each other to keep going when the world was upside down, basically all of 2020. 

What advice do you have for people thinking of majoring in social work?

It’s not a profession, it’s a calling. Social workers make the world better, no matter what field of social work you go into. If it’s your calling, do it.