University of ConnecticutStudent Profiles
Jennifer Wilder-Jackson
Advanced Year Administration Student
Bachelor’s Degree:
University of Connecticut
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Marketing
I am a UConn husky for life. My parents and one of my older sisters are graduates of the University. It was no wonder why I began my undergraduate studies at UConn. Now I am a couple of months away from completing my Master’s Degree in Administration with a concentration in Urban Issues from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work. The University has put together a rigorous plan of study that is progressive, proactive, and consistently improving in its approach. My exposure to the theory and methodology that provides structure to social services coupled with years of service in disadvantaged and progressive communities, will arm me with the tools necessary to continue to effect change in my community.
In nearly fifteen years of service to the Greater Hartford community, I have assisted countless people attain resources; getting energy assistance, stopping a foreclosure, finding housing after a fire, graduating from high school, enrolling into college, obtaining employment, or realizing career goals. I have worked as direct line staff for various social service agencies as an intern, manager of a major grant and most recently as a Coordinator of Vocational Programs for the Town of Manchester, Teaching Fellow at Capital Community College and Director of Operations for NiRo Career Services. I also serve as the Co-Chair for the Organization of Black Social Work Students and as the Administration Student Representative for the School. I think the student voice is only heard when it is loud and visible. Becoming active on campus is important to ensure the faculty and staff does not loose sight of their mission and duty to the student body.
In my placement I am a teaching fellow within the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department at Capital Community College. A placement that has afforded me the opportunity to further develop my administrative skills, fulfill the need for a program that will empower a disenfranchised population to seek out a profession within social services, as well as develop my teaching skills. I have been able to build curriculum, create community forums, and partner with the local social services community. Through my studies, I am exposed to courses that speak to the history of social services, research methods, and policy/program development and management. In my work and field placement, I am able to share those theories and techniques with youth and studying social workers who will be the future community leaders and practitioners in human services.
How can you work, have a family, go to class and fit in field placement hours? You can easily convince your boss and your family that this is a great idea. The course load is tough, but manageable. The field placement hours however, are the test of your endurance. I am a testament to being able to seek professional development while working full time and raising a family. My only advice to you is to ask for help. Begin to create your network of friends, faculty, family and classmates to help you on this journey. There is no I in Team but there is a U in Success.