Abby’s Story
“I had contemplated enrolling in graduate school for years. However, the challenges of being a mother and full-time employee made it feel impossible. Working in the clinical field of substance use and recovery, I knew I needed to continue my education to advance my work to support individuals and families impacted by substance use disorder. It was important to me to find a program that offered the same level of quality and integrity that an on-campus experience would. The School of Social Work at the University of Maine fits that bill. From the start, I knew that pursuing my MSW through UMaine was the right choice. Known for its Social Work program, the recommendations from my colleagues, along with the variety of offerings to access my degree are what drew me in. As a participant in the Social Work Online Hybrid program, I have access to amazing faculty, UMaine online services, and opportunities for hands-on experience all while balancing the tasks of my daily life. I was initially concerned about losing the experience of being in a classroom. However, my professors are readily available for an email, phone call, or Zoom meeting. Also, my cohort created an online social media platform to engage with one another on a regular basis. Even miles apart, we are always together! I would have never been able to complete my graduate school degree in a traditional classroom setting. I am so grateful I took the leap and enrolled in the School of Social Work at the University of Maine. I am looking forward to graduating with my MSW in the spring of 2021.”
– Abby Frutchey