A Moment I Didn’t See Coming

Presenting at Social Work Students’ Advocacy Day 2026 A Moment I Didn’t See Coming

Presenting at the 29th Annual Social Work Students’ Advocacy Day was not on my 2026 bingo card. Especially not speaking to 538 registered attendees. Yet somehow, there I was. And I am still processing the magnitude of that moment.

First, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Mrs. Jordan Anderson, LMSW, for inviting me to speak and believing my voice mattered. It was an honor to stand in that space representing Morgan State University and the United Payment for Placement movement. What I did not expect was the wave of support. Watching hundreds of social work students come on camera and instantly applaud was powerful and emotional in a way I cannot fully describe. To be trusted as a voice for so many of us felt humbling and deeply affirming.

I showed up as who I truly am.

A student.

A parent.

A working professional.

And someone completing an unpaid internship while trying to hold all the pieces of life together.

I spoke about the reality so many social work students face juggling practicum hours, coursework, employment, caregiving, bills, and the emotional weight of this profession. The financial strain of unpaid placements is not an individual failure. It is a systemic issue that shapes who has access to this field and who is pushed out.

What struck me most was the collective energy. Students across Maryland showed up with passion, frustration, clarity, and hope. We are not just preparing to serve communities. We are advocating for the future of our profession.

Paid placements are not a luxury. They are about equity, access, and workforce sustainability. Seeing policy momentum in Maryland reminds me that change is not theoretical. It is happening.

If you would like to support this movement, you can submit written testimony on SB 910 and HB 1094 here:

Health Insurance - Graduate-Level Clinical Interns - Required Reimbursement

Today reminded me that our experiences are valid. Our stories carry power. And when students speak collectively, people listen.

I left encouraged, grounded, and more committed than ever to pushing this movement forward.

Please If you are a social worker, a student, or aspiring to enter this field, leave a message for the next person coming behind you. Let them know their voice matters. Let them know they belong here.🌹