Maria Saldana, MSW '24, shares how the FCHC Scholars Program boosted her confidence, skills, and connections while supporting her passion for social work.
Program of Study
Master of Social Work Class of ’24
Q&A
What inspired you to apply to be an FCHC Scholar?
To be quite honest, there is definitely that financial aspect. As someone who doesn't necessarily have the financial means to achieve higher education, I was more or less interested in receiving that. But I was also really curious about the opportunities that the program might provide, and it certainly has provided a lot of opportunities, especially with the trainings! They're all free, and they're very beneficial to my learning. I've even used some directly in my clinical setting, which has been really beneficial for me!
How have you applied what you've learned in the program to your clinical work?
I've been more aware of integrated care and more mindful of working with other providers. I’ve also learned how to present myself in a very professional way. It's definitely given me more confidence, and I carry myself more professionally, as well. Prior to the program, I honestly had a little trouble doing that. I was a little bit more shy. But with the scholars program I was able to develop the confidence to present myself and let people know what social work is all about.
What were some of the benefits of being a scholar?
I would definitely say the free learning. The financial aspect. It has helped cover the tuition costs since tuition itself is extremely costly and there's not a lot of financial aid in higher education. Also, as a person that comes from an underprivileged background, I had to focus primarily on working, making means to support myself, and also pay for tuition. I’ve had to prioritize work instead of school. But this program has certainly made it easier to focus on school, and also educating myself with the trainings that were provided. I've had to work a little bit less, which is easier for me. It even allowed me to put in my all into doing my best at my internship, which has resulted in me getting hired in my internship, so it has been a win-win.
You're also able to build connections with people from different disciplines. It's not just social workers. There's those from the [other behavioral health master’s programs at Fairfield]. That was pretty cool; you get to learn how to work with them, and ultimately produce a really amazing project towards the end, and try to at least implement it either at your internship or somewhere else. And it really does also encourage you to work in an underprivileged setting, which is beneficial because it's needed.
What are some important skills or lessons that that you've learned as a result of being a scholar?
Learning how to interact with people from different disciplines and learning about the mental health system itself. I definitely got an understanding of how the system works and what problems need to be addressed in the system. I was able to learn that even though I come from a marginalized community I can still help people in the same positions at myself, which is good for, not only my confidence, but also in terms of feeling good about what I'm doing. I know I'm in the right spot because I’ve been given this opportunity to put in the work.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to be a scholar?
Well, to be honest, I was a little bit intimidated when I first read the description. My only real suggestion is to just go for it! Honestly, it's a really great and beneficial program. And it certainly helped me in a lot of ways. As a student and as a clinician, it's given me the skills that I need, and it's set me up for success. I’d say to definitely apply, especially since you're able to make so many connections, which is so valuable!
