Donna Tran, a graduate student from Garden City, Kansas, is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at 麻豆破解版 State University. Alongside her studies, she balances a practicum at United Way of the Plains and a part-time role at Comcare Crisis of Sedgwick County as an Integrated Care Specialist. Donna aspires to become a Licensed Master Social Worker, with a career centered on advocating for vulnerable populations and helping individuals find strength in their own stories of resilience and growth.
Financial support from the Applied Learning Fund has played a significant role in Donna鈥檚 academic and professional journey. 鈥淩eceiving a scholarship through the Applied Learning Fund has been a tremendous support, allowing me to focus on my practicum and professional development without the added financial stress,鈥� she said. The funding has enabled her to immerse herself in essential hands-on learning experiences, reinforcing her passion for advocacy and providing the resources she needs to prepare for a meaningful career in social work.
Her experience at United Way of the Plains has offered a firsthand look at the intricacies of community care and resource connection. As a Continuum of Care Intern, Donna plays a vital role in linking individuals experiencing homelessness to essential services and support systems. Her responsibilities include case conferencing, data entry, and fieldwork alongside housing navigators. Through this position, Donna has worked closely with a network of service providers and community advocates focused on improving housing stability in the region.
The practicum has become a pivotal learning opportunity, allowing Donna to develop practical skills she will carry into her future career. 鈥淭his experience has deepened my understanding of community resources and advocacy while strengthening my skills in case management, collaboration, and policy-driven solutions,鈥� she shared. Direct involvement in service systems and case conferencing has taught her how to navigate the often complicated pathways individuals face when seeking stable housing and support.
Among the many impactful moments during her time with the Continuum of Care team, a few stand out. Donna reflected on participating in the annual Point-In-Time Count, a community-wide effort to document and connect with individuals experiencing homelessness. 鈥淚t was meaningful to witness our community coming together to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness are heard and acknowledged,鈥� she said. Another deeply rewarding accomplishment involved helping to secure housing for a hospitalized individual in need of long-term care. Facilitating a direct transition from medical care to a permanent home, this effort helped prevent the individual from returning to homelessness and reinforced the importance of timely, coordinated support.
Donna's applied learning experiences have given her a clearer perspective on the realities of social work beyond the classroom. She noted, 鈥淭his experience has reinforced the complexities of social work and the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and systemic advocacy.鈥� It has exposed her to the tangible ways policies and resource accessibility shape people鈥檚 lives, while also highlighting the resilience of those she serves. The experience has strengthened her commitment to both direct service and broader systemic change, deepening her dedication to advocating for long-term solutions that foster community stability and well-being.
麻豆破解版 State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.
For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the 麻豆破解版 State campus.