GSS Student Ambassadors
Our GSS Student Ambassadors are here to help you get a better sense of what it is like to be a MSW student here at Fordham. Whether you are a prospective applicant or a recently admitted students, our ambassadors are here to answer whatever questions you have about the Fordham student experience. Reach out to them by emailing [email protected] or by signing up for a campus tour.
Manhattan Campus Ambassadors
Name: Kailyn Castro
Hometown: Sherman, Texas
Undergrad College: Indiana University, Purdue University, Indianapolis
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: I am interested in both macro and clinical
There are many reasons I was intrigued by Fordham—the flexible plans of study, its tuition cost compared to other institutions in the city—but ultimately made my decision after speaking to individuals who had loved being part of the GSS program. During an info session, admissions spoke to Fordham's focus on "care of the whole person" and how it feels like a true community which I found enticing. Then, I spoke to a GSS Student Ambassador who shared their lived experience of the program, fellow students, faculty, and staff, and how they felt supported to succeed—it all confirmed that Fordham was the place for me.
Name: Olivia Meyer-Jennette
Hometown: Greensboro, NC
Undergrad College: Tufts University
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Trauma-informed therapy, gender equality, food justice
Before I started at Fordham, almost every person involved in the program expressed that it was a special place. And it felt true as soon as I walked through the door; I've found that community members really live the Fordham emphasis on cura personalis, which makes it easy to make connections with professors and peers and take full advantage of their knowledge and support.
Name: Supriya Chabria
Hometown: Upper East Side, Manhattan
Undergrad College: Delhi University
Plan of Study: Full Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Interested in diversity, equity & inclusion, the immigrant experience, and women in the workplace
I chose Fordham because of the people and values. The admissions team at Fordham GSS took the time to work with me and provide guidance. These interactions made me confident that Fordham would offer a collaborative environment. Since then, I have not been disappointed. I've met students and professors in hallways, all of whom are eager to connect and work with you. It truly feels like a community with a sense of belonging.
Name: Tess Palin
Hometown: Sunapee, NH
Undergrad College: Syracuse University
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Advocacy & Community Organizing, Aging, Health Care, Mental Health
What drew me to Fordham University was the different practice domains offered at both the macro and micro levels, as well as the specialized practice certificates. As someone who was unsure of the concentration I would end up choosing (i.e., either individuals and families or organizations and communities), I greatly appreciated the flexibility and breadth of learning in the program, which will eventually lead me to the most informed decision of a specialization. I also loved the opportunity to obtain a certificate of specialized practice to supplement my learning and make myself more distinguished in the field.
Name: Jenifer Herrera
Hometown: Crotona Park East, The Bronx
Undergrad College: Lehman College
Plan of Study: Part Time 4 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Different areas in social work such as women's right, elder abuse, and mental health for children
I have chosen to pursue a career in social work to support and advocate for vulnerable populations. I chose Fordham University because Fordham University is one of the top-rated social work programs in NYC. Fordham provides flexibility and support, allowing me to attend classes in person, work full-time, and be at home with my family.
Name: Nia Wallace
Hometown: Bushwick, Brooklyn
Undergrad College: Hunter College
Plan of Study: Part-Time 4 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Community Organizing, Advocacy, and Policy
When deciding which M.S.W Program I wanted to commit to, the GSS student ambassadors were super helpful and able to answer all of my questions. I was excited to be a part of a program that's so flexible for someone who works full time as well. I knew Fordham to be a highly ranked MSW program and meeting some of the faculty at the welcome reception was such a pleasant experience. I felt right at home, and couldn't think of a better place to develop the skills to advocate for underserved communities in NYC.
Name: John Baldo
Hometown: Colts Neck, NJ
Undergrad College: Emerson College
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Substance Use Disorder/Addiction Recovery
Fordham is the ultimate NYC school! I fell in love with the Lincoln Center Campus when I first visited it, and the social work program seemed like an excellent experience that I feel so lucky to have been selected for. My cousin also went to Fordham undergrad, and had excellent things to say. I feel so lucky to be at Fordham.
Name: Sahiba Bhatnagar
Hometown: Plainvew, New York
Undergrad College: Seton Hall University
Plan of Study: Part-Time Advanced Standing
Current Phase: Specialist
Area(s) of Interest: Mental Health and Clinical Social Work, Children and Families, School Social Work
I chose Fordham for several, strong reasons! Overall, I knew Fordham’s combination of rigorous academic training and a strong focus on social advocacy would prepare me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve. Along with that, Fordham’s location in New York City offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on experience and networking in diverse settings, and the faculty’s expertise and mentorship were also significant factors in my decision.
Molloy Campus Ambassadors
Name: Mitchell Selzer
Hometown: Whitestone (Queens, NY)
Undergrad College: CUNY York College
Plan of Study: Full-Time Advanced Standing
Current Phase: Specialist
Area(s) of Interest: School social worker, adolescents and substance abuse
I selected Fordham to pursue my graduate studies because I was confident that I would receive a great education. Fordham offers a flexible schedule for their students and they understand that many students work while pursuing their degree. Fordham offered several options in various locations to attend in-person, hybrid, or fully online courses. Further, Fordham has a partnership with Molloy University and living in Queens, it was the best fit for me. When I was applying to graduate programs, the Fordham ambassador helped contribute to my support system. They responded to questions about the program as well as eased my mind. I am excited to advance in my studies, see all that Fordham has to offer, and fulfill my dream of helping others. I have been enjoying my Fordham journey thus far and I look forward to more experiences!
Name: Lindsey Trentham
Hometown: Bellmore, Long Island
Undergrad College: Molloy University
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Children and Mental Health
I have attended Molloy University as an undergraduate, and have fallen in love with the campus and social work professors! The Fordham/Molloy program allows me to learn MSW classes while being able to balance my time to work, study, and socialize. I have gained new insights and experiences, and I feel prepared and confident in my skills from these classes!
Westchester Campus Ambassadors
Name: Jennifer Gregoriano
Hometown: Queens, NY
Undergrad College: Adelphi University
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Clinical Social Work, School Social Work
I chose Fordham because I have heard so many amazing things about the campus and knew I would receive a fulfilling education here.
Name: Jacob Mercado
Hometown: Yorktown Heights, Westchester
Undergrad College: Dominican University
Plan of Study: Full-Time 2 Year
Current Phase: Generalist
Area(s) of Interest: Criminal Justice, School Social Work, & Community Organizing
The reason I chose Fordham is because of their profound reputation for their MSW program. While researching other MSW programs, I found that Fordham offered a diverse learning experience. Whether students are interested in working with various populations or specializing in one area, Fordham offers the opportunity to explore other options. Additionally, after speaking with some of the faculty, alumni, and administrators, I knew this program would benefit my future. Being new to any type of school can cause a sense of Anxiety but after my exchange with a student ambassador it made me feel right at home and from there I knew I made the right choice.