GSS Student Ambassadors

the fall 2024 student ambassadors stand in the lincoln center courtyard smiling. they're in front of the ram statue.

Our GSS Student Ambassadors are here to help you get a better sense of what it is like to be an MSW student here at Fordham. Whether you are a prospective applicant or a recently admitted student, 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

headshot of kailyn castro

Name: Kailyn Castro

Hometown: Sherman, Texas

Undergrad Major & College: Sociology & Communications from Indiana University

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.


 

Olivia Meyer-Jennette Headshot

Name: Olivia Meyer-Jennette

Hometown: Greensboro, NC

Undergrad Major & College: Literary & Visual Studies from 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.


 

Tess Palin Headshot

Name: Tess Palin

Hometown: Sunapee, NH

Undergrad Major & College: Nutrition from 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.


 

Jenifer Herrera headshot

Name: Jenifer Herrera

Hometown: Crotona Park East, The Bronx

Undergrad Major & College: Psychology from Lehman College

Plan of Study: Part Time 3 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.


 

Sahiba Bhatnagar headshot

Name: Sahiba Bhatnagar

Hometown: Plainvew, New York

Undergrad Major & College: Social Work from 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.


 

Westchester Campus Ambassadors

Jennifer Gregoriano Headshot

Name: Jennifer Gregoriano

Hometown: Queens, NY

Undergrad Major & College: Psychology from 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.