April Asare

B.A. Social Work Program, Senior

Making a Difference

People are motivated to pursue careers for many different reasons – money, prestige, career advancement. Others, like April Asare, senior at UMBC at The Universities at Shady Grove (USG), are motivated by something very different - a burning desire to positively impact the lives of others.

In her pursuit to find the perfect school that would allow her to empower and impact, she discovered UMBC at USG. “I was thrilled. Not only was UMBC close to my home, which is important because of my children, but it provided me with so many opportunities for community involvement which really makes differences in the lives of others,” she said. A true social worker by nature, Asare was quick to get involved.

UMBC’s Social Work Program at USG is a very active one, where students work side-by-side on projects through the Social Work’s Honor Society, Phi Alpha. Asare is the Vice-President of Phi Alpha, and volunteers as a community liaison within the program. “What prompted me to take on both roles is my desire to be involved in community outreach projects and to strengthen the Social Work Program.” She noted that the biggest benefit to attending a school like UMBC at USG is the opportunities to work alongside peers and collaborate with other organizations to bring about positive social results, and ultimately improve the lives of others.

This summer, Asare worked with others in the Social Work Program on a project where they collected school supplies to donate to one of the community schools. “To be given the opportunity to positively impact the life of a child is so exciting and rewarding. Everyone involved is really in it to serve others and make life better for them.” Asare continuously seeks opportunities where she can connect with others.

This semester, she has taken on another role with the Center for Academic Success at USG as a Guided Study Leader for upcoming juniors. “I can’t wait to witness how the juniors progress from the beginning of the fall semester into the spring semester.” As a junior, Asare felt intimidated and overwhelmed coming into a new environment to pursue a new career. “I remember feeling so inadequate; so lost at first. Then, things turned around for the better so quickly. I want to make sure that happens to all of our juniors.

One of the things that helped Asare feel at home right away when she came to UMBC at USG is the small class sizes and the dedication of the faculty and staff. “The school definitely provides a highly conducive atmosphere for an outstanding learning experience.”

Asare feels confident that UMBC at USG is giving her the tools and knowledge she will need to launch a successful career as a social worker. Until then, she will continue to enjoy the great lessons and connections she makes as she moves closer to graduation, and will continue to thrive knowing that she is making a difference.