Priya Gupta (BASW 2024), graduate student at the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
I am living in Chicago, IL with my two black cats while I attend graduate school at the University of Chicago. When I am not studying, I enjoy reading, yoga, being outside, and spending time with friends.
Post-Graduation Description
I am a current graduate student at the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am pursuing my Advanced Standing Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Social Administration. I was also accepted into the Addressing Social Inequality through Innovations in Policy Practice program of study. I will graduate in June 2025, and am excited to eventually pursue a career at the junction of social work and public health.
Who inspires you in your work?
I am constantly finding inspiration and encouragement in the lives and work of so many incredible women who have come before me in making invaluable contributions to the fields of social work and public health. These women, including Erin Brocovich, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, Dr. Leah Jacobs, Meg Mindell, Rebecca Skloot, and Dorothy Roberts, have utilized their passion and skills to not only identify an area of society that needs improvement, but have done the hard work to make change happen.
What is your biggest professional accomplishment?
My biggest professional accomplishment thus far has been working with Dr. Leah Jacobs at the Pitt SSW on research related to mobile crisis teams, an increasingly important component of mental health service system delivery. Under Dr. Jacobs’ comprehensive mentorship, I was able to lead one of her studies and see it through to completion, from the planning stages to final data analysis and publication processes. The Pitt SSW’s Summer Undergraduate Research Award also contributed to supporting me in this opportunity.
How has the social work education you received at Pitt helped you in your career?
My social work education at Pitt SSW provided me with the foundational skills needed to thrive in graduate school and beyond. The generalist program format provides students with a strong basis in both direct practice and community level work. Because of this, I felt empowered to explore many different areas of social work during undergrad, and ended up realizing my primary interests were in social administration and policy work.
What is the most significant thing you learned at the Pitt SSW?
The most significant thing I learned at Pitt SSW was the power of asking questions and taking initiative. Most of the incredible opportunities I had through Pitt SSW came from being present in class, asking thoughtful questions, being open to criticism, and engaging directly with professors, staff, and peers. I will carry this lesson throughout the rest of my education and career.
What motivated you to pursue a degree in social work?
I originally wanted to attend medical school to become a physician. While working as an emergency medical technician, I began to notice the sheer volume of social problems my patients were facing, and I felt powerless within my medical scope to help. These problems included homelessness, food insecurity, domestic and intimate partner violence, healthcare accessibility, documentation and identification challenges, and more. Thus, I switched gears into searching for a career where I could learn more about these issues and obtain the skills to combat them, and stumbled upon social work.
What's your favorite memory of the Pitt SSW?
My favorite memory of Pitt SSW was my last day at my field placement at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. The staff was so kind to throw me a surprise party with breakfast, parting gifts, and words of encouragement for my future. I believe that day is a testament to the lasting personal and professional relationships a BASW student can form throughout their field practicum while a student at Pitt SSW.
What advice would you have for young Pitt SSW alumni?
Never be afraid to ask questions, express your passion for a certain area of work, and reach out to professors or experts in the field. It can be daunting, but most individuals are excited to speak with young professionals about their work. Opportunities do not come from sitting behind a closed door - I would encourage any young students to get up and knock on the door. You never know what amazing things may be on the other side!