Review of Florida Gulf Coast University's MSW Program (2023)
Nicole is a student at Florida Gulf Coast University.
Florida Gulf Coast University’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program is located in Fort Myers, Florida. The school is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Name: Nicole Kanaras
Insta: @nicole_kanaras
In person, online, or hybrid program: In person
Anticipated graduation date: May 2024
Tuition: $373.38 per credit hour for in-state graduate students
Traditional or Advanced Standing: Traditional
Where is your most recent field placement? I am currently in my clinical field placement with Lutheran Counseling Services. They are based out of Winter Park, FL. However, they are contracted by schools all over Florida. Therefore, I am providing counseling services at St. Michael’s Lutheran School in Fort Myers to kids in kindergarten through 8th grade.
For my generalist year, I had a more macro based placement with GLSEN. GLSEN is an organization that supports LGBTQ+ students in education. This placement was challenging to navigate amongst all of the laws in Florida, but it gave me such an important perspective in terms of advocacy.
What made you choose your MSW program? I chose my MSW program because of the affordability and the professors in the program. I was drawn to FGCU after my admissions interview because I appreciated the support the program offers its students and the professors’ commitment to teaching both practical and theoretical skills.
I also loved the fact that the program has a medical concentration. Based on the curriculum and the tuition cost for a graduate degree, FGCU made the most sense for me!
Who has been your favorite instructor? This is a tough one! I think I need to pick one professor in macro practice and one in micro practice. In terms of macro, Dr. Felke is one of the most knowledgeable and encouraging professors I have ever met. His approach in the classroom is to discuss real world events. He made sure we were aware of what was happening in our community, and I think that is so important. He helped us turn the idea of advocacy into action.
For micro practice, Professor Thompson has been my favorite. Her class was always engaging, and she genuinely cares about her students. She helped make sense of clinical skills and turning theory into practice.
What was your favorite class? My favorite class so far has been Policy. It pushed me to be an active member in the community. It also helped me learn how policies have come to be, which provides a starting point to challenge injustice.
What was your favorite place to study on campus? My favorite place to study on campus is the library.
What is your favorite place to eat on campus? My favorite place to eat on campus is the Marketplace Deli. They make the best subs. However, you can always catch me at Dunkin before class.
What was the best thing about your academic program? The best thing about my academic program is the curriculum. I have loved completing my medical concentration. To fulfill it, I took Trauma-Informed Care, Loss and Bereavement, Medical Social Work, and Domestic Violence. I learned so much in these four classes, and I am so thankful I got to take them alongside my core curriculum.
What are you listening to today? For music, I’m currently listening to Kelsea Ballerini! She is one of my favorites. For podcasts, I love listening to Mile Higher Podcast. They are a husband and wife duo who cover true crime and provide a call to action in every episode.
Where do you see yourself in three to five years? What are your goals? After graduation, I plan to become a registered intern with the state of Florida and eventually get my clinical license. I would like to go into private practice, as well as work with at risk youth in some capacity.
Advice to applicants: Advocate for yourself and your interests! This is how you will get a meaningful field placement and grow in the profession. Take advantage of all the extra opportunities as well! This past summer, I was able to present at the NASW conference in Florida. Though, I was so nervous, this was such an important experience for me. It helped me grow professionally, and I learned so much from others in the field.
For more information: Click here for more information about the MSW program at Florida Gulf Coast University.
Thank you, Nicole!
Social work students and graduates are not paid by Social Workers Are Awesome for their program reviews.
Interested in reviewing your social work program? Reach out to Social Workers Are Awesome here.