Social Work Alumni: Kandance Rudd, BSW '10
Graduation year: 2010
Current City: Tallahassee, Florida
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Social Work, Baylor University
Employer: Waldoch & McConnaughhay, P.A.
Title: Attorney/Partner/Shareholder
What are you are currently doing, and why you are passionate about it?
I am an elder law attorney. As an elder law attorney I am given the opportunity to assist individuals and families during some of the hardest life transitions by helping them advocate for and obtain the care and supports needed to remain as independent as possible in various settings.
What does your typical day look like?
I assist individuals and families with legal needs related to guardianship, public benefits, planning for and responding to issues arising from aging and capacity, and probate.
What made you decide to pursue a degree in social work?
I wanted to assist people to advocate for themselves and connect them to tools/resources to empower their choices.
Tell us your favorite thing about your time at the Garland School of Social Work?
The best part of Garland School of Social Work was the volunteer work and internship training to expose me to a variety of social work settings. I learned hands-on how to use the skills and training from the classroom.
What advice would you give to those considering a career in social work?
Think about the decision seriously because social workers work with some of the most vulnerable people in our society and you need to be committed to the work before you begin. Once you make the decision, be sure to open yourself up to all the opportunities within social work and actively engage in the practice of social work.
What else would you like to share about social work at Baylor University?
I absolutely loved my time at Garland School of Social Work, and it was the most positive experience from my undergraduate time. During my initial interview following my first major essay in GSSW a faculty member encourage me to think about a career in law and to pursue advocacy; without that encouragement I'm sure I would be where I am now.