Alumni Spotlight: Shaienna Quinn, MSW '22
Current City: Irma, South Carolina
Degree: MSW (Online Campus)
Graduation Year: 2022
Current Employer: It's Your Move and LSJ Counseling
Current Title: Mental Health Therapist
Tell us about the work you are currently doing and why you are passionate about it.
Currently, I am a mental health therapist for individuals, families and couples. I love that I am able to work independently and really focus on my clients. My job comes with flexibility, incentives for further training and great relationships with my co-workers.
What made you decide to pursue a degree in social work?
I began my career in criminal justice at a psychiatry residential treatment facility for children and teenagers. While on the job, I would build rapport and trust with the residents on my unit, which allowed me to really get to know them on a deeper level than we were trained to do. This peaked my interest in therapy, resulting in me obtaining my MSW to pursue that career path.
What made you choose the Garland School of Social Work?
I chose the Garland School of Social Work because I like the curriculum that was presented via the MSW website. The application process was feasible for me, and the staff was friendly and helpful. I felt supported even in the beginning stages; which confirmed for me that I would be supported throughout the two years of the program.
Tell us about your favorite professor, course or fun memory from your time with the GSSW.
My favorite professor at the GSSW is Professor LeAnn Gardner. She taught my capstone course, which was also my favorite course. I loved that I was able to pick my own topic of interest to present to the community and Professor Gardner shared interest in my topic as well. We talked several times outside of class and still keep in contact with one another. The colloquium presentation was a great memory and new skill for me to acquire with public speaking.
Is there anything you'd like to share about the MSW program at Baylor?
I learned so much about myself as a person at Baylor. I was pushed to become the best that I knew I could be and put myself in uncomfortable situations to grow. Baylor led me to the decision to engage in public speaking more, and you all will see me in the near future!
Social work is the fastest path to becoming a mental health professional, and the Garland School of Social Work graduates more mental health professionals than any other program at Baylor University. Interested? Reach out to our Admissions Team to learn more.