PhD in Social Work: Meet Dr. Regina Trammel
Dr. Regina Trammel graduated from the PhD in Social Work program in 2016 and is currently working as a professor at Azusa Pacific University.
Dissertation title
"Christian-Informed Mindfulness: A Theoretical and Empirical Exploration"
What was your primary motivation for pursuing a PhD in Social Work?
I chose the Garland School's PhD program because of the faith-based integration, flexible/online hybrid delivery, and for job entry into academia.
What aspects of the Garland School’s PhD program were most impactful to you?
Faculty, community, research mentoring and support.
How did faculty support you throughout your journey?
Encouragement to submit proposals and papers to journals and/or conferences.
How would you describe the sense of community within the program?
Community was impactful, I still am in touch with some peers who also teach in social work departments. These connections have inspired and supported my development as a faculty member.
What did you gain from the PhD program you find most valuable in your career?
Integration of faith in social work. I only went to secular institutions all my life, so learning how to integrate faith in understanding of social work concepts and my particular research agenda was very helpful.
How did the program prepare you for your current role?
Very well, I feel like I got all the skills needed to be a successful faculty member at a Christian academic institution. Teaching, research and skills in collaboration were highlighted for me.
How has your PhD influenced your career path or professional opportunities?
The PhD, no doubt has helped me attain promotion, has helped me become a published author, and has helped create my research agenda. None of these things would have happened without the PhD at GSSW.
How did the PhD program challenge you to grow?
In many ways--it grew me into not just a practitioner, but into a scholar and teacher as well as social work practitioner.
What long-term impact have you or do you hope to make in the field, and how did/might your PhD help you achieve that vision?
The PhD has helped me further my writing and research agenda. I also have a really curious mind now and have fostered the discipline and skills in research, writing and presenting that I lean on daily.
Would you recommend the Garland School of Social Work PhD in Social Work program?
Yes, absolutely, and I have sent applicants and students to the program. It will foster and develop social work educators and researchers.
What advice would you give to those considering the program?
To explore a research agenda they are passionate about, and to get clear on a research question, or area in social work that they are extremely curious about.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience that might help prospective students?
The Garland school will equip you, hold you to a high standard, and prepare you for long term success as a social work leader and/or academic.