Michelle Woods (MSW '94)
Michelle Woods keeps coming back to Michigan--as an undergrad, an MSW student, and now as the director of career services--but it was during her time as a professional social worker that she developed her unique perspective. Her versatility now provides a valuable resource for aspiring social workers in need of career guidance.
After earning a BA in political science from U-M, Woods worked and volunteered for three years. She eventually took a class on juvenile delinquency and learned about social policy, "which," she says "sparked my interest in social work and made me realize I wanted to pursue my MSW."
Woods was recruited to the U-M School of Social Work by Professor Edith Lewis, who offered one-on-one attention and helped convince Woods to focus on social policy. MSW in hand, Woods worked for five years with the Family Independence Agency in southeast Michigan, never losing touch with the school. If anything, her ties grew stronger.
"Whenever I needed outside expertise on a case, I felt comfortable contacting my MSW professors, and they were always willing to offer advice and support," she recalls. She volunteered to mentor the student interns working with her in child welfare and often found herself pointing them toward Michigan's MSW program.
Recognizing Woods' strong bond to the school, Professor Lewis again recruited her to Michigan, this time to the admissions staff. Woods says she was "reenergized by the energy of the students."
She recalls one student who was concerned about leaving home. "I was able to show her that the classes were small and the Michigan community was very welcoming. It was great to see her come here and grow, to get out of her comfort zone. I see her now at alumni and recruitment events and it's a really good feeling."
Woods and the Office of Student Services--in collaboration with other campus units--organize job fairs, alumni networking events, and professional workshops. The office actively seeks student participation and input on its programs. "Just being here I still learn a lot," she says. "I love the zest for social work that students have, and it reinforces why I went into the field. The energy they bring makes this work immensely rewarding."