Olivia Brannon ’18

Social Work

Biography

I stayed in Grant County to work and live with close friends. I earned a Master’s of Social Work degree at Indiana University-Purdue University of Indianapolis and am working towards my clinician licensure. My past experiences include working with families and children of all ages who have experienced mental health and trauma-related needs. In addition to office-based work, I provided home-based case management services for behavioral and emotional management.

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

Some of the most valuable experiences I had at Taylor were the connections I made with people. The vulnerability developed over coffee and meals created a lasting impact on my life. The relationships that have continued since leaving Taylor have been the biggest blessings in my life.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

The professors, especially in the social work department, provided a well-rounded understanding of textbook knowledge and practical experience. They cared for students beyond the classroom and provided spaces for processing social issues.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

The foundational core courses support the development of critical thinking skills that are a vital component of the social work curriculum. For example, social work students take a human biology class that helps students to recognize and understand the potential medical needs of clients. Furthermore, other foundation core courses such as composition, literature, and history also develop critical writing and critical thinking skills that broaden student understanding of various issues that may impact the clients we serve.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

I would encourage people to discover what they find enjoyment doing and pursue that area of interest. Social work is such a broad field that the rest of the details will fall into place by graduation.