Scarlett's Grad School Trip: Study in America in LA

As you all may know I am in graduate school for my Master of Social Work degree. The journey thus far has taught me so much about myself, my core values and who I want to be as a social worker and community leader. I strive to support others in achieving their goals and ensuring continued wellness and mental health practices in my community.

I have been accepted into the Study in America program through Texas State University, which goes to Los Angeles, California in July of this year! Because I’ve already met the requirements of my program elective wise this program is not covered under financial aid. However, I am determined to make this happen. This is an incredible opportunity for me to learn in a hands-on environment. I will be going to three incredibly important nonprofits that benefit many vulnerable populations in the LA area. More info below! We will be learning and working with these organizations by making meals, and providing supplies for school, art, and clothing. This is especially important currently because of the fires that ravaged the area earlier this year. With money raised, I will be able to participate in the program and cover meals and emergency expenses. Excess funds will be donated to the non-profits we will be working with.

This opportunity means so to me as a scholar and social worker because I want to be in nonprofit leadership in the future. I believe this experience will grant me the resources, life-skill and knowledge necessary to enhance my career and gain hands-on experience. Some of you may know that my focus is primarily on healing in urban environments through nature experiences and outdoor adventures. Learning about urban experiences in a large city like LA is important to shaping what my career will look like.

Here are some links and summaries so you can learn a little bit about the organizations that I will be working with as well as details about this program and the experiences that I will have:

- Homeboy Industries is a non-profit started in 1986 by Father Greg Boyle to help former gang members and prisoners reintegrate into their communities through counseling, job training, substance use services, parenting classes, and tattoo removal services. https://homeboyindustries.org/

- PATH serves the unhoused veteran community in Los Angeles and provides housing, food and mental health resources. They use an empowerment perspective to help clients self-start and find goals that work for the individual. https://epath.org/

- Wellnest just celebrated 100 years in 2024 (formerly Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic) They use a trauma-informed approach to helping children with mental health issues and empower families by connecting them to resources and services they may need. https://www.wellnestla.org/

As the side hustle queen, I am also working at a couple festivals and trying to raise funds through selling some of my vintage clothing, (HMU on DEPOP for that). However, as a part-time employee and graduate student, finding extra money has been difficult so your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for reading and if you have any questions or want to discuss anything with me, I would love to hear from you.

-Scarlett