Student Ambassador Profile

Cecily is a BSSW student from Chattanooga, TN. She has passions for advocacy, equity, and justice and has loved the opportunities the College of Social Work has allowed her to further her education, qualifications, and confidence in these areas. Cecily is minoring in both Political Science and Social Justice in addition to being part of…

Zak is a third-year PhD student from Plainfield, Illinois. He previously graduated from the University of Michigan with a MSW with a concentration in program evaluation and applied research. During his time at the University of Michigan, he worked both with the Program Evaluation Group (PEG) and did his field placement at the Center on Assets, Education, and…

Julie is a born-and-raised Nashvillian pursuing her MSSW at the University of Tennessee (Nashville Campus) in the Advanced Standing program. She graduated with her BSW from Belmont University in May of 2025. Julie’s main interest is in Forensic Social Work serving survivors of interpersonal violence and she is currently acquiring her Forensic Certification. Julie’s passion…

Jalen is a MSSW student at the University of Tennessee in the Advanced Standing program. He graduated with his BSW from Belmont in May of 2025, and has lived in Nashville for 6 years. Jalen a passion for supporting individuals in recovery and promoting mental wellness. Drawing on his experience in the recovery field, he…

Brooke is a second-year Master’s student at the University of Tennessee pursuing a degree in Social Work. She has lived in Nashville for 10 years and considers it home. Brooke has a passion for bridging communities and participating in the work of empowering underserved and marginalized populations. Brooke has her background in psychology and counseling…

Miya Matusek earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in May 2024. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, based in Nashville. Upon graduation in May 2026, Miya will be certified in school social work and certified in…

Azalea is a senior online BSSW student from Nashville. She speaks English and Spanish and has a strong connection to her Mexican roots. Azalea is a first-generation college student and understands the struggle of transitioning though the educational system. She hopes to be of support to any first-generation student.  Azalea has an interest working with…

Sara is from East Tennessee and is a MSSW student at the University of Tennessee in the Advanced Standing program. She graduated with her BSSW from UTK in May of 2025. Sara’s main interest is in School Social Work with elementary school clients. She has completed her School Social Work License and is acquiring her Trauma Certification. Sara’s…

Kenzie Wright is a passionate and dedicated student currently pursuing a Master of Science in Social Work at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminology, Law and Society from George Mason University, where she developed a strong interest in the intersections of trauma, systemic inequality, and the criminal justice…

Jax is a senior in the online BSSW program. He is originally from Paragould, Arkansas, and now lives in Washington, DC. Jax is passionate about mental health and advocacy and plans to pursue a career in clinical social work, focusing on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. Outside of school, Jax loves going to concerts (currently has been to over 30!), going to…