For Emily Jones, it was love at first sight: a snowy day in Storrs on her first visit to UConn from her native New Jersey made for the picture-perfect collegiate image. But she quickly learned that UConn is more than meets the eye: her commitment to the deaf community helped steer her toward a course of study in social work, and the University was an ideal environment for someone learning the ins and outs of the field. Her next step is a Master’s in Social Work, and the continued pursuit of equity and support for all.
Why did you choose UConn?
I’ve wanted to live in New England since I was a kid (I’m originally from New Jersey). It snowed on my first visit to UConn, and I couldn’t get over how beautiful the campus was. I fell in love with UConn right away. It was everything I thought college would look like. I also knew it would be a great academic fit for me and what I was looking for. It was the best of both worlds!
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
I majored in social work at UConn, since I’ve always loved being around and talking to people. I have strong ties to the deaf community. Seeing the needs of that community inspired me to pick social work as a major. The deaf community is a population that is consistently overlooked, yet they still remain strong and resilient. That’s something I really admire about them, and I wanted to utilize my skills to their maximum potential to serve them. This desire eventually led me to social work.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
My SOWK 3000 course with Milagros Marrero-Johnson is always one that sticks out to me when I reflect on my time at UConn. She explained and framed social justice issues in a way that made me rethink and reevaluate everything I thought I knew. I feel like I gained a lot of really valuable knowledge and skills from her.
What activities were you involved in as a student?
I was on the women’s rowing team on the Storrs campus, and I was also president of the American Sign Language club for two years.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
I am planning on working toward my Master’s in Social Work next year! I am also part of the CT LEND program that works with individuals with disabilities.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
The connections to resources and people in the community is something that I think makes UConn extra special. I’ve gotten a lot of great experiences and opportunities through connections that professors or advisors have set up for me. I feel a lot more confident in my path and what my future looks like because those people were willing to reach out and help me.
Any advice for incoming students?
Take time to slow down and appreciate where you are. Five years ago, I wanted nothing more than to go to college and in a blink of an eye it’s almost over. Take every opportunity to be grateful and embrace your support networks if you are struggling.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
Go to the Dairy Bar and sit on Horsebarn Hill on the Storrs campus with friends. Some of my best memories from college came from those experiences!
