Student Org Spotlight: The Baccalaureate Student Social Work Association

At the undergraduate level, NC State’s Baccalaureate Student Social Work Association, more commonly known as BSSWA, provides a welcoming professional and social community for social work students. Led by the mission of helping students feel a sense of belonging within the School of Social Work, BSSWA’s diverse Executive Board coordinates monthly General Body Meetings, service projects, and mentorship opportunities every semester. The organization is led by Co-Presidents Dale Kivits and Olivia Murphy, Vice President Emily Falconer, Social Chair Jergin Herboso, Service Chair Emily Flores, Treasurer Marisa Barnes, and faculty advisor Professor Sontina Barnes. 

In the Fall of 2024, BSSWA hosted various events targeting the diverse needs and interests of their membership. A panel event with students pursuing MSW degrees at UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University allowed members to gather important insights about leading graduate programs in the area. BSSWA also presented guest speakers who worked in niche social work fields like permanency planning, and revitalized an old mentorship program designed to connect BSW and MSW students. These opportunities align with the BSW curriculum, which utilizes speaker presentations in introductory classes like SW 201 to shed light on unique social work career pathways. Likewise, BSSWA’s free headshot sessions and volunteer opportunities help students connect with agencies for curriculum-mandated service hours and practicums. By supplementing the BSW curriculum, BSSWA enhances students’ educational experience outside of the classroom. 

However, BSSWA is more than a professional organization; it is a small yet intimate community that promises peer support and meaningful connections for all members. Co-Presidents Kivits and Murphy credit BSSWA for helping them get acquainted with the social work program when they switched majors. Murphy, who previously switched from the College of Engineering to Social Work, says that BSSWA helped her “build a tight-knit community,” and Kivits, a recent Change of Degree Applicant, adds that the organization “helped me catch up with the rest of the social work majors.” It is no surprise that students who engage in service projects and monthly workshops together make lasting friendships, and the tight-knit Executive Board is a perfect example of that. Inspired by the connections they have made, the Executive Officers have made it a key priority this Spring to offer more volunteering opportunities for members. They are currently planning a variety of new events, including their next General Body Meeting on January 22nd.

If you are a new social work student, or perhaps an upperclassman interested in meeting others and engaging in service, BSSWA is the right place for you. With officer positions frequently opening up on the Executive Board, BSSWA provides leadership opportunities for driven students. If you’re still unsure of your career interests, you may find their guest speaker sessions with professionals in niche fields helpful. You can find more information about BSSWA, including upcoming meeting details, on Instagram @bsswancstate.