Final Presentations ........ Whew ! We did it ! ! !

Now that the (two) final presentations have been given, I can say ........ GREAT JOB, TO EVERYONE !!!  Aside from the nervousness (that many of us felt), mixed feelings about the topic of choice or the end product, prep time, possible difficulties in meeting with group members, etc. etc. etc. ............ all of the presentations turned out very well.  I could see that a lot of effort went into each one.  And, it's great how everyone has been helped in some way either by doing their own presentation research, or by the info. presented by other groups.  The info. that each group has presented has also been very helpful in being enlightening about various social justice issues out there, and about ways that we can "help make a difference" individually/locally/globally.  Way to go, SOCIAL WORKERS ! ! !  :-) 

"The Forgotten Generation" (Elderly population) - I felt that there was a lot of thought and compassion involved in the group members' gathering of info., and it shows that they were really interested in the subject matter.  The resource list for the elderly population was great; I didn't know about most of the agencies/services available.  I agree that patience and understanding are really essential in working with the elderly.  I was really surprised to find out that there's such a low percentage of social workers and doctors who specialize in elder care.  I'm still pondering over which population that I'll work with once I'm done with school.  Also, I really can't see myself working in a nursing home (due to getting attached, then the person dies, and/or the negative connection that nursing home staff have in general about not taking adequate care of the residents).  But, as I'm exposed to more populations, and their issues/needs, I'm leaving my options opened about where I want to do my internship and/or be employed as a social worker.  The hand-out was very helpful, and the three things to remember if we want to help:  Volunteer, Spread Awareness, and Educate Yourself.  Great job, ladies !  :-)

"Non-Traditional Students" - Doing our project was an interesting journey.  As stated in the survey, and by group members, time constraints is a big issue for us.  So, we met at various times to put everything together.  I enjoyed gathering the info., and was really shocked that each survey participant (as undergrads) have had non-trad. students in their classes.  I guess the numbers may have been lower had I only talked with freshmen, since most of their classes are huge, and they may not even notice who's sitting next to them each time.  I personally didn't really have an issue with being labeled as a non-trad. student until I came to U.T. -- I don't have an "issue" with it now, but what I mean is that I didn't consider myself a non-trad. student before (just a "student").  I know that age-wise, I'm not in the same group as the average Longhorn.  But, when I went to ACC, the students varied in age and experiences a lot (from those fresh out of high school to adults returning to school after their children/grandchildren were adults).  I've always been the type to set the bar for myself, and not compete with the "young-folks".  Then, once I got my first "A" at U.T., it was on!  The lack of clubs/organizations well suited to my schedule and interests doesn't really bother me since I don't have a whole lot of time outside my other "adult" commitments to devote to organizations on campus anyway.  Great job, ladies!  Thanks for inviting me to join your group.  :-)

When I first found out about being in a SW cohort, I thought:  Okay, are we back in high school where the same group of students take all their classes together?  Later, I found out how very helpful this can be, and has been for me and others.  You not only see familiar faces each semester, but you also have a group of people with whom you can be accountable regarding class attendance, reminders about assignments/tests, etc.  And, there's an additional support system away from home. 
THANKS, Everyone for helping me to make it through one more semester.  I've learned lots from each of you, and hope you feel the same way.  :-)