Hanna Anderson ’26 earns national social work recognition, offers encouragement to students

Hanna Anderson '26 MSW/MPA was named Social Work Student of the Year by Agents of Change, an exam preparation and education platform for aspiring social workers. One of two students to receive the national honor, Anderson earned free test preparation materials valued at $500 for her upcoming LSW exam, which is planned for August after she completes her Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration through Aurora University's online dual degree program.

As a graduate student in the home stretch, she balances online coursework, an unpaid internship with the American Red Cross, and a part-time job, all while studying for her licensure exam and saving for tuition, tutoring costs, and test preparation materials.

To help ease some of the financial pressure, Anderson independently applied for Social Work Student of the Year in March. Her personality and passion for helping others were clear in her reaction to winning.

"The announcement was posted on April Fool's Day, so I wasn't even sure it was real at first. Then I broke down and cried because it was a weight off my shoulders," she explained. "I was so grateful, but I also found myself wishing there was enough support for everyone who applied because I know how stressful test season is."

Anderson shared advice for students in similarly overwhelming situations: believe in yourself, don't be afraid to take mental health days or say no when your plate is full, and get comfortable with the uncomfortable. One of her personal mottos is, "I am smarter than the paper," which serves as a reminder that grades, assignments, and work challenges should never have more power over her and her emotions than she allows.

She also encourages students to self-advocate - not only for academic resources and financial support but also for new experiences.

"Don't be afraid to find opportunities that don't exist yet," she said. "I've often reached out to ask whether there was a role or simply an opportunity to learn. If I hadn't taken those chances, I wouldn't have had the experiences that led me to where I am today."

After graduation and obtaining LSW licensure, Anderson plans to complete a certificate to serve in veterinary social work. "My dream job would be working with animals and children, perhaps in animal-assisted therapy," she said.

Anderson leaves her fellow aspiring social workers with a final reminder: "Social work skills are everywhere. You can make anything related to social work, so don't be afraid to think outside the box and leverage your passions."