Leslie Jaber-Wilson
Graduate Student, Social Work

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I'm not a traditional graduate student. As a full time professional in community mental health, I realize that moving up in the profession requires a Master's degree. But I work full time and have a house full of foster kids. Traditional graduate school is not an option, but distance learning through the UW School of Social Work really works for me.

Our classes are held at Peninsula College in Port Angeles. We meet all day on Saturdays, and my fellow students are all experienced mental health professionals. The class discussions are spirited and very insightful. Professors from the UW campus lecture us in person and by videoconference. In the second and third years, we have extensive field practicums focused on children, youth, and families in rural communities and Native American tribes.

One of my major connections to the university is through the "My UW" website. I can use it for all types of inquiries from tuition balances to course requirements. It is also a direct connection to my professors. I can ask questions, turn in assignments by email, or do library research-all from my home computer.

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