Why I Chose My Major: Social Work

About Sayler

Sayler is a Junior at Hardin-Simmons University who grew up in the small town of Earth, Texas, located in the northern panhandle region of Texas.  

She is involved on campus through her contributions as a Student Assistant for the Women’s Basketball Team, Social Media Student Worker, and an HSU Instagram Ambassador.  

Growing up she did not know what she wanted to do but was intrigued by the careers of embryology, Sports Media, and even counseling.  

After her senior year in high school, she decided to attend HSU since the small school atmosphere and close community seemed right for her. 

 Once on campus she decided to major in Communications, however she quickly realized that her calling was somewhere else.  

During the summer following her freshman year of college she was working as a lifeguard for her hometown community pool, where she met these kids that had a rough home life. 

She made it her mission to give them a great summer experience by giving them rides, paying their entrance fees, and providing them with a loving mentor.  

 Sayler emphasized, “Something just clicked for me that summer, and I knew I needed to be in a profession that could help others.”  

When she got back to campus during the fall she had an advising meeting with Dr. Stogsdill, where she ultimately decided that social work would be the best fit for her. 

Social Work at HSU 

The shift to Social Work provided the challenge that she was looking for and has helped her grow as a student and person.  

She shared that while the program has been tough, it’s one of the main reasons that she enjoys it.  

Dr. Cantrell and Mrs. Smith, who help run the social work program, create an environment that pushes students to their best ability.  

They do this by putting an extreme emphasis on preparing them for their future endeavors.  

“Although it seems tedious and hard to understand right now, I know there is so much reasoning behind it all,” said Sayler.  

This year she has been taking a policy course that has required her to pick a topic involving social work and prepare a presentation that she will present to legislators at the state capitol.  

“This junior year has been challenging as we start to prepare for our senior year, but I know these tough moments will pay off,” she further reiterated.   

Future Aspirations  

When asked about her career goals, Sayler stated that she “just wants to make a difference.”  

She hopes to be a successful Social Worker who is making a difference in many people’s lives, while also making strong connections within her community to be a familiar face that people can rely on.  

When asked where she sees herself in 10 years, she mentioned, “I can see myself staying in Abilene and starting my career here…. I see myself in a position where I am thriving, helping those who need it the most, and living a Christian-filled lifestyle.” 

She wants to be remembered most for helping others by providing insight and inspiration while also providing dependability to all in need.  

Advice to Social Work Administration Majors  

Sayler encourages aspiring social work majors to keep an open mind about the profession.  

“It is easy to feel overwhelmed, but just take it one step at a time, and you will succeed easily,” said Sayler. 

She went on further to express that “Once you complete the tasks that feel impossible, you will be super proud of yourself. It is a prayerful process, but it is so worth it.”  

Click here to discover educational tracks about the profession of social work at HSU.