When it comes to figuring out what you want to do with the rest of your life, uncertainty is ok. The wise words of Clinical IPE Program Manager Kristi Andreski Price ring true for many students. After earning a bachelor’s degree in International Development and African Studies from The George Washington University, Price found most of the work she was doing was far removed from the actual people impacted. To have a more direct impact, Price took a position in a youth shelter and was introduced to the world of macro social work. She went on to earn her MSW from Wayne State and has now returned to tackle a new position supporting interprofessional education efforts in the School of Social Work.

Why did you choose to work at WSU?

Ever since I was a student in the MSW Program, I wanted to come back and work here. The ability to work downtown, with students, writing grants and working on projects that directly impact the local population…that’s the dream. Truly, after a brief hiatus I’m so glad to be back at Wayne State.

What are you most looking forward to in the new IPE position? 

This is a new position at the School so that’s really exciting! My previous work with Associate Professor Suzanne Brown and the Trauma Informed Integrated Healthcare-Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Grant (BHWET) was all about interprofessional education and integrating behavioral and physical health so I’m really excited for all the projects that this role will be coordinating. It doesn’t make any sense for disciplines to work in silos and that’s what these projects will really highlight- that interdisciplinary work is the way forward. Additionally, I am excited to serve as an IPE Faculty Champions in the Michigan Area Health Education Center (MI-AHEC) Scholars Program - it is a perfect extension of my work in the School!

How do you empower social change in your community? 

I was raised in a politically active household so I’m always working on local campaigns, voter registration drives, things like that. As the poster in my daughter’s room says, “This is your world. Shape it or someone else will.”

What's one of the biggest mistakes you made as a student? 

I was really bad at procrastinating as a student. I teach FYE 1010 now and explain to students why this is a really bad practice!

Do you have any advice for graduating students and alumni? 

Advocate for the value of social work even in nontraditional social work settings! There’s so much value a social work education can bring to any position, don’t limit yourself to what people think is “typical social work.” For a couple years I worked in student affairs and student conduct at another university and you know what skills I used all the time? Case management and mini biopsychosocial assessments. There’s social work practice everywhere and if you’re passionate about something I bet that you can find a place for social work there.

What is one interesting thing that others may not know about you?

My husband and I are trying to visit all of the breweries in Michigan. We’re also trying to take our daughter to all the Michigan state parks and eventually US national parks. 

 

View more Social Work Warrior profiles.