Brooke Rodriguez, LLMSW has been working for the School of Social Work since 2016 as the Evaluation Manager for the Michigan Youth Treatment Improvement and Enhancement Grant (MYTIE). Brooke works closely with the MYTIE Principal Investigator, Elizabeth Agius, to evaluate measures and data collection methods for youth prevention and youth treatment methods to help inform best practices. This is not the first experience Brooke has with Wayne State; she is also an alumnus, having earned her MSW in 2018.

Why did you choose to work at WSU?

WSU offered access to a city rich in culture and opportunity. The School is progressive and flexible, a community of advocates that I absolutely wanted to be a part of.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I have many things I love about my job but my favorite thing is the professional growth and experience I have gained through my work. I have made many professional connections and advanced my skills in many ways.

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

As a student I did not get involved in many on campus activities due to working full time throughout my academic career. In hindsight I wish I would have had more time to engage with the Warrior community.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

There are many opportunities at WSU including the School of Social Work. Branch out and make connections. You never know where you will end up.

How can students learn more about research opportunities in the School?

The School has two Centers with faculty, staff and students dedicated to research, the Center for Social Work Research and the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice. In 2010 we developed the Social Work Student Research Community, which was specifically designed to provide opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty on current research projects, attend professional development events and have access to online resources that guide them through the research process. Students interested in learning more can self-enroll in the SWSRC Canvas site or they can contact Kendra Wells at kendrajwells@wayne.edu.

View more Social Work Warrior profiles.