2022 Champions for Change BSW Student Spotlight: Talynn Johnson
By Diandre Glover Thomas
Talynn Johnson, a Senior BSW student from Hopkinsville, KY chose to study social work because she wanted to leave an impact on children. “I watched a show called “Girls Incarcerated” on Netflix, and the girls talked about how their social worker made a huge difference on their lives. It was then that I looked more into social work as a profession. It has been through my classes, that I have discovered my heart for helping, and social work requires the heart to help and serve vulnerable populations.”
In her free time Johnson enjoys journaling and spending time with family. However, the Senior is actively involved in her studies and extracurricular activities at the University. Talynn is a Woodford Porter Scholar, J. Blaine Hudson Scholar, Public Child Welfare Certification Program (PCWCP) participant, parliamentarian of C.O.N.E.C.T Peer Mentoring, social chair of the Kent School Student Association (KSSA), and public relations chair of Saving Our Students campus ministry (SOS). During her time as a Kent student, she has found her social work classes to be very interesting. Her favorite class so far has been SW 202-Family Relationships taught by Tina Johnson. “I had the class during the Spring semester of my sophomore year. I was able to absorb and learn so much from the class that I was even incorporating material into my everyday life and relationships. Not only was the class full of useful curriculum, but Mrs. Johnson was a personable professor who really engaged with her students. She made the class enjoyable and worth every second!”
Johnson’s anticipated graduation date is May 2022. After graduation, she will be seeking employment with the Department of Community Based Services as a Social Services Worker. “Part of the PCWCP program allows for me to train and seek employment with DCBS agencies across Kentucky after graduation. Following my time with the cabinet, I aspire to work in the school system as a school social worker to work closely with students and their educational journey.”
When asked if she had any advice for students considering studying social work, Talynn said “If you are thinking about social work as a major, be intentional with your learning. Social work is a profession that requires constant self-reflection and self-assessment. With the amazing support of Kent School professors and faculty, you can be the social worker you want to be with indulging yourself in the learning process. If you learn, absorb, and grow within yourself, then the possibilities are endless when working with individuals, families, communities, and systems.”
Become a Champion for Change!
We are challenging all our Kent School community of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends to make a gift of $19.36 in support of a Kent scholarship fund of their choice to honor our school’s rich and accomplished history, while supporting the educational pursuits of future social workers and therapists for years to come! Make a gift today! https://louisville.scalefunder.com/gday/giving-day/52028