Hailee Hamilton
As she prepares to graduate in May 2026, Western Michigan University senior Hailee Hamilton is already applying the principles of social work in real-world settings, building a foundation for a career focused on addiction recovery and client advocacy.
Hamilton, a social work major pursuing her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), has spent the past year interning at a recovery treatment center, where she has developed skills in client support, case management and trauma-informed care. The hands-on experience, she said, has been the most valuable part of her education.
“Watching people come into the recovery center and go out as completely changed has been an amazing and rewarding experience,” Hamilton said. “I’ve learned so much from the clients I’ve interacted with and built rapport with many of them.”
Her internship has allowed her to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice. Through her work, Hamilton has gained experience facilitating group sessions and conducting intake assessments. She says she was able to take on these responsibilities with confidence thanks to support from her supervisor and field liaison.
Hamilton said her decision to pursue social work stems from a longstanding passion for helping others and advocating for individuals facing difficult circumstances.
“I have always had a passion for advocating on behalf of people who cannot for themselves or need additional support,” she said.
As a first-generation college student, Hamilton has navigated financial and personal challenges throughout her academic journey. She credits the social work program for providing consistent support, from helping her secure scholarships to offering flexibility through online coursework.
“I’ve relied heavily on federal grants, scholarships and working full-time to make it through my college education,” she said. “My advisor and professors have encouraged me to keep going, even during some of the most challenging times in my life.”
Hamilton said the relationships she has built with faculty and peers have been one of the most meaningful aspects of her experience at Western.
“My favorite part has been the connections I’ve made,” she said. “I’ve always felt supported and able to reach out when I needed help.”
After earning her BSW, Hamilton plans to continue her education in Western’s advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) program beginning in July 2026, where she will pursue an addiction specialization certificate. She also hopes to continue working in the field, with a long-term goal of opening her own private practice focused on substance use recovery.
“I want to help people in their recovery and be a support system for those who need it most,” she said.
Hamilton encourages prospective students to consider Western Michigan University’s College of Health and Human Services, particularly for its supportive environment and flexible learning options.
“The staff is always supportive and willing to help,” she said. “Western made it a seamless process to continue my education online while still gaining the skills I needed to become a competent social worker.”