Meet one of our MSW Interns of the Year: Megan Jennings

The Garland School of Social Work proudly salutes the MSW Intern of the Year, Clinical Practice: Megan Jennings.

Megan is a dual-degree student from Rockford, Illinois, who began her Baylor career in 2012. She graduated is 2016 with a BA in religion, and then started her MDiv/MSW classes. She completed her coursework at Truett Seminary in the spring of 2018, and entered the MSW program in August. This month, she completed her educational journey.

Even though she majored in religion as an undergrad, it was during this time she realized she wanted to pursue an MSW.

“I minored in poverty and social justice as an undergrad which allowed me to take several courses in the School of Social Work and helped me realize I wanted to pursue my MSW,” Megan said. “I chose Baylor Social Work because of the unique dual-degree program with Truett Seminary, their Christian perspective and the prestige of the program.”

Megan sought a dual degree because she feels called to both occupational ministry and social work, and those two often work hand-in-hand. She said she “loves the way social work makes a lasting impact on both individuals and communities.”

Megan interned with the Waco ISD Homeless Outreach program and Restoring Justice in Houston. While at Waco ISD, she served homeless and unaccompanied students at University High School. It was here she realized just how much she enjoyed working with youth and in a school setting.

Her second field placement, Restoring Justice, is a faith-based nonprofit providing criminal indigent defense and wrap-around services for clients imprisoned in the Harris County Jail, caught in the cycle of mass incarceration.

“I learned so much from this placement because I was one of their first social work interns and was able to help develop what their social work services would look like as an organization,” Megan said. “I learned so much about a population that is so underserved, and I learned how big of an issue this is in our nation. I have absolutely loved both of my internships!”

Megan’s instructors are so proud of the work she has done at both placements but especially with Restoring Justice.

“Megan worked with a new agency to help build the social work role. She has educated and advocated so well for the continued growth for social services at the agency that they just recently hired a full-time social worker,” her instructor noted. “Megan is a creative social worker who was an active participant in problem solving for agency culture, client support, and the social service role within the agency.”

Congratulations, Megan!