Meet Nataly Sanchez: 2021 BSW Intern of the Year

June 23, 2021
Nataly Sanchez 1

“Nataly represents so much of what we are talking about nationally in terms of health care workers on the front lines during COVID-19. She is an academically excellent student. Nataly managed the many challenges of COVID-19 in her placement with dedication, perseverance and excellent client care this year,” said a colleague of the 2021 BSW Intern of the Year: Nataly Sanchez.

Nataly said she chose social work because of her strong passion for community building as well as her goal to fighting human trafficking.

“One of my previous professors was so passionate in her work to fight against human trafficking in Waco. After having her for two courses and seeing her love for it in each class, I spoke to her about this shared interest,” Nataly said. “She encouraged me to learn more about social work and what it could do to work with this population. I didn’t know much about social work initially, but after taking one of the social work courses, I decided to switch my major because I found that this is the type of advocacy work I would like to pursue.”

This year, Nataly served as an intern at Baylor Scott & White - Hillcrest, and although it wasn’t necessarily easy, she said it was certainly rewarding. She said it taught her the importance of adaptability, being a professional, taking care of oneself and attention to details.

After graduation, Nataly, who is from Eagle Pass, Texas, plans to get married in the month of June, and pursue her MSW at the Garland School of Social Work and further deepen her roots in the Waco community.

“After this, I hope to stay in Waco and serve the Waco community through my work,” she said.

Congratulations, Nataly! The Waco community will only benefit from your compassion and hard work. #sicem