Colleen is pursuing a master’s degree in social work at Walden University and currently works in suicide prevention. She was drawn to the program by being able to help others in so many capacities. She says, “The fact that you can go so many directions with social work and have so many options. My passion is focusing on behavioral health since there is such a need especially in Alaska.”

After completing her degree, Colleen is planning on getting her state licensing for social work and then the sky is the limit! The best study tip she has is to not procrastinate. She says, “I am busy with work and children that whenever I get a free minute is when I need to be getting school work done even if it is not quite due yet.” Outside of school, Colleen enjoys spending time with her children, puppy and the rest of her family over game or movie nights.

Of her MSHF scholarship, Colleen says, “This scholarship has helped me toward achieving my goals because without this, I would not be able to attend school. Alaska needs more social workers to help out in the community and it would not be possible without the Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship. Thank you so much for the generous help and believing in the work that we do!”

Interested in learning more about Mat-Su Health Foundation scholarship programs? Click here to register for an upcoming virtual MSHF Scholarship Info Session!