After attending public schools, Rut Gonzalez always knew she wanted to attend an Adventist school, even though she was afraid she would not be accepted or could not afford it. From the encouragement of PUC Vice President of Alumni and Advancement Carlos Garcia to still apply, that conversation changed her life. Three weeks before classes started, Rut received her acceptance letter from PUC. “I trusted God, believing that if He wanted me to be at PUC, He would take care of everything,” she said. “The confidence he gave me and my trust in God are the reasons I am here today.”

Now, Rut is a junior social work student, who has grown a lot since joining PUC’s social work program. “Every quarter I learn something new, and each time I feel more convinced that this is what God wants me to do,” she said. “I continue learning how to interact with individuals, families, and organizations. Every class and every interaction helps me grow a little more each day.”

What inspired you to major in Social Work? What specific areas are you interested in? 

Before coming to PUC, I did not know what Social Work was. During my freshman year, I became friends with a senior Social Work student. She was very kind to me, invited me to sit with her, and took me to the food pantry. The way she treated people and talked about her major inspired me. When I learned more about Social Work, I realized I had always wanted to help people, even as a child. I just did not know there was a career like this. I am especially interested in becoming a community social worker, where I can support people by connecting them with resources and programs that help improve their lives. 

What do you value the most about PUC’s social work program? 

I am currently in the process of entering the Social Work program, and I know it will help me strengthen my skills and give me new ones for my future. The internship during my senior year will help me grow both personally and professionally. I know it will not always be easy, and there are many areas where I am still learning, but I trust that I will continue growing step by step with God’s help.

How do you receive support from your department? 

The Psychology and Social Work department supports me whenever I have questions about me career or about areas where I can grow. The professors are always willing to help and guide us. They also send notifications about opportunities to gain experience and about events that can benefit us in our future careers. 

What’s been the most rewarding experience in your field placements?

One of the most rewarding experiences in Social Work has been seeing other classmates who share the same passion for helping others. Each of us is interested in different areas, but we all have the same goal: to serve and support people using the skills and knowledge we are learning. It is very meaningful to grow alongside others who share the same heart for service. 

What self-care strategies have you learned to manage the stress of this field? 

I always try to start my day by putting myself in God’s hands and asking Him to give me strength mentally and physically. I also enjoy spending time alone and going for walks in nature. Being outside helps me recharge, reflect on my life, and find peace. 

How has studying at PUC benefited your education, future, and personal growth?

PUC has truly been a miracle and a big blessing in my life. Being here has helped me grow as a person, especially by learning a new language (English is not my first language) and meeting people who share my beliefs and values, as well as those who think differently. PUC has given me a new path, where I can see a future for myself. It has helped me overcome fears and given me opportunities, such as mission trips, that will benefit my professional career. 

What surprised you about your program? 

One thing that surprised me is that Social Work is not always recognized as much as it should be. Sometimes people have negative ideas about social workers, but as I continue in this major, I see how important and necessary this work is in our society. 

What class from your program have you taken that every student should take regardless of major? 

I believe every student should take Human Behavior. In this class, we learn about all stages of life, from pregnancy and childhood to adulthood and the final stages of life. We study how and why people change and the biological, psychological, and social factors that shape us at every stage. It helps us understand people better in every area of life. 

What advice do you have for students considering a social work degree? 

One piece of advice I would give to students considering a Social Work degree is that it is not only about helping people, but about walking with them during some of their hardest moments. In this career, you will grow as a person as you learn about different lives and experiences. There will be a lot of studying, reading, writing, and critical thinking, but you will not be alone. Your professors and classmates will support you throughout the process. 

Who has made a huge impact on your journey at PUC? 

Many people have impacted my life at PUC, but one person who has made a big difference is my counselor, Damaris Perez. Beyond helping me organize my classes and guide me in the Social Work program, she has been someone I can talk to about difficult situations and personal struggles. She is someone I can go to not only for advice but also for support and encouragement. 

What do you appreciate the most about being a part of the Pioneers community? 

What I appreciate most about being part of the Pioneers community is that, because it is a smaller campus, we can connect more closely with each other. We build community in church, events, and daily life. It feels like a close family, and it has become a special part of my life that I will never forget.