Susan Massa (’80, ’94) a Colorado State University School of Social Work alumna, has had a long and fulfilling career in social work. Recently retired, she last served as a school counselor for Poudre School District working with elementary-aged children. Read on about Massa’s career and advice to future social workers.
Tell us a little more about your experiences in social work!
My journey as a social worker has taken me on a wild and wonderful ride. I have been retired for sixteen months now, most recently from Poudre School District where I worked the past six years. I worked at Lopez Elementary where I was employed as a school counselor and was able to teach social-emotional classes during the pandemic. It was an honor to see the many ways that staff, parents and students worked creatively to support one another. I was also employed at the Mountain Schools (Red Feather Lakes, Livermore and Stove Prairie) for three years and loved those tiny yet mighty schools and communities.
Why did you decide to pursue social work as a career path?
When I was in junior high I learned about Jane Addams and the Hull-House Settlement and thought how important this work was in affecting change in the world. Later that year I was asked to write a paper about what I’d like to do for a career, and I wrote about being a social worker. Although I changed my mind several times, I did earn my BSW in 1980 and my MSW in 1994 from CSU.
How have your education and experiences at CSU helped you in your career?
My education at CSU focused on approaching social work in a holistic manner and using a systems approach when working with clients. My first internship was at Catholic Community Services in Fort Collins. I visited Spanish-speaking elderly folks in their homes to connect them with resources and make sure they were receiving medical care. I loved the work and knew that I made the right career choice.
Are there any faculty or staff that made an impact on you and your career?
The social work faculty were fun, supportive of students, and approachable. Dr. Brad Sheafor and his wife invited me and three other students to stay at their home when we came to Fort Collins from Colorado Springs for the final year of our Master’s Program. And I have a lovely memory of learning how to make Tempura at another faculty member’s home.
What advice do you have for students looking to join your field?
My advice to social work students is to explore all the various options for work possibilities. I believe that social work offers so many possibilities that everyone can find their niche. You can switch to other areas when you need a change or are experiencing burnout or raising a family of your own. I have worked with expectant parents and babies, foster and adoptive families, hospice patients, all ages of students, done private therapy, and worked at a psychiatric hospital. Each and every experience was valuable. There is a huge need for you!
The School of Social Work is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
