Story by Averee Marquez
Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in. – Brené Brown
This quote resonates strongly with graduating senior Tabitha Britt. A social work major at Colorado State University, Britt found that Brown’s connection to vulnerability, and its applicability to changing lives, is something she has been able to observe within her own life.
“I have worked to be more intentional in my actions and responses to my own shortcomings,” said Britt. “I will continue to make mistakes in my life, but I’ll always come out a better person for it. I choose to be all in.”
Finding a community at CSU
Raised in the quaint city of Seneca, Missouri, Britt observed first-hand the struggles faced by residents of this lower-income community. In Seneca her family experienced obstacles in regard to socioeconomic status, minimal education, health concerns, and addiction.
However, these challenges are some of the reasons why she found herself in the state of Colorado. To be closer to her father, who was living in Colorado and experiencing severe epilepsy, she decided to make Colorado the place she would call home and pursue her academic career.
During her first visit to CSU, Britt was immediately captivated by the sense of community found on campus, “The students went out of their way to show me kindness on campus,” Britt said.
Working with Campus Connections
As a student, her passion for helping others became a reality when she discovered social work. This drive led to her participation in the Campus Connections program.
A program where students dedicate time as mentors to youth, Campus Connections allowed Britt to serve as a coach, lead coach, intern, and she even prioritized the program within her thesis. Britt’s thesis incorporated the collaborations of faculty member, Jen Krafchick, an associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies.
“As a first-generation student,” said Britt. “I benefited from having Jen as a knowledgeable adult in my life that was always open to answer my questions and guide my thinking.”
“Tabi has been in my honors classes and extensively involved with Campus Connections,” said Krafchick. “She is a first generation student and has overcome tremendous challenges.”
“She was also nominated by her class to be the speaker at the BSW pinning ceremony,” Krafchick said. “Tabi is really an incredible person and has accomplished so much.”
Besides devoting her time to building genuine relationships, Britt thrived academically as a student. She is a two-time recipient of the Hoole/Sagen Scholarship in the School of Social Work.
After graduation, Britt plans to pursue her Master of Social Work at CSU. “I intend to move on to graduate school and get my MSW and certificate in school social work. I love working within a school system and want to use my social work skills to provide services within a school district.”
The School of Social Work is a part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
Read about more of the outstanding graduates in the College of Health and Human Sciences.
