UT Social Work welcomed four social workers to speak to students about their social work experiences during Day in the Life of a Social Worker, an event presented by the DiNitto Career Center.
Moderated by Erin Cantrell, director of the DiNitto Center and alumni relations at UT Social Work, the event featured social workers Temmi Merlis, a hospice social worker; Savannah Lee, a legislative director; Don Collier (‘MSSW 21), a clinical therapist; and Al Benedict (MSSW ’25), a probate court guardianship coordinator, on the panel.
“A critical part of early career exploration is connecting with the lived experiences of practicing professionals,” said Cantrell. “Today, we welcomed four amazing social work professionals from diverse areas of the field to share their authentic journeys. These conversations create invaluable learning experiences that provide both validation and direction as students chart their paths forward in social work.”
Over the course of an hour, the social workers answered questions from Cantrell and from students about their experiences in social work. Topics addressed career advice, best practice recommendations, burnout prevention, self-care, and lessons learned on caring for clients in social work settings.
“Self-care looks like community,” said Merlis. “What we do is super serious, and this work can catch you if you’re not careful. Being with family, loving my dog, and elevating other parts of my life all make me a better social worker.”
Merlis echoed the thoughts of Savannah Lee, who advised students that building relationships is one of the most important roles of a social worker.
“Every job I’ve had, it was because I knew someone or learned something from the last job,” Lee said. “Building relationships is important because you don’t know where life takes you next.”
The panel agreed that things aren’t always linear for a starting social worker. They emphasized that students should remain open and flexible, to options, and that social workers are encouraged to explore different domains in their career.
“The only bad mistake is the one you don’t learn from — and we’re always going to be learning,” said Benedict. “And remember, we’re all stronger with you than without you.”
Collier noted that clients are also stronger with social workers, regardless of setting, and that caring for the self deeply matters in caring for others.
“I’m a one-man band, which means I still have to show up for those I help,” he said. “You absolutely have to take care of yourself to help others.”