Joy Lang is a 2025 graduate of Colby-Sawyer College’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. The Memphis, Tennessee, native earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology at the University of Memphis in 2021 and started the MSW program in 2023. She currently works as a counselor at the Volunteer Comprehensive Treatment Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a medically supervised medication-assisted treatment center for adults recovering from addictions to heroin, prescription painkillers and other opioids.

The following is a lightly edited Q&A with Lang in which she reflects on her experience in the MSW program. 

Why was the Colby-Sawyer MSW program the right choice for you?

Colby-Sawyer was the right choice for me because of its supportive faculty and commitment to nurturing my educational growth throughout a nontraditional learning path. I appreciated how inclusive and engaging the program was, making me feel prioritized as a student. The MSW program aligned perfectly with my goal of working with marginalized communities, particularly youth and families impacted by systemic barriers, providing the practical skills and knowledge I needed to become an effective and empathetic social worker.

How did you grow as a scholar and person in the program?

Throughout the program, I discovered a renewed love for learning and personal growth. Despite having a gap between my undergraduate and graduate studies, the program was highly supportive and communicative, which helped me find and utilize my own voice. I now feel more confident in my clinical skills and understanding of what it truly means to be a social worker, empowered to impact the lives of those I work with while advocating for systemic change.

How would you describe your overall experience in the program?

My experience at Colby-Sawyer was transformative. A particularly defining moment was my internship with Behavioral Health Group, where I worked directly with individuals navigating complex challenges related to substance use. Courses such as Leadership, Management & Supervision; Addiction, Trauma & Mental Health; Multicultural Mental Health Practice; Social Welfare Policy and Practice with Children, Youth & Families provided me with a strong foundation for understanding systemic inequities and applying effective intervention strategies. Faculty and peers were invaluable throughout this journey, offering insights, and encouragement that strengthened my passion for social work.

What impact has your Colby-Sawyer MSW education had on your career and life?

The MSW program has prepared me to work confidently in diverse settings, advocating for clients at both individual and systemic levels. I currently work as a medical social worker, where I apply the knowledge and skills I gained in the program to support individuals navigating mental health concerns. This education has deepened my personal commitment to social justice, service and meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.

Anything else you'd like to add?

Colby-Sawyer provides not just an education, but also a true sense of community. Prospective students can expect a program that fosters personal growth, practical skills and professional development, with faculty and peers who are supportive and engaged. Employers can expect graduates who are knowledgeable, compassionate, adaptable and equipped to navigate the complexities of modern social work while making a tangible impact on the lives of clients.