Alumni Spotlights

Samantha Klokkert '20

Samantha Klokkert '20

Employer
Children's Advocacy Center of Kent County/Family Advocate

1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Prior to graduating with my Master's in Social Work, I was offered a position as a Family Advocate at the Children's Advocacy Center of Kent County. Starting a new role in the midst of COVID-19 certainly made for a unique and somewhat challenging experience, but I have been so grateful for my education in teaching me the value of adapting. I have been working at the CAC since May 2020 and acclimating to my role and team as we've slowly returned to the office following many hours of working from home.

2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
Because our graduation and social work hooding and pinning ceremonies were canceled due to COVID-19, my favorite memory would have to be our virtual celebration and Zoom toast in the social work department.

3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best piece of advice I have ever received is that it is okay to grow as you go. I tend to be an all or nothing thinker, so this advice helps me to give myself grace when I make a mistake and remember that one wrong turn does not mean it's time to throw in the towel.

4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand Valley experience.
Unprecedented, impactful, and speedy!

5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I would like for the clients and colleagues that I work with to remember me as someone who helped them to feel seen, heard, validated, and important.

February 2021

Interest Area(s)
Social Work

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Page last modified February 9, 2021