Things may not always go as planned, sometimes life works in other ways. But even though things are sometimes delayed, do not let that deny you of the things you want.
School was always somewhat of a challenge for Emily Aronson, G’25. Because of this, she experienced a lack of confidence.
“I’m not a good test taker, I struggle with time management and have a hard time studying,” Aronson said.
Despite the obstacles, she was able to persevere and earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from another university in 2014. She thought that was the end of her academic journey. But then came the COVID-19 pandemic. The forced isolation gave her time to reflect.
“Like a lot of people, I found that time to be depressing, but it created a space for me to think more in depth about what I wanted to do,” Aronson said.
Her experience helping to support a loved one with addiction left her with a strong desire to help others. Because of this, a career in social work was appealing, but given her previous educational experience, she wasn’t confident enough to take the leap.
Still, a voice inside her head told her to seek out options, and she discovered the master’s in social work program at Bridgewater State University. Nervous, she filled out the application and waited.
When the day came that she learned of her acceptance, it was life changing.
“I was like, this is it! I can create an entire life for myself. It really boosted my confidence. For the first time I thought, I can really do this,” Aronson said.
The journey to the commencement stage wasn’t always easy. The initial plan was to graduate within three years of enrolling, but it took a little longer than expected. As a working professional, trying to juggle it all was difficult at times, including an internship that didn’t pan out.
“But looking back, having to leave that internship was a blessing in disguise. Even though it didn’t work out, I still walked away with knowledge. Nothing you do is never really a waste of time,” Aronson said.
The support received from her BSU professors also helped guide her, especially on days when she questioned herself.
“I’m usually an introvert, a reserved person, but the small class sizes allowed me to engage. The professors really get to know you and I was able to get out of my comfort zone,” Aronson said.
Having the right support, paired with her determination paid off. This past May she earned her master’s degree in social work from BSU and currently works as a behavioral health counselor at the Boston Medical Center, Clinical Stabilization Services in Brockton.
“For so long, I really felt lost but knew I wanted to help others,” Aronson said. “For so long I pushed myself down, and didn’t think I could do this, I settled for less.”
And even though things felt out-of-reach at times, the newly minted BSU graduate said all the doubts and triumphs help her to better relate to those she now supports.
“Things may not always go as planned, sometimes life works in other ways,” she said. “But even though things are sometimes delayed, do not let that deny you of the things you want.”
Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu