Brooke Schapiro

I pursued the Pathways program with HHS because of my strong commitment to public service and my social work passion. The mission of HHS, and ACF, aligns with my individual values of promoting a more equitable future for all people within the United States. My background is in State and Tribal Government work, therefore Pathways to Public Service was the next step in furthering my passion and knowledge in government service. I am enthusiastic in continuing to learn how to apply my Social Work skills towards policies and programs that promote social justice and improve community outcomes. 

The Pathways to Public Service internship affords me a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in policy development, program implementation, and community outreach. Being part of an organization dedicated to improving health and well-being nationwide is an invaluable experience. I am particularly excited about the opportunities to learn from experienced professionals who are engaging in meaningful projects, who share in my commitment to public service. 

Arizona State University prepared me with a foundation of knowledge to policy, administrative work, and community practice in the Social Work arena. Many do not recognize the stark connection between social work and government processes, and that social workers belong at all levels of organizations. The faculty at ASU offered me guidance and the assignments were all applicable to my work at ACF thus far. The skills obtained through my master’s degree have all been an asset to my work in the program. I am grateful for the close relation between my internship and my education.

Pathways have helped me significantly with navigating my federal career and my personal growth. I have been able to participate in many different trainings and interview a wide array of individuals from different operating divisions. I have participated in Strength Finders and a few other collaborative trainings that helped me better understand both myself and others. My mentor, Nicole Dobbins, has taught me a significant amount about Lived Experience integration in policy and provided individual projects to engage in the policy framework. Lived Experience was an entirely new concept to me but has become my most significant interest – one that I will undoubtedly advocate for and share throughout my career.