First-generation Student Spotlight: Courtney Franz

Growing up, Courtney Franz wasn’t aware of the resources available to her. She said she could’ve had support during difficult times, and it was frustrating to learn that as an adult.

At the core of Franz's career aspiration is her desire to help others. She doesn’t want people in similar positions to feel that same isolation.

That led her to social work.

“I want people to be seen,” said Franz, a Master of Social Work student in the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare.

Franz, from Olathe, was a teacher for 23 years and wanted to do more to help the kids she was serving -- specifically at-risk groups. Franz understands the tribulations some families go through. She is a first-generation college student for her family and her journey to an MSW degree requires support.

Franz is a survivor of domestic violence, she said, and ended up in a position where she and her children were abandoned and financially struggling, so she understands the barriers that can get in the way of people’s journey.

Vocational rehab was a crucial system that helped Franz get support since she didn’t have many resources from family. That helped open her eyes to how much of an impact social workers can have.

“Once I learned about vocational rehab, I signed up right away,” Franz said. “I don’t ever feel like it’s too late to get a degree, and this brought me to the place I am today. I am grateful for programs like that.”

KU’s program stood out to Franz for a variety of reasons, including her proximity to the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park. The feel of a smaller, tight-knit group in her MSW classes was a good fit.

Franz also always loved KU, she said. Her experiences in the MSW program so far include professional and friendly environments and an atmosphere that makes her comfortable.

“I’ve had nothing but great experiences with the people being professional and friendly,” Franz said. “Everyone is eager to help you learn the industry.”

The goal for Franz is to become a therapist. She says her ability to listen in a fast-paced world, as well as her empathy, prepares her for that.

“I’m a lifelong learner, and I’m always interested in discovering things,” Franz said. “Higher education means financial stability in my future and that I can have a background that is well-trained in something I want to do.”