Graduating Student Spotlight: Pam Twohill
Pam Twohill loves connecting with other humans, and that’s the core of her journey as a social worker. She was already a social worker for nearly two decades before she decided to pursue her Doctor of Social Work degree at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. Now, as she approaches graduation, Twohill reflects on her education journey.
Get to know more about Twohill as she shares her thoughts ahead of graduation.
Why social work?
Twohill: “I became a social worker about 20 years ago, and I think I knew that one of my biggest strengths was connecting to people. I've always enjoyed working directly with people in different settings, but the thread that's been consistent is that no matter what, you're seeing people’s vulnerabilities and getting to know people, learning people's stories.”
Where is your head at as you approach completing your DSW degree?
Twohill: “It still feels out of reach for me, and that’s something we’ve been saying all along because it's this doctoral degree that is lifelong. It doesn't feel quite real yet, but I think the biggest feeling I'm having as I'm approaching this graduation is just such a sense of, I think, relief combined with pride, combined with gratitude.”
Can you detail some of your experience in the field?
Twohill: “Most recently, I've worked at Advent Health Shawnee Mission in the mother-baby unit. I've been at Advent for almost seven years. Being patient-facing is extraordinarily rewarding, and we often say there are no two days that are exactly alike. Every time I go to work, I am graced with the opportunity to meet new people who are in different places in their lives. And I think it is such a cool honor to meet people where they're at and learn what's happening in their lives.”
What led you to pursue your DSW?
Twohill: “I felt I could do more of the things I was already doing, and I would be given the opportunity to learn how to meet people’s needs best. This combination of being able to be in people's lives in that way and then also really desiring to do it to the best of my ability so that the impact lands most appropriately. I would say I'm a learner by nature. Learning doesn't always come easily to me, but it's extremely rewarding for me. And I love a challenge.”
What has stood out about the DSW program?
Twohill: “Three things come to mind. Number one, the faculty has been incredible and extremely supportive, and every faculty member that we've had along the way in each course offered something different. The second thing I would say is the community of people that I've met while in the program. I have been really lucky to be in a cohort that is just an amazing group of people. The last thing I would say is that it's just been such a challenge. It's not been the easiest path to walk, but there's a lot of reward that comes with that, and I feel like we're just starting to see the end of the tunnel, and it's rapidly approaching.”
What advice do you have for anyone considering a DSW?
Twohill: “First and foremost, expect to be challenged and accept that as a baseline. There's this element of radical acceptance that this is going to be really hard. And then once you have, you're kind of wrapped into that. You've managed your expectation that it's going to take a lot of time.
“If you are great with time management and you're motivated to be here, you're going to do great, and the faculty is extraordinarily supportive. They want to make the degree achievable for all of us. Also, I have an incredible family who has had so much grace and understanding for the time I have taken away from them. My husband and three daughters have gotten used to seeing me behind my laptop and have offered me so much support and understanding. I never could have done this without that from them.”