News and Spotlights
Samantha Klokkert, '20, is featured in Alumni in 5
February 01, 2021
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