News and Spotlights
Samantha Struppa, MSW '18, is featured in Alumni in 10
August 01, 2020
Title/Employer
Child care consultant, State of Michigan.
Degree Earned/Emphasis Area
MSW
1. What has your journey been since graduation?
After graduation, I accepted a position as a child care
consultant with the State of Michigan. I love being able to work with
children and helping to ensure they are safe while in care! I also
work part-time as an on-call sexual assault advocate where we respond
to the hospital and help support every survivor however we can.
2. How has Grand Valley had a role in your journey?
Grand Valley gave me the support I needed to earn my master's
degree and the confidence and knowledge to be an effective social
worker. The professors in this program made sure that I would
graduate, they are dedicated and passionate about helping students succeed!
3. What is your favorite Grand Valley memory?
My favorite memory was participating in the Laker Effect
Challenge for our capstone project. Our team helped to develop a
curriculum for a trauma-focused parent support group that we were all
proud of.
4. What three words describe your experience at Grand Valley?
Friendships. Dedication. Passion.
5. How, and why, have you stayed involved with Grand Valley
since graduation?
I've stayed up to date on the changes Grand Valley has made and
am now on the Young Alumni Council.
6. Why are you proud to be a Laker for a Lifetime?
I am so proud to be a Laker and to be a part of a University that
strives to ensure students have the right supports to succeed.
7. What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy spending time with my family, caring for our rescue
kitties, and my newest hobby, gardening!
8. What is your favorite quote/motto to live by?
Be the change you wish to see in the world.
9. What motivates you?
I am motivated by my community. I want to see improvement on
social injustices, safety for children and families and to work with
our community through an empathy lens.
10. What book or movie have you recently enjoyed?
I am currently reading My Grandmother's Hands. The last movie I
have seen was Boss Baby for our family Friday movie nights!
August 2020