Hello, my name is Jailyn. I’m Dominican, and my sisters and I are also first-generation college students. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's in Social Work at Rutgers University. I am interested in working with immigrants, victims of domestic violence, and those experiencing poverty and homelessness. I hope to return to Rutgers to earn my Master's in Social Work and make a lasting impact in my community!

I am currently working at a group home for adults with developmental disabilities and volunteer at the Rutgers Office of Violence Prevention and Victim Assistance.  

During my time at the group home and in previous internships, I have learned the importance of having patience with yourself in reaching your goals. It can be frustrating to work towards a goal and feel like you’re not making progress. I want to remind the students of More Than Bootstraps who are learning first-hand the challenges that can arise for first-generation college students: Remember to be patient with yourself and that you have a great group of supportive fellows, leaders, and family members around you to help you along your way to where you want to go!

Hello! My name is Anu. I’m in my last year of the Rutgers School of Social Work Dual Degree Masters Program with Criminal Justice! My concentrations are in Clinical Social Work, Mental Health & Prevention, and Criminology. I aim to be a School Social Worker or Global Social Worker someday!

I am a first-generation Indian student, and while I thankfully had strong support systems growing up, I still faced a lot of struggles and confusion on how to navigate the educational system and what I could be when I grew up. As a minority, it felt like so many avenues were closed to me, but because of those who helped and supported me, I came across Social Work and Criminal Justice. I wanted to help those like me or in similar positions, give them the support they may need or resources that could help them, and help them realize that they can reach their goals and dreams. It is through Rutgers and this internship that my understanding of social work has deepened. There are so many ways to be a social worker, and I cannot wait to find my path! 

Outside of school and social work, you can find me in my various hobbies: embroidery, dance/vocal classes, art, reading books, watching anime/animated movies, and listening to music (especially Kpop and Jpop)! My favorite thing is to curl up with a good book and my little dog by my side! It's wonderful to meet everyone, and I cannot wait to see what awaits us ahead! Please do not hesitate to reach out!