Not long ago, the idea of pursuing a master’s degree made Wichita State University Senior Kaydence Perdue uneasy. Now, as she nears the completion of her undergraduate degree and gains months of hands-on experience in local schools through her 400-hour social work practicum, that uncertainty has turned into confidence. 

For social work students at Wichita State, the practicum experience is a required, hands-on component of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program. It is designed to prepare students for the realities of professional practice, and places seniors directly into community agencies where they complete hundreds of supervised hours in the field. The experience grows students in commitment and adaptability and provides invaluable real-world learning beyond what they learn in a classroom. 

Perdue is currently completing her practicum with the PANDO Initiative. In this role, she provides resources and outreach to families within schools and facilitates school groups aimed at helping children socialize in constructive ways. 

“My responsibilities include fostering educational and inclusive environments for children and families in need,” she said. 

Perdue chose to pursue her BA in Social Work from Wichita State because of her love for children. Being placed with the PANDO Initiative for her practicum has given her the opportunity to see the inner workings of a school system and better understand how different environments affect students. She has learned how to communicate effectively with students, families, and school staff and how to adapt her approach depending on who she is working with. 

This first-hand experience has given Perdue a clearer picture of the realities of working in the social work field. Through her practicum, she has developed the ability to recognize when a student may be struggling and gained practical tools to support them within the school environment. 

“Working in a real-world environment has helped shape my perspective toward my future. I have always entertained the idea of becoming a school social worker, but the thought of completing a master’s program has admittedly given me some anxiety,” Perdue said. “This role has given me more confidence in pursuing higher education and only fueled my desire to work in a school even more.” 

Perdue also received an Applied Learning Fund award this year, which has allowed her to devote significant time and energy to her practicum. The funding eased financial pressures, enabling her to fully immerse herself in the experience and focus on developing professionally. 

“I have had the opportunity to work closely with the school social workers as well as the behavioral health specialist, and their jobs are so intriguing to me. I can definitely see myself in a position similar to theirs in the near future,” she said. 

Through dedication, hands-on experience, and support from Wichita State’s applied learning opportunities, Perdue is turning classroom knowledge into meaningful impact. As she prepares for graduation, her practicum has confirmed her passion for school social work and empowered her to take the next step toward earning her master’s degree and continuing to serve children and families in need.

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.