Donna Tran, a graduate student from Garden City, Kansas, is currently pursuing her
Master of Social Work at Wichita State University. Alongside her studies, she balances
a practicum at United Way of the Plains and a part-time role at Comcare Crisis of
Sedgwick County as an Integrated Care Specialist. Donna aspires to become a Licensed
Master Social Worker, with a career centered on advocating for vulnerable populations
and helping individuals find strength in their own stories of resilience and growth.
Financial support from the Applied Learning Fund has played a significant role in
Donna’s academic and professional journey. “Receiving a scholarship through the Applied
Learning Fund has been a tremendous support, allowing me to focus on my practicum
and professional development without the added financial stress,” she said. The funding
has enabled her to immerse herself in essential hands-on learning experiences, reinforcing
her passion for advocacy and providing the resources she needs to prepare for a meaningful
career in social work.
Her experience at United Way of the Plains has offered a firsthand look at the intricacies
of community care and resource connection. As a Continuum of Care Intern, Donna plays
a vital role in linking individuals experiencing homelessness to essential services
and support systems. Her responsibilities include case conferencing, data entry, and
fieldwork alongside housing navigators. Through this position, Donna has worked closely
with a network of service providers and community advocates focused on improving housing
stability in the region.
The practicum has become a pivotal learning opportunity, allowing Donna to develop
practical skills she will carry into her future career. “This experience has deepened
my understanding of community resources and advocacy while strengthening my skills
in case management, collaboration, and policy-driven solutions,” she shared. Direct
involvement in service systems and case conferencing has taught her how to navigate
the often complicated pathways individuals face when seeking stable housing and support.
Among the many impactful moments during her time with the Continuum of Care team,
a few stand out. Donna reflected on participating in the annual Point-In-Time Count,
a community-wide effort to document and connect with individuals experiencing homelessness.
“It was meaningful to witness our community coming together to ensure that individuals
experiencing homelessness are heard and acknowledged,” she said. Another deeply rewarding
accomplishment involved helping to secure housing for a hospitalized individual in
need of long-term care. Facilitating a direct transition from medical care to a permanent
home, this effort helped prevent the individual from returning to homelessness and
reinforced the importance of timely, coordinated support.
Donna's applied learning experiences have given her a clearer perspective on the realities
of social work beyond the classroom. She noted, “This experience has reinforced the
complexities of social work and the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and
systemic advocacy.” It has exposed her to the tangible ways policies and resource
accessibility shape people’s lives, while also highlighting the resilience of those
she serves. The experience has strengthened her commitment to both direct service
and broader systemic change, deepening her dedication to advocating for long-term
solutions that foster community stability and well-being.
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 theShocker Career Acceleratorat (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visitwichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita
State campus.
