MSW Student Ambassadors Wurzweiler School of Social Work Meet the MSW student ambassadors at Wurzweiler School of Social Work, . Learn from their experiences and insights. Artificial Intelligence Biotechnology Computer Science Cybersecurity Data Analytics and Visualization Digital Marketing and Media Mathematics Occupational Therapy Physician Assistant Physics Speech-Language Pathology The Student Ambassador Program connects current students with newly admitted and prospective students to share their first-hand experiences throughout our various MSW program formats. Our ambassadors can provide insight on faculty/student dynamics, field placement opportunities, and resources to help students succeed. Interested in speaking with an MSW student ambassador? Contact our Graduate Admissions Office: Email: gradschool@yu.edu Phone: 646.592.4745 Text: 929.531.6013 Madeline Nelkin, MSW '25 My name is Madeline Nelkin. I am a second year MSW student at Wurzweiler, expecting to graduate in May 2025 with a concentration in Advanced Clinical Practice and a certificate in School Social Work Practice. I am passionate about supporting children and families, having gained valuable experience through my internships at both a NYC public high school and a substance-use treatment center. I look forward to leveraging my skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve. Alexandra Klesin, MSW '25 Live Virtual Classroom ProgramMy name is Alexandra Klesin, but I go by Alex. I was born and raised in Queens, NY, but I currently reside in Manhattan. I’m a second-year full-time MSW student at Wurzweiler School of Social Work. I’m expected to graduate in May of 2025 with an advanced certificate in Trauma Informed Practice. For my entire graduate program, I’ve attended WSSW’s live virtual online classes. However, both of my practicum experiences have been in person. My first year field placement was completed at Innovation Diploma Plus High School on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. I learned the roles and responsibilities of a school social worker, specifically supporting students in crisis and implementing group social emotional learning (SEL) programs. My second year field placement is with NYC Health + Hospitals, Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx, NY. I currently work with children and adolescents from 0-18 who have been admitted into the inpatient pediatrics unit (including pediatric and neonatal intensive care units). My role is to ensure my clients are socially cleared for discharge, while also offering support, advocacy, and referrals for clients and their family members. I also work full-time at Child Mind Institute as a research projects coordinator. I have worked within the mental health field for over five years now, specifically in child and adolescent mental health. I wish to continue serving this population in the future. From a research lens, I also desire to learn more about the intersectionality of adolescent mental health and our school system(s) and how social workers can contribute to bettering students’ experiences. Shelby Ochshorn, MSW '25 Ontario, Canada | MSW Live Virtual/Traditional On-Campus ProgramMy name is Shelby Ochshorn, and I am currently in my second year of my MSW at the Wurzweiler School of Social Work with a Specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice. I will be graduating from the program in May 2025. I am completing a trauma-informed practice certificate, enhanced by my courses and practicum. Based in Toronto, I have had the privilege of completing two enriching practicum experiences in my community. Currently, I am placed at JACS Toronto, where I provide therapeutic support to individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges, facilitate group therapy sessions, and deliver psychoeducational presentations to youth across Ontario. My first practicum was at Peel Children’s Aid Society, where I concentrated on child protection, performing comprehensive risk and safety assessments. I also had the opportunity to take in-person classes in New York City this past summer, which was an unforgettable highlight of the flexibility of Wurzweiler's MSW. I am passionate about expanding accessible mental health services for youth, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, and promoting wellness for young people and families. My goals include combining clinical practice with policy advocacy to improve access to mental health services tailored to young people, empowering them to thrive. Juan Guzman, MSW '25 Queens, NYC | MSW Live Virtual/Traditional On-Campus ProgramI am a second-year MSW student at the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, set to graduate in May 2025. I currently work as a Child Protective Specialist with the (ACS), supporting the protection and well-being of NYC's children, youth, and families. After graduation, I plan to pursue training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and work toward my credential to broaden my impact in social work. My goal is to provide compassionate, effective support that helps individuals and families heal and prosper. Taaliba Speede-Ince, MSW'24 Brooklyn, NY | MSW Live Virtual/Traditional On-Campus Program My name is Taaliba Speede-Ince, and I am a second-year MSW student with a Specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice. I am scheduled to graduate in May 2024. I am currently working with children and families who come into contact with the child welfare system, specifically foster care. In addition, my field placement entails working with youth who have experienced foster care. I have been working with children and families from all sections of society for over ten years. I'm passionate about my work, making a difference, creating equal opportunities, and advocating for those who are in difficult circumstances. I am a hard-working, resourceful, and driven individual who isn't afraid to face a challenge. I further describe myself as an open-minded, resilient, supportive, and honest person who doesn't believe in misleading other people and try to be fair in everything I do.
