How DaShanna Johnson Expanded Her Community Impact With an Online DSW Program
| 4 Min Read
For DaShanna Johnson, the decision to pursue a Doctor of Social Work online was about more than improving her career opportunities: She hoped to amplify her voice to create lasting change. “I wanted to be able to enhance my ability to impact not only my community but my city, my state, [and] the world on a different level,” she said.
As a licensed clinical social worker focusing on adolescents in the juvenile justice system, DaShanna possesses firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing vulnerable youth. “Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I saw a lot, I witnessed a lot,” she said. Her experiences sparked her desire to attend law school, but DaShanna’s goals changed after working at a homeless shelter. “I transitioned to social work,” she said. “I wanted to do something to improve my community.”
Flexible Online Learning for Working Professionals
DaShanna was initially drawn to the online DSW program at the University of Kentucky for its flexibility and the freedom to pursue dual concentrations in administrative leadership and clinical social work. She also was impressed by the supportive learning environment. “They offer mental health and counseling services for those who need them,” said DaShanna. “I think the program has a lot to offer.”
Another big advantage for her was the program’s asynchronous format, which made it easier to juggle professional and academic responsibilities while still maintaining time for her family. “I know if I’m balanced, then I can be effective,” she said. “I keep a schedule. I try to prioritize to ensure that I incorporate some time for myself.”
Building Connections and Practical Skills
DaShanna found meaningful ways to collaborate with classmates and faculty in both online and face-to-face environments. As chairperson of UK’s in-person Residency Week, she helped foster community among students. “We’re able to build connections through different platforms,” she noted. “Even when we’re in different states.”
Interacting with faculty has been another highlight of the program. “I’ve had really good experiences with my professors,” DaShanna said. “I made it a point to go to office hours and develop a relationship with them. They were really supportive throughout my two years here.”
The program’s emphasis on practical expertise immediately benefited DaShanna’s work. She gained experience with program assessment strategies that allowed her to help those in need. “Being able to put the program evaluation in place to build my own nonprofit organization. The program gave me the tools and knowledge to be able to do that,” she said.
Overcoming Challenges With Support
DaShanna’s path to earning her DSW required an adjustment period. “The biggest challenge that I faced while in the program was being online in the beginning,” she admitted. The built-in UK support system helped her persevere. “I had an assigned mentor that I met with monthly,” she said. “We could discuss anything, whether it was professional or personal development or training.”
As the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, and soon a doctorate, DaShanna’s achievement represents a shared victory. Looking ahead to graduation, she anticipates a big celebration with her loved ones. “I had a lot of support,” DaShanna said. “I’m going to be so excited. Congratulations to me—congratulations to my family—because we did this as a joint effort.”
To prospective students, DaShanna offers some wise advice on finding the right mindset for success. “[Come] in knowing that it is a lot—it is rigorous—but you’ll get through it,” she said. “[Be] committed to getting through the program. [Make] sure you’re connecting with others, being organized, prioritizing, and just being open.”
About the Online Doctor of Social Work Program at the University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky’s Doctorate of Social Work online program prepares you for advanced practice through a flexible, asynchronous learning environment. Align your studies with your unique career goals by choosing from concentrations in administrative leadership, clinical social work, military behavioral health, social work education, and sport social work. Each of these dynamic, affordable options are taught by expert faculty who eagerly share their insight into the day-to-day responsibilities and realities of skilled social work practitioners.
Benefit from the experience gained through an embedded capstone project that empowers you with the specialized expertise to thrive in modern social work settings. Whether you aspire to advanced research opportunities, social work leadership, or clinical roles, a respected DSW online program from the University of Kentucky represents a major step toward rewarding, high-level careers.
At UK, our supportive staff help connect you with options for funding your education—ranging from federal loans to scholarships to military benefits—so you can focus on your academic and professional development. Upon completion of the online DSW program, you’ll gain access to an alumni network of highly qualified social work graduates who can expand your professional connections, share their knowledge of industry trends, or help you discover opportunities for leadership roles in this rapidly growing field.
Fast Track Your Path to Advancement With an Online DSW From UK
Learn more about the career-defining Online Doctorate in Social Work program at the University of Kentucky. If you are interested in working with specific patient populations or pursuing a specialized industry role, our diverse selection of DSW concentrations are designed to move your career forward.