Finding Home: How One Rural Kentucky Student Discovered His Purpose in Social Work
| 4 Min Read
After earning degrees in psychology and public administration, Mount Sterling, Kentucky native Glenn Means spent years working in government, healthcare, and nonprofit roles. Through his diverse professional experiences, he realized that a career serving those in need was his true calling.
“It was a lightbulb moment that went off for me,” Glenn recalled. “How can I help others? How can I make a difference and make an impact?” That realization led him to the University of Kentucky online Master of Social Work program, where he’s building the foundation for his future doctoral studies while serving as Senior Academic Coordinator for UK’s Doctor of Social Work program.
Turning Personal Experience Into Professional Purpose
Growing up gay in rural Kentucky shaped Glenn’s understanding of the importance of access to mental health resources. His personal journey—marked by resilience and quiet advocacy—now fuels his drive to ensure underserved communities receive the affirming care they need. “I’ve always been very passionate about mental health,” he explained. “A lot of my work in the Lexington community has been with the LGBTQ population and many other marginalized groups.”
Glenn’s commitment to filling a need in rural areas drives his current academic pursuits. He is earning three certificates—Clinical Social Work, Substance Use Disorder, and Trauma-Responsive Practice—alongside his MSW. “I think trauma-informed care is one that really speaks to me as someone who has had past trauma in their life,” he said. “If we recognize that, we can really reach different populations of people.”
Flexible Learning That Fits Real Life
As a full-time worker deeply involved in his community, Glenn needed a program that could accommodate his schedule without sacrificing quality. The online MSW format delivered exactly that. “The online component with the Master of Social Work program has been an excellent experience for me,” Glenn shared. “I need something that is accessible. I need something that makes sense for my schedule.”
Even in a remote environment, Glenn forged strong connections with his peers and professors. Through group assignments, Zoom sessions, and ongoing peer communication, he created lasting relationships. “It’s been such a pleasant experience for me to be able to still build community with my classmates, faculty, and administration.”
Mentorship That Transforms
One of Glenn’s most meaningful experiences came through the Social Work Alumni Mentoring Program, which he joined to seek professional guidance but soon came to value for much more. “We still communicate all the time,” he said about his relationship with his mentor. “We’ve not only been a resource for each other, but we’ve built such a close connection that I consider her family.”
This relationship exemplifies how the program extends beyond coursework to create lasting support systems. “This program has really helped me build a community that I never thought I would have,” he said. “It’s helped me build lifelong connections through mentorship. It’s helped me grow as a person.”
Incredible faculty support and guidance have also been a big part of Glenn’s UK experience. One professor particularly stands out in his mind. “Dr. Lawrence made the extra effort to say, ‘I see you, I value you, I care about you,’” he recalled. “’I know that you’re going to make a difference in this field, so I want to make a difference with you.’”
Growing Through New Perspectives
The online social work graduate program has transformed how Glenn approaches both personal and professional interactions. “The College of Social Work has helped me grow personally by being able to understand different perspectives,” he explained. “It’s really changed my perspective and how I’d like to take a pause, take a beat, and process what someone’s telling me, what they need, and how to approach them with their needs.”
For someone considering the program, Glenn’s advice is simple: “Take a chance.” He emphasized the university’s role in his growth and the program’s dedication to student success. “The College of Social Work has helped me grow professionally, helping me know that I am on the right path.”
About the University of Kentucky Online Master of Social Work Program
The CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work program, offered in both hybrid and online formats, provides a dynamic combination of flexible online learning and comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare you for advanced practice. Available in both regular and advanced standing, this program amplifies your impact as a skilled, passionate social worker who can serve communities and individuals.
Benefit from the career-focused preparation gained by adding one of UK’s respected certificate options, including Clinical Social Work, Trauma-Responsive Practice, Child Welfare Practice, Military Behavioral Health, School Social Work, Rural Health and Wellbeing, or Substance Use Disorder. You can also design an individualized plan of study to align with your unique career goals.
Learn from supportive faculty who are dedicated to your future success as you build valuable, hands-on experience through a series of practicums guided by a knowledgeable professor. No matter what your social work aspirations, the University of Kentucky MSW program empowers you to drive positive change in your community.