National Social Work Month Highlight: Danielle Doss

Ohio University Southern is helping celebrate this year’s Social Work Month in March with the theme “The Time is Right for Social Work” to highlight how social workers have enriched our society for more than a century and how their services continue be needed today.

We will be highlighting some of our Bachelor of Social Work graduates on social media to thank them for making our community a better place to live.

Danielle Doss

Degree: BSW 2021 (MSW, April 2022)

Job title: Therapist

Place of work: NECCO

What made you decide you wanted a career in social work? I choose a career in social work due to Frankie. Frankie was a school social worker I met during my 8th-grade year. The hallway was dark, and I’ll never forget the sign that hung on her door. It simply said Social Worker. Frankie allowed me to mend the broken pieces. She assisted in my transition from victim to survivor. Frankie valued me as a human and understood the importance of my existence. If I can be a Frankie to at least one person, I choose the right career. 

Why did you choose Ohio University Southern to pursue your degree? At Ohio University Southern, I am more than just a number. My professors know my name, my struggles, and most of all, my strengths. 

How did OHIO Southern prepare you for your career? Ohio University Southern prepared me for my career by providing real-world knowledge and experience. Southern’s campus and professors instilled the core ethical values of Social Work. Ohio University Southern expanded my knowledge base and delivered a rich history of social work in the curriculum.  

What do you enjoy most about your job? I enjoy watching people transition from a position of vulnerability to strength.

What advice would you give to students pursuing their degree in social work? Often the days are hard. The “thank yous” are few and far between. Live for the moments when you witness that light flicker in someone’s eyes. Embrace the moments when you see a win in someone’s life. Stick to the social work ethics and never be afraid to use your voice and education. Always remember why you choose the social work field.