[NFBF-L] One of our students is graduating with their bachelors degree!

Sat Apr 27 01:15:33 UTC 2024

 Lovely success storyMentorship develops the best in all   who are lucky enough to have a mentor
GO,  Z'LEAH

    On Friday, April 26, 2024 at 08:34:01 PM EDT, Miranda Kilby via NFBF-L <nfbf-l at nfbnet.org> wrote:   

Greetings members,

Is with great honor and privilege to share the below information. Z’Leah joined our organization during the pandemic years, when we had a virtual convention, where she was granted one of our student scholarships. I had the privilege that year of being her mentor, and since then our relationship has blossomed. She has shown growth in our organization and as an individual. Please see the below information that the university of South Florida, go bulls, is showcasing on their website. Congratulations Z’Leah on all your achievements and we wish you nothing but success and all your endeavors! 

Z'Leah Liburd

Bachelor of Social Work

Z’Leah Liburd is driven by a passion for service and leadership and she says that her journey in social work began with a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of those around her. As a transfer student from a smaller community college, Liburd is proud of graduating with high honors from USF.

“I embraced the rigorous class schedule in the School of Social Work, recognizing it as an opportunity for growth and academic excellence,” said Liburd. “I dedicated myself to my studies, pushing myself beyond my limits to meet the demands of university-level coursework, as well as joined clubs and participated in a number of school-based activities.”

Liburd, who lives with visual impairment, was determined to overcome any obstacles in her path, including adapting to a new school’s accommodations office.  

“I sought out the necessary resources and support systems available to ensure that I received the accommodations I needed to thrive academically,” said Liburd. “In the end, graduating with high honors from USF symbolizes more than just academic achievement; it represents my resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to success despite the obstacles I encountered along the way.”

Liburd has been involved in many organizations during her time as a student, including student government, honor societies, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Florida’s student division, and the National Association of Blind Students content creation committee. As a NFB delegate, she has spoken with legislators on Capitol Hill about bills impacting the blind. Liburd interned with the Children’s Home Network and now plans to work for the organization after graduation. She plans to continue her education in the Master of Social Work program at USF in spring 2025.

Hide  What was your favorite course in the program?

Multi-Methods of Social Work Practice I taught by Kerry Littlewood, PhD, MSW

“Dr. Littlewood's genuine care for her students made a significant difference in our learning experience. One of the aspects I particularly enjoyed about the course was the emphasis on small-group activities. These sessions allowed for more personalized attention and fostered a sense of camaraderie among classmates.

"The use of videos helped to illustrate concepts in a tangible way, making the material more accessible and engaging. Projects were another highlight of the course. They provided hands-on experience and allowed us to apply what we had learned in a practical setting. Dr. Littlewood's guidance throughout these projects was invaluable, as she not only encouraged creativity, but also provided constructive feedback to help us improve.

"Additionally, Dr. Littlewood's commitment to diversity and social justice was evident throughout the course. She ensured that we were equipped with the necessary skills to work with diverse populations, including those who are disadvantaged and oppressed."

Hide  What will you miss most about your time as a USF student?

“Aside from the rigorous, highly structured academic training I received, which prepared me for my chosen profession, there were also so many other moments of fun and spontaneity. From my unexpected election to the USF Homecoming Committee and numerous other extracurriculars, to special occasions for student-led community outreach, such as the Legislative Education and Advocacy Days through the School of Social Work, I never knew exactly what exciting and new opportunities awaited me.”

Hide  What advice would you give to a new student starting in your program?

“Time management is vital. If you have a mentor who’s gone through the program, their guidance and input will be invaluable. Also, communication with professors will keep you from falling behind and misunderstanding assignments.”

-- 
Miranda b. KilbyPh: (352)942-0417_______________________________________________
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