Lizzie Carlson-Thompson, BSW
Outstanding AFI - Questions
What degree(s) do you have, and where did you earn it (them)?
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Montana and later obtained a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Wyoming.
What is your current role at your organization?
I am a Family Advocate at Rocky Head Start in Helena. Family Advocates are a support and resource guide for parents as well as a link between Head Start and community agencies.
How did you come to work at your organization?
Our youngest son was enrolled at Head Start. While he was attending, I began working there as an assistant to the Head Start nurse. The family services supervisor learned I had a degree in social work and encouraged me to apply for the family advocate position when it opened. I was hired and was a family advocate for several years.
During this time, I was juggling being a family advocate, which I loved, with a long-term goal of becoming a speech therapist through a distance master’s degree program. I eventually earned my degree in speech and worked in the school district for a few years, but my heart was back in Head Start. I returned to Head Start and eventually was a family advocate once again. I have truly enjoyed my time in Head Start and working with our families, community members, and staff.
What do you appreciate most about supervising practicum students?
Supervising practicum students makes me reflect on what I’m doing and why; it keeps me thinking. It is also a chance to pass the baton, so to speak, to other social workers as they start. I found myself thinking, “What do I wish I had known when I was fresh out of college?”
What does being a social worker mean to you?
I felt that being a social worker was one way I could live out my faith as a Christian, to serve others and walk alongside folks. It is a vocation that allows one to connect with many people and to learn from each other.
How does your role as a social worker relate to your role as a supervisor?
Being a social worker and supervisor both involve coaching, support, encouragement, and wanting others to reach their goals and aims.
What is the most important thing you hope your practicum students take with them into their careers?
I hope our practicum students know it is ok to ask for help from others, that its ok to make mistakes, and most importantly, to be compassionate towards others.
What is your favorite quote that exemplifies social work?
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” William James
Any final words of wisdom?
I would remind new graduates that it will take time to gain confidence in your skills and abilities. Allow yourself time to grow into your profession, and don’t expect to know everything you need all at once. Keep on learning and be patient with yourself.