03/25/2026
We’re celebrating Social Work Month by featuring social work student Erika Cabrera!
💚What does social work mean to you?
To me, Social Work is a helping profession that is intentional in understanding each person’s unique experiences. As a first-generation student, a woman of color, and the daughter of immigrant parents from Michoacan, I carry with me the history, sacrifices, and resilience of my family and community.
💛What communities do you hope to impact through your degree and what impacts do you hope to have?
I faced a lot of adversity as an adolescent, and I often think about my school social worker who supported me through that time. It’s one of many experiences that have shaped me and helped me think about how to show up thoughtfully and respectfully as an advocate and ally for others. At the center of every case is a person, a family, and their lived experience. I am pursuing social work to become a Children’s Advocate, focusing on supporting families and children affected by separation and systemic barriers.
💚What do you love most about studying social work at CSU?
This graduate program is offered in a hybrid, asynchronous format. I am a mom, wife, working full-time, with a toddler and a growing family. I was intentional about choosing a program that felt supportive. There are a few parents in the cohort who are also raising little ones, and it’s been nice going through this journey together. I value how the program is designed to support individuals at different stages of their lives. That was a big factor in my decision to apply.
💛Can you share a bit about your previous work or community experiences related to your social work journey?
I worked in Immigration Advocacy, first as a paralegal preparing family-based cases, then as a Constituent Advocate, offering support to constituents across Colorado who were having difficulties with cases pending with federal agencies. I understood the fear and uncertainty many families experienced throughout their process and focused on doing outreach in communities with a strong Spanish-speaking presence. In college, I focused on supporting first-generation students through mentorship.