By Samantha Wirth

As Nick Grober finished his Associate of Arts at Kirkwood Community College in the spring of 2024, he began to think about his next academic steps. With encouragement from his academic advisors and a passion for working in human services, Grober transferred to the University of Iowa to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the School of Social Work (SSW), in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Although Grober was first drawn to the university for its affordable in-state tuition and proximity to his hometown of Readlyn, Iowa, his decision was solidified after learning about the opportunities available for students on Iowa’s campus. “The University of Iowa had the most to offer,” Grober said, drawn to the university’s faculty, staff, and course offerings. 

Grober credits Tomeka Petersen, program and admissions manager for the School of Social Work, for supporting him in navigating each step of the transfer process. By helping him register for classes and getting him integrated into the university’s online learning platforms, Petersen made Grober feel prepared to begin his studies at the University of Iowa.

Once he reached campus, Grober immediately connected with the welcoming SSW community. “I’ve had some really great relationships with my peers,” Grober said. "Just being able to go anywhere on campus and find a friend has been really nice.” This sentiment extends to staff, too. “Everyone that works in the building is so kind.” Grober said. “Every time I see people that work around the building, they’ll greet me and ask how I’m doing.”

Grober recommends the School of Social Work to students seeking opportunities for experiential learning and growth within their academic journey. He values the program’s emphasis on practical learning, noting that his coursework helps him connect theory to real-world social work practice. He credits Assistant Professor Megan Ronnenberg, MSW, PhD as an educator who has positively impacted his time at the university. “She pushed us in all of the best ways and never stopped encouraging us to try harder,” Grober said. “Her feedback is always designed to help you and not to tear you down.” Grober says that the experience helped him build confidence in his skills, preparing Grober for future work in the field of social work.

For Grober, the BA in Social Work has not only shaped his academic goals but also confirmed that Iowa City is where he wants to continue growing as a future social worker. After graduation, he is pursuing a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa, via the one-year accelerated program. Although there are multiple location options for the MSW program, Grober plans to complete his coursework at the Iowa City campus. “I love it here,” Grober said. “I don’t foresee myself leaving.”