MEET OUR GRADUATES: Heather Rockwell

Heather Rockwell, 28, first enrolled at RIC at age 18, but dropped out after two semesters and began working in the human services field as a residential counselor for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Working eight-hour shifts, sometimes back-to-back, for $9 an hour, she assisted her clients with showering, dressing, feeding and social activities.

“I had only a high school diploma and a willingness to learn,” she said. “I put my heart into everything I did. I enjoyed helping the residents meet their goals. I had all these things I wanted to do to make their lives better. And suddenly it became clear to me what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to be a social worker. I knew I could make a difference.”

In order to become a certified social worker, Moore realized she would need a college degree. She began by earning an associate’s degree from Bristol Community College. Then she returned to Rhode Island College’s social work program.

“I heard they had a great program, so I enrolled,” she said. While at RIC, Rockwell said, she was often told by faculty what an exceptional social worker she would make. The most important qualities of a social worker is the ability to listen deeply and to understand, said Rockwell.

In May 2014 she earned her bachelor's of social work degree. 

“I wasn’t ready for school when I was 18,” she said, “but when I came back I had a purpose. Social work is my purpose. It’s the reason why I’m here, I believe.” 

After a short break, Rockwell intends to pursue a master’s degree in social work at RIC.