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Kirstin Vanada

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General information

Hobbies & Interests

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Reading

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Bio

I’ve always had an interest in the well-being of others, which has inspired me to pursue a career in social work. I will be starting a Master's of Social Work at the University of Arkansas in the Fall of 2026. My previous career in teaching inspired a passion for the flourishing and social-emotional health of children, particularly for those in unsafe home environments. This passion was furthered by my six years of teaching overseas in Uganda, where I taught vulnerable children in our community who often experienced trauma in their daily lives. These experiences made me desire to focus more directly on addressing the needs of vulnerable children, and to learn the skills that a social worker uses to address the mental health and social support needs of families and their communities. I am the adoptive mom of a child with complex disabilities and I am extremely passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities and their families. Through my daughter I have been exposed to the ongoing ableism and inaccessibility of our society; as a social worker I hope to help address the wholistic needs of individuals with disabilities.

Education

University of Arkansas

Master's degree program

2026 – 2026

Majors:
  • Social Work

John Brown University

Bachelor's degree program

2010 – 2014

Majors:
  • Education, General

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Graduate schools of interest:
University of Arkansas
Majors of interest:
Social Work
Desired degree modality:
In-Person
Medical school interest:
No

Career

  • Global Coordinator

    Religion · 99 Balloons

    Jan 2026 – Present

  • 2nd Grade Teacher

    Education · Arkansas Public Schools

    Jan 2014 – Jan 2017

  • Primary Teaching coach, Director of studies, K-3 teacher

    Education · The Amazima School - Primary

    Jan 2017 – Jan 2023

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Individual & Family Services
Dream career goals:
Through a career in social work I hope to address the wholistic needs of individuals with disabilities and their families.
Work experience:
10+ years
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
Kirstin Vanada Student Profile | Bold.org