Substance abuse counselor Brittany N. Holland (Human Services, ’12), went on to earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) with Honors at Lehman College, CUNY in 2014, and then a Master of Social Work (MSW) at Adelphi University in 2015. In June 2016, she became a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee (CASAC-T) and joined the staff at Success Counseling Services, an outpatient treatment center in the Bronx, assisting individuals with substance use and mental health issues.
Q: What is your favorite memory (professor, class, etc.) of BMCC?
A: During my time at BMCC, I took Human Services Skills (HUM 201) with Professor Rosalie Gleicher. She was so helpful, always arriving early to class so we could talk about the class material and career options I was considering. Professor Gleicher was also very generous in helping me obtain my current employment, by providing job leads and assisting me with resume writing and cover letters.
Q: How did BMCC help you get where you are today?
A: Thanks to the BMCC Early Childcare Center, which my daughter attended while I was in class, I was able to continue my education as a single parent and can now enjoy my work as a social worker, assisting individuals with substance use and mental health issues. It is exciting to see them become ‘clean’ and reintegrate back into society; to reconnect with their families, obtain housing and gain employment. I am currently studying to obtain my LMSW, and become a Licensed Master Social Worker.
Q: What advice do you have for today’s BMCC students?
A: Never give up. Even when you believe times are rough, press forth. Remember you ‘start here and go anywhere’.
Q: Why is it important for alumni to stay involved with BMCC?
A: It is important for us, as alumni, to stay involved, in order to let current students know it is possible to achieve their dreams.
