Sara Lien is the practicum director for UMD's Master of Social Work program. She started working at UMD in 2018.
Why did you choose to work at UMD?
I was excited to use my many years of direct community social work experience to teach and support future social workers. Also, I was new to Duluth and believed it would be a great way to build community and get connected to others. That's been very true!
What do you like most about your job?
In my role, I meet with each MSW student to help them coordinate their practicum placements. I get to know so many smart, passionate, motivated students who truly want to help build strong communities. I love watching them grow, develop skills, and put their passions to action.
Do you have any advice for students?
Check in with yourself regularly about your values and the reasons you are pursuing social work. It's an important task to help you stay healthy and balanced when the work gets difficult. Also, build in time for fun, play, silliness, and humor. Play is highly undervalued in our society, and it's such a necessary doorway for joy and resilience.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My free time is spent cross-country skiing, hiking, and playing outside with my family and friends. I work in my neighborhood to build mutual aid networks and responses to local community needs. I also love music, especially live performances, and am happily teaching my six-year-old twins the joy of a living room dance party!