I have been at Gladney for 3.5 academic semesters now and with my last semester half way over, now is a good time to share some reflections.
In starting my internship at Gladney I knew very little about adoption and practice. I had read quite a bit, followed news stories, watched lots of movies and TV specials, but I was very disconnected from the practice. Fortunately I connected with the Gladney Pittsburgh caseworker who has been more than generous in sharing the adoption world with me. I have done Home Studies, Post Placements, worked with Birth Mothers and even been to Texas to see our work and meet staff.
I was really inspired by what I saw in Texas. Gladney truly is a wonderful organization, focused on the best service delivery and a continued goal of hope.
I know now more than ever that I want to stay in this field as a professional. I want to experience the highs and lows of working with people at all stages of this highly emotional process. Connecting with people, understanding their situation, having empathy for them and celebrating their joys are all skills that take great time to acquire and refine. I have been fortunate to work with an agency that has perfected these skills and is eager to assist me in developing my own.
I have felt honored to be a part of the Gladney team and will always be supportive of this incredible agency!
I AM Gladney Pittsburgh :)
Kathryn