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Small acts, lasting impact: Scholarship supports Auburn social work student's journey

Amanda Shapiro has always loved making people smile. From surprising someone with handmade jewelry to simply offering support during a difficult time, she finds joy in making others feel cared for.

In high school, she discovered a way to turn that kindness into a career. Shapiro watched social workers guide people through difficult times while respecting their independence and knew she wanted to do the same.

“It only made sense that my career would be focused on serving others,” she said. “Helping others along their journey in a way that lets them make their own choices and maintain their autonomy is what I love to do, and social work will allow me to do that.”

Today, Shapiro is double majoring in social work in Auburn University's College of Liberal Arts and human development and family science in the College of Human Sciences. Outside the classroom, she spends much of her time volunteering, connecting with her community and encouraging other students to get involved.

As a volunteer instructor with Expressions of a BraveHeart, a fine arts program supported by Auburn Social Work and Opelika Parks & Recreation, Shapiro helps young people with disabilities express themselves and build friendships. She also serves as a student ambassador for the program, welcoming families, recruiting volunteers and helping new students get involved.

She brings that enthusiasm for working with people to her leadership roles on campus. As director of experiential learning and service for LEAD Auburn, Shapiro organized service projects, educational trips, etiquette dinners and intergenerational gatherings where people of different ages could learn from one another. She also serves as president of Auburn’s Association of Student Social Workers, connecting students who share an interest in the profession and community service.

Shapiro's love for animals has found a place in her busy schedule, too. As a volunteer coordinator intern at CARE Humane Society, she welcomes prospective volunteers, leads shelter tours and introduces community members to ways they can help animals in need. So far, she's contributed more than 540 hours to the organization.

Working with such different groups has taught Shapiro a great deal about the people she hopes to serve and helped her grow into a more confident leader.

“Each of these experiences has grown my passion for helping people in a variety of populations, from people with disabilities to college students. I have been able to witness the impact of even small acts of service, inspiring me to continue supporting others in a variety of ways,” she said. “This wealth of experience has improved my communication, confidence, and humility as a leader.”

Shapiro wants to make the most of every opportunity Auburn offers, and scholarship support helps her do just that.

The Betty Seale Barlow and Freida Scoggins Baker Annual Scholarship, supplemented by matching support from the Bashinsky Foundation, eases some of the financial worries that come with paying for college. That peace of mind allows Shapiro to concentrate on her education while continuing the volunteer work and leadership activities she values.

Her experiences have helped her settle on a career that combines her interests in social work and animal welfare. Shapiro plans to become a veterinary social worker, helping people navigate the emotional challenges that can come with caring for animals.

“I hope to help people navigate the human-animal bond through pet loss support groups, animal-assisted interventions or supporting animal care workers,” she said.

Wherever her path leads, Shapiro will do what she's always loved most: bring a little more kindness and comfort into someone's life when they need it most.

Learn more about Auburn Social Work.

Tags: Students Social Work