Teresa Herbert
Family and human services major, Teresa Herbert hopes to improve the lives and increase the social acceptance of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
“My personal and professional passion is working to improve the lives and increase the social acceptance of individuals with intellectual disabilities,” says Teresa Herbert, a student earning her B.S. in Family and Human Services, Services to Children and Youth Track at TU in Northeastern Maryland.
When reflecting on choosing her degree Herbert recalls, “This major offers academic coursework that can be tailored to focus on a specific professional goal.”
“ It provides a holistic approach to human services explaining the factors that contribute to individual and social issues. ”
Herbert has participated in a number of departmental opportunities outside the classroom. Currently, she has an internship with Harford County Government Office of Disability Services. “It has been instrumental in complimenting my coursework,” she says.
Herbert also had the opportunity to work with family studies professor Diane Hall on a research project focusing on youth with intellectual disabilities. The Institute for Social Inclusion (INSINC) accepted her proposal for a poster presentation. Her poster, “Equitable Access for Transitioning Youth with Intellectual Disabilities: Policy Implications and Improvements,” was featured at their Social Justice and Social Inclusion Conference.
Additionally, Herbert was acknowledged by The NCFR Honors Student Recognition program for outstanding accomplishments and academic success.
But what was her favorite aspect of the TU Department of Family Science? “The accessibility and input of faculty has been invaluable to me,” she remarks. “Every faculty member I have encountered has been generous with their time, encouragement and support as I strive to reach my highest level of success with each task.”
As graduation approaches Herbert recognizes, “By far, one of the best life choices I have made was to enroll in this program. The benefits of attending this program will continue throughout my endeavors.”
After graduation, Herbert plans to “continue work in research, outreach and advocacy,” she says. “I will continue working toward a world that celebrates diversity and is inclusive of all individuals.”