Stachakay Silvera, MSW '18 '20

College of Arts & Sciences/School of Social Work

BS, Criminal Justice
BA, Social Work
MSW, Social Work with Direct Clinical Practice

Undergraduate Involvement

Theatre Arts Program
Phi Alpha Honor Society (Social Work)
Alpha Phi Sigma (National Criminal Justice) Honor society
Criminal Justice Club
Social Work Club

Why’d You Choose SHU?

SHU provided me with the opportunity that no other school could have. I was looking for a school that could help me be the best that I can be academically, physically, and internally. SHU has helped me strive for excellence and has shown me the power of community and integrity, and for this, I will forever be grateful.

What do you do now?

Currently, I am a school social worker in the Bridgeport area. I provide mental health support, social-emotional support, and other services to scholars from grades 6-12 that are in general and special education. I am also the CEO & Founder of a nonprofit organization called B.I.O (Beautiful Inside and Out) to help people from ages 11-21 normalize mental health and take back ownership of their healing process.

Advice to Underrepresented SHU Students

Never give up on yourself or your dreams. I encourage you to look at yourself in the mirror and say, "I am the future, I have a Purpose, and I am worthy!" Never allow your fears or doubt to get the best of you. You may feel like giving up sometimes and feel like there is no point. But in those moments, remind yourself that you will get through it and will positively impact yourself and your community. I would also like to encourage you to take care of your mental health and do what you can. Take breaks if you need to, and be kind to yourself! Never forget that you matter, your mental health matters, and you are B.I.O (Beautiful Inside and Out)