Leonel Olmos Jr. is majoring in Social Work & English (Creative Writing) with minors in Chicane & Latine Studies, Public Policy, Criminal Justice, and Leadership. He is in his 4th year in school and is from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Learn more about Leonel, one of our amazing undergrads in this feature!

What has been one of your favorite college memories so far?

My experience with the McNair Scholars Program! I have had the amazing opportunity to conduct my own research on LGBTQ+ first-generation Latine Americans under the guidance of Dr. LB Klein. I got to present my research thus far in Los Angeles on the UCLA campus.

What do you hope to do after college? 

I plan to pursue my Master of Social Work to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work with individuals and communities from LGBTQIA2S+, Latine, Immigrant, and Refugee populations. After working for a couple of years, I hope to return to academia to pursue a PhD in Social Work and become a professor and researcher.

Why did you choose a social work major?

Since I got to UW–Madison, I’ve pivoted between potential majors and careers more times than I can count. Towards the end of my Sophomore year, I decided to pivot to Social Work. Ever since then, every course and experience has only reaffirmed that decision. Social Work encompasses all of my interests across the micro, mezzo, and macro levels and offers a holistic, comprehensive education, which I value. The faculty in the School of Social Work are also among the best professors I have had at UW–Madison, thanks to the intimate class sizes that foster genuine community and understanding between professors and students. Finally, I have absolutely loved my research experience with Dr. LB Klein in the School of Social Work, where I discovered my passion for research that informs practice, and practice that informs research.

How would you describe your experience in the social work program so far?

The Social Work program, regardless of whether it is a big or small class, fosters a genuine environment between students and professors. Every social work professor I’ve had has been incredibly understanding of external circumstances and factors that impact their students and has offered flexibility and grace when necessary. I feel seen as more than just a student—but as a colleague and, in general, a person.

What has been your favorite course in the program so far and why?

SW639: Social Work Practice with LGBTQIA2S+ Individuals and Communities has been my favorite course in the Social Work program so far for many reasons. First and foremost, it was my introduction to Dr. LB Klein, with whom I have built an impactful and meaningful relationship as my Faculty Mentor for the McNair Scholars Program. Second, I hope to work with LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and communities as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, so the course was perfect in filling the gaps in my already established education and experience, which is primarily informed by my own lived experience.

What would you say to someone considering this major?

I would 100% recommend it. I appreciate Social Work because it takes internal and external factors into equal consideration when working with people of all ages and walks of life. The courses, faculty, research, and professional experience have all been very valuable and impactful to my development as not only a social worker but also a lifelong learner.

What’s something on your bucket list and why?

Traveling to various countries, including El Salvador, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, and Greece.