Social Work Graduate Finds Opportunities Abroad

Jennifer Brink ’12 of Grand Rapids, Michigan knew that when she graduated she wanted to work with diverse populations. With a summer position in Hong Kong and a new year-long position in Africa, she is doing just that.

In November, Brink, a graduate of the College’s social work program, will be living in Liberia, Africa, for one year, where she will be working with several organizations including the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Brink said her classes and experiences at Trinity pushed her to travel out of her comfort zone.

“I was reminded time and time again that God created all people, and regardless of their diverse background, he calls us to be servants in this world,” said Brink. “I have made the decision to spend the next year in Liberia because God has blessed me with so much, and I am now given an opportunity to share those blessings with others around the world.”

While serving with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Brink will work with orphans. In addition, she will help with a hot meal ministry for war-affected people in the area, teach at a college, and work at a clinic and hospital.

“It is amazing and a bit scary to think of the opportunities and learning that I will do,” said Brink. “I am confident that God will provide the strength and words that I need to walk alongside people while I’m there, helping in whatever ways are possible.”

The trip will not be her first overseas. After graduating in May, Brink traveled to Hong Kong, where she worked for a few months with Play Infinity, an organization that helps children learn through its Science Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics program (STEM).

Dr. Rose Malinowski, professor of social work at Trinity, believes Brink’s Trinity field placement at Westside Christian School in Chicago in spring 2012 helped prepare her for her journey.

“Jen’s experience provided her with many opportunities to serve in a culturally rich environment with the support of helping professionals from various backgrounds,” said Malinowski.