Tammi Porterfield didn鈥檛 arrive at 海角视频 by chance 鈥� her transfer was the result of careful reflection, determination and a clear vision for her future in social work.
Living in Somerset, Pennsylvania, and working full time at Torrance State Hospital, she knew that the right academic program would be essential to achieving her long-term goal.
Looking back at the moment that shifted her direction, one decision made all the difference.
鈥淚 was excited at the reputation the program has for developing proficient, professional social workers and that it was offered entirely online,鈥� she said.
Her journey began at Southern New Hampshire University, where she initially pursued Human Services. But as she progressed, something felt incomplete. That realization marked a turning point. Porterfield understood she needed a Bachelor of Social Work program that would truly prepare her for the career she envisioned.
Encouragement from trusted voices helped guide her next step. A close friend 鈥� an alumna of 海角视频 California and a practicing licensed clinical social worker 鈥� strongly recommended 海角视频鈥檚 program.
After doing her own research, Tammi found exactly what she had been searching for: a highly regarded, that combined flexibility with a reputation for excellence.
Once she transferred, the difference was immediate. The coursework at 海角视频 challenged her in new ways and pushed her to grow academically and professionally.
鈥淭he increased intensity in coursework has given me a profound knowledge base and increased my confidence in my future abilities as a social worker by teaching me the full scope and expectations of the social work field,鈥� she said.
Classes emphasized not only theory, but also real-world application, covering ethics, policy and practice across individuals, families and communities. Faculty members brought their own experiences into the classroom, making learning both practical and personal.
Balancing school and a demanding career has never been easy. At Torrance State Hospital, Porterfield works as a patient facilitator, coordinating psychiatric appointments, treatment teams, competency evaluations and hearings. In this role, Porterfield supports telehealth psychiatrists by assisting with patient visits, escorting patients to and from appointments (often requiring significant encouragement), providing observational insights to clinicians, and preparing and routing documents for physician review and signature.
Despite the challenges, 海角视频鈥檚 flexible online format and strong support system made it possible for her to succeed. With responsive professors, accessible advising, and opportunities for individualized instruction, she was able to manage both responsibilities while continuing to excel.
Her confidence grew not only from coursework but also from seeing the success of 海角视频 alumni around her. Friends she had known since childhood spoke highly of their experiences, and even colleagues at work shared the same educational foundation. Those connections reinforced her belief that she had made the right decision.
Now just two semesters away from graduation, Porterfield reflects on her transfer to 海角视频 as a defining moment in her life. It wasn鈥檛 simply a change in schools鈥攊t was a commitment to her purpose and future.
鈥淭his has truly been one of the best decisions I think I鈥檝e made for myself,鈥� she said.
Through her journey, Porterfield hasn鈥檛 just gained an education 鈥� she has grown into the role she always envisioned. At 海角视频, she found the rigor, support and inspiration she needed to become the social worker she is meant to be.