A social work degree was not the obvious choice for this Nebraska native. But Justin's early work with children, coupled with his participation in the National Conference for Community and Justice's youth leadership development program, led to a change of heart.

"I was headed to medical school, but my work with kids through Paul Newman's Hole in the Wall Camps for children with chronic and critical illnesses opened my eyes to a wide range of social issues.

"The School's curriculum addressed many of my interests.  I'm interested in the clinical aspect of social work, but the policy focus is equally important. The Brown School gives me the best of both.

"I feel strongly about getting people involved in the community. In St. Louis, I've been able to find my niche. I can network within the St. Louis community on progressive causes and social activism. I feel very connected to people with like interests."

Currently, Justin is living in Washington, D.C., working as the Program Director for Gay & Lesbian Outreach and Engagement (GLOE) at the Washington DC Jewish Community Center.  He is also enrolled in the Washington School of Psychiatry's Fundamentals of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. He plans to eventually get his PhD so that he can teach, research, and see patients.