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Portrait of Natasha Hill

Honor Society® member

Natasha Hill

  • social work
  • Class of 2026
  • El Paso, IL

Member since February 2024

About

I am a non-traditional social work student at Illinois State University with a deep commitment to service, leadership, and community connection. I am currently completing my Bachelor of Social Work and will be continuing directly into the Master of Social Work program, with the goal of becoming a licensed grief therapist specializing in supporting widows and individuals navigating profound loss.

My academic and professional journey is shaped by lived experience, reflection, and purpose. Through my coursework, field placement, and leadership roles, I have developed a strong foundation in trauma-informed, strengths-based, and ethically grounded practice. I currently intern at a counseling practice where I assist with client intake, documentation, group support, and community outreach, allowing me to integrate theory with real-world application.

Beyond the classroom, I am actively involved in leadership and service. I founded and facilitate a widows support group, serve as President of the Non-Traditional Student Organization, hold an executive leadership role within an honor society, and serve as President of a nonprofit community theatre organization. I am also involved in faith-based outreach, creative arts, and community education efforts that support individuals across the lifespan.

At the core of my work is a belief in compassion, connection, and advocacy. I am passionate about creating supportive spaces, educating communities about grief and mental health, and ensuring that people feel seen, valued, and supported. As I move forward into graduate study and clinical practice, I remain committed to using my education, leadership, and lived experience to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Education

  • Illinois State University

    social work

    2023 – 2026

Goals and interests

Career goal

My intended job path is to become a licensed clinical social worker specializing in grief therapy, with a primary focus on supporting widows and individuals navigating significant loss and life transitions. Following completion of my Master of Social Work, I plan to pursue clinical licensure and work in counseling or mental health settings where I can provide individual and group therapy. Long term, I hope to develop or lead grief-focused programs that combine clinical practice, community education, and advocacy to improve access to compassionate, evidence-based grief support.

Graduate school interests

I am interested in pursuing a Master of Social Work with a focus on clinical practice and grief counseling, particularly working with widows and individuals experiencing profound loss and life transitions. My academic and professional interests center on trauma-informed care, bereavement support, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions that promote healing and resilience. I am also interested in community-based practice, policy advocacy related to mental health access, and developing programs that support underserved and non-traditional populations. Ultimately, my goal is to become a licensed grief therapist who combines clinical expertise, education, and advocacy to improve support systems for those navigating loss.

Outside the classroom

Community theatre, music participation, creative design, event planning, community service, and spending time with family.