Arielle Aigotti

“Studying Social Work and Substance Use Disorders at Ramapo College has provided me with the tools to connect with people who use drugs and create macro level change. I attended the Council on Social Work Education Research Policy and Practice Student Summit in Washington, D.C., where I was exposed to pragmatic ideals to improve current practices around substance use in the United States and advocate for policy change at Capital Hill. I had the privilege to study abroad in Portugal to be immersed in the culture and principles of human dignity that provide the backbone for their unique approach to substance use. The education I received through the Substance Use minor has supported my career with multiple different populations of people. Today I work as a prevention specialist, working with young people and schools to provide substance use and mental health education. Working as a harm reduction advocate by supporting unhoused people and supplying safe supplies and drug testing kits, and working as a peer recovery specialist. The education received from the substance use curriculum and the mentorship by Dr. Sarabia to support students toward their future in this field is unmatched.” -Arielle Aigotti ’24 ’25 graduated with her Bachelor’s in Social Work with a minor in Substance Use Disorders. She is currently working to complete her Master’s of Social work (MSW) at Ramapo.

Program:
Global Clinical Social Work in Portugal: From Policy to Practice to Address Substance Use Disorders