This spring, OU-Tulsa hosted the third annual Social Work Practicum and Job Fair, a networking event that connects students and recent graduates to over 40 agencies across the Tulsa region. For Katrina Gratton, an OU-Tulsa graduate student who returned to higher education later in life, it was an opportunity to build professional connections in person.
“It was hard to find places that network face-to-face instead of doing everything online or over the phone,” Gratton said. "Having this event makes it easier to put a face to names, and when you make a good impression, it gets your foot in the door.”
The Social Work Practicum and Job Fair is designed to introduce students to the wide range of pathways in social work. Austin McCoy, an instructor and field education coordinator in the OU‑Tulsa School of Social Work, said the event broadens students’ perspectives.
“By having so many agencies in attendance, students get to see just how many options are out there,” McCoy said. “Students often come in focused on one area, but social work has so much to offer. This fair is their opportunity to explore.”
Community partners echoed that value. Jhoselyn Bartolo Rojas, a program administrative assistant for the local residential treatment facility Tulsa Boys’ Home, attended the event to meet potential practicum students and future professionals.
“Our agency provides internships, practicums, fellowships and more,” Bartolo Rojas said. “It’s a great learning experience. Students get to grow and learn from people who have been in the field for years and want to pour their knowledge into them.”
The fair doesn’t just connect students with full‑time job opportunities, it builds a pipeline between future social workers and agencies committed to strengthening the community.
“This event is a valuable opportunity for our students and recent graduates to explore the diverse range of social work opportunities available in Tulsa,” McCoy said. “It also allows agencies to connect with talented, passionate future social workers who are ready to make an impact.”
The OU-Tulsa undergraduate degree-completion application is now open. Students interested in social work are encouraged to apply by the June 1 deadline for Fall 2026.
