Social Work Student Receives Award in FSU Graduate Student Op-Ed Competition

MSW student Monica Mardones heard about the inaugural Graduate Student Op-Ed Competition from The Graduate School through an FSU communication and decided to apply. The competition challenged enrolled FSU graduate students to participate by writing an “op-ed,” short for “opposite the editorial page” article that expresses an author’s informed opinion on a current issue or topic of interest.

“I wanted to hone my skills in writing op-eds because it’s a powerful way to share ideas and spark meaningful conversations on important issues,” shared Monica.

She added: “As someone passionate about both social work and education, I saw it as an opportunity to amplify my voice and advocate for change on a broader platform. Learning to write an op-ed not only helps me communicate effectively but also allows me to connect with others who care about making a difference.”

Her op-ed titled “Broken Systems: The Urgency of Gun Reform and Mental Health in Schools” was selected for the Best Organized Op-Ed Award, which is awarded “to the op-ed demonstrating exceptional structure and clarity throughout, following a standard journalistic structure with a compelling opening, clear thesis, and logical progression.”

“Winning this op-ed award is a big step outside of my comfort zone,” she expressed, “and it shows me that I am capable of more than I realized.”

Monica felt compelled to write on gun violence in schools due to her concern about the rising number of school shootings in the United States and the urgent need for better mental health support in schools. After finishing a bachelor’s degree in behavioral health from the University of South Florida, she worked in Manatee County Schools as a behavioral technician and later as a graduation enhancement technician, supporting students needing various forms of support.

Her memories of lockdown drills in schools, seeing their impact on the young students around her and her work with administration to ensure their safety stuck with her. “Another major influence was one of my colleagues – a social worker who has become a mentor and close friend,” Monica recalled. “She founded the Center of Newtown and continues her incredible work with Sandy Hook Promise. Her passion and dedication to creating safer schools and communities inspired me to share my perspective and advocate for change.”

Monica’s experiences also inspired her to pursue her Master of Social Work degree with a clinical concentration. At Florida State, she continues to support students working as an academic advisor through FSU Advising First for the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.

“It’s been a great way to continue my work in helping students thrive, whether it’s in their personal development or their academic journey,” she emphasized. Monica has combined her background in K-12 education and current work in social work to utilize a more holistic approach to student support.

“I also knew that the FSU College of Social Work’s supportive community and commitment to helping their students thrive would be the perfect place for me to develop my skills and pursue what I’m most passionate about.”

The op-ed award is just further confirmation for Monica that using your voice and your words are an essential way to advocate and bring attention to issues that need change.

“It reinforces that my voice on important issues can make a difference, and this recognition motivates me to continue speaking up and taking action,” she said about her award. “Being able to write clearly and in. a way that connects with others helps us make our voices heard and represent the people we work with."