Recovery to Giving Back Through Social Work

At 43 years old, Jason Witt is turning his struggles into a powerful tool for helping others. A recovering addict with multiple years of sobriety, he has found a new purpose in the college’s Human Services program. Through his unique life experiences, he’s determined to make a significant impact in the lives of others facing similar challenges.

“I’ve been in recovery for a little over four years,” Jason shared. “I work with a couple of people at my current job who have a degree in social work, and they encouraged me to pursue this path. They believed it would help me, and allow me to help others who are going through similar experiences.”

His journey is a testament to the strength of personal transformation and the power of education. With firsthand experience in overcoming addiction, he brings a valuable perspective to the field of social work. “I feel like I have a lot of experience on one side of the social work field and thought I could use that to benefit others,” he added. “A lot of the coursework at North Central has been very beneficial to the field I’m entering. Many of the concepts I’m studying resonate with my own life experiences.”

Support from the college has been instrumental in his success. “One of the best things at North Central is my student advisor,” he said. “She has been amazing, always answering my emails quickly and providing the guidance I need. Her support has given me the confidence to continue my education and push through any challenges that arise.”

Beyond the classroom, the student is gaining valuable hands-on experience through his practicum hours. “Right now, I’m working in the field, gaining real-world experience,” he explained. “This has been incredibly beneficial, and I’m also completing my Chemical Dependency Counseling Assistance certificate, which will be a huge asset for me moving forward.”

North Central’s flexible approach to learning has also been an important part of his success. While he prefers in-person classes, he’s found that the online options have exceeded his expectations. “The online classes have been much easier than I thought they’d be,” he said. “The flexibility of class options and schedules has been a huge advantage, allowing me to balance my education with other responsibilities.”

Jason’s commitment to his recovery and his education is an inspiration to all.