Students

Roiona is pursuing her Masters Degree in the Clinical Social Work program at Point Loma Nazarene University. She wants to support youth who are going through trauma and see how she can better their lives through the therapeutic skills given. She is passionate about helping young people navigate the heavy impact of trauma and empowering them as they figure out who they are and where they want to go.

Whether it’s helping them build practical life skills, navigate the messy transition from youth to the real world of adulthood, or connect them with the right resources to set them up for success, she’s here to walk alongside them every step of the way.

Alongside her studies, Roiona works part-time as a Youth Leader supporting children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). She is also diagnosed with a disability herself. Drawing on her own lived experience, Roiona hopes to bring a sense of empathy to the program, ensuring youth and families feel deeply recognized and heard.

Sharon is pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Point Loma Nazarene University, with an emphasis on personal growth and continued learning. Areas of interest include supporting those with hoarding disorder and working with community-based organizations that provide essential resources, such as clothing, footwear, personal hygiene products, household items, and school supplies. Through academic study and internship experience, Sharon hopes to deepen her understanding of effective social work practices and develop the skills needed to support individuals and families while strengthening communities.

Chris Turner is an intern from Point Loma Nazarene University, where he is pursuing his master’s degree in School Social Work. He served in the Air Force for 10 years and is passionate about helping to serve youth. He is a single dad and serves as a youth leader at his church’s youth group. A San Diego native, he looks forward to volunteering, giving back to his community, and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Outside of his professional and academic work, he enjoys extreme sports such as snowboarding, and considers himself a “kid at heart.” He has traveled to every continent except South America and has visited 29 countries, with a personal goal of visiting 100 countries. He also previously spent five months working in Antarctica as a boiler mechanic.

Alia is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Social Work at San Diego State University. She is interested in healthcare reform including the importance of health education, prevention, patient advocacy, and the integration of whole person care.

She has experience working in healthcare, research, and recently with students experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. Alia hopes to promote a holistic approach to health and well-being to help improve policy and programs.