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ALPENA — Alpena Community College will host a social work information session on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Fitzpatrick Lecture Hall, with an option to attend remotely via WebEx.

The event is designed for prospective students, high school students, and community members interested in exploring a career in social work–a field focused on making a meaningful impact while offering strong job demand and long-term career stability. Western Michigan University, Northeast Michigan

Community Mental Health Authority, and other local employers will join ACC representatives to provide insight into education and career pathways.

Attendees will learn about the growing need for social workers, as well as the financial advantages of starting their education locally. Many students can significantly reduce costs by beginning their studies at a community college, avoiding expenses such as university housing and meal plans. Information on scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs will also be shared.

The session will cover:

• The current scope and demand for social work careers

• Affordable education options, including grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness

• Academic pathways, including Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs

• Internship and partnership opportunities in northeast Michigan

• Opportunities to earn college credit through local partnerships

• Next steps for getting started in the field

Participants will have the opportunity to hear directly from educators and employers, ask questions, and

explore how to build a local, cost-effective pathway into a meaningful and impactful career.

The social work information session is free and open to the public.