Name: Keri Pfitzenmayer Position: PRP Counselor Year: 2013 Employer: Committed to Change Major: Human Service
Q & A
Why did you choose your major? I chose Human Service as my major due to my passion of wanting to "change the world".
I had experienced many "unforeseen circumstances" in my life and felt as though I
wanted to make a difference for those who struggle. I had a desire to provide hope
in darkness and be a light in the lives of others.
What advice would you give to students interested in your career path? I would encourage students to enter the Human Service program with an open mind and
a willingness to explore situations that are outside of their comfort zone.
What was your overall experience at ACM? My experience at ACM was positive. I felt as though the faculty genuinely cared about
my goals and dreams. I felt as though I was "set up for success" through the process
of navigating all of the areas of study.
When I started at ACM, I thought I wanted to be a nurse because "I wanted to help
people." I quickly realized that nursing wasn't for me. My advisor at the time was
kind enough to sit with me, learn about me, and lead me to the Human Service program.
I am thankful for my advisor listening and taking my best interest into consideration.
Her guidance set up my experience and success in life.
Who was your favorite ACM Faculty/Staff member? Why? I have many favorite faculty members. Each of them has left a lasting impact on my
life. One amazing woman that I'd like to recognize is, Cheri Snyder. Cheri is the
program director of the Human Service program and also a professor in the program.
I always share that she never gave up on me. In times that I felt as though I couldn't
bare anymore work, she always encouraged me and believed that I could do more. Cheri
is a kind soul. Her huge heart for others provides her with the ability to connect
to students on a personal level in order to provide them with the best educational
experience. Through the years, I have looked up to Cheri and strive to treat others
the way that she does each day.
A second former faculty member I would like to recognize is Tim Rowan. Tim was also
one of my favorite faculty members because of his sense of humor and amazing teaching
techniques. Tim taught in a way that would help you remember material quickly and
retain it. He was always creative in his teaching style and his therapeutic techniques.
By example, Tim would encourage me to think "outside the box" when working with clients
and in exploring my future. He also left a lifelong impact on my life.
What is your greatest achievement in your career? After graduating from ACM, I went on to obtain my undergrad in Social Work at Frostburg
State University. Currently, I am a graduate level Social Work student at Salisbury
University. I believe my greatest achievement has been the wide range of experiences
that I've obtained. I believe being eclectic in the Social Work profession is a strength
I possess. Many times, people believe that Social Work is limited to individual counseling;
however, through my education, I've learned that I want to explore group, community,
and world change! My greatest achievement is Social Work is still yet to come!
