Social Work Interns Get Hands-On Experience at ICAN
Part of Keeping Families Together is instilling a passion for the work we do in everyone we can. At ICAN, we pride ourselves on making sure interns get the BEST experience and as much hands-on education as possible as they continue to advance their degree.
We have been welcoming social work interns for over a decade at ICAN! What’s really special is that staff members who are going for their MSW degrees are able to do their internship right here with us, taking advantage of our 20+ programs and the many different populations we serve!
We asked some of our current interns to share their experiences with us - we love their backgrounds and motivations for getting into the rewarding field of social work!
Andrew Edwards
Children's Crisis Residence
Western New Mexico University
Expected Graduation Date: May, 2026
Tell us two fun facts about you!
I have a dog named Fresca and I like to cook.
What drew you to apply for the internship program at ICAN?
I wanted the opportunity to work with clients under supervision and help people the way I was helped with my mental health.
Who or what motivates and inspires you in your personal or professional life?
My mother motivates me to be the best that I can be and try to stay positive.
What are your plans after graduation, particularly in terms of licensure and career goals in social work?
I want to do a combination of macro social work and working with clients.
What's one piece of advice you would offer to someone starting their journey in social work?
I would say that it has to be something that inspires you to get out of bed each morning and feel like you are making a difference.
Additional Comments
To those considering social work, make sure it is your passion no matter where you work, helping people will be your main goal!
Nicole Maggiolino
Interning with SNUG Utica
Utica University
Expected Graduation Date: May, 2026
What are some fun facts about you?
I enjoy camping, hiking and being outdoors as much as possible (even in the winter). I am passionate about helping others.
What inspired you to pursue your MSW?
I previously worked with ICAN for five years. Working with high-risk youth as a service coordinator inspired me to pursue my MSW. Being a mentor to individuals who are looking for connections, consistency and guidance and watching them grow inspires me. My internship with SNUG is a way to spread the importance of mental health and a way to help break the stigma so individuals can feel less alone and develop their mental health toolboxes.
What drew you to apply for the internship program at ICAN?
I loved working for ICAN and admire the Clinical Social Work staff there. The social work network that has been built was a huge support system for my academic journey.
Who or what motivates and inspires you in your personal or professional life?
My family and close friends inspire me! They are a huge support for me and my dreams.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I am going to go for my licensure. I would like to work with the teenage and young adult population as an individual counselor. I would also be interested in doing group counseling sessions and may even decide to go on to obtain my clinical degree.
What’s one piece of advice you would offer to someone starting their journey in social work?
Just take it one day at a time and lean on your support systems both in your personal life and the social work network here at ICAN.
Joshua Mescall
Interning with our Youth ACT Program
Keuka College
Expected Graduation Date: May, 2026
Share two fun facts about yourself!
I worked as a professional chef for 18 years prior to getting into social work. During my time as a chef I cooked for the band U2, Linda Carter (Wonder Woman) and the Queen of England. I love to forage for wild edibles - like wild leeks (ramps), mushrooms and other herbs.
Tell us about your current role…
I currently work in the Kids Oneida Program as a case management supervisor.
This role has opened my eyes up to the large number of children and families that deal with mental health issues, but don't receive the treatment that is needed for a number of disparities, many of which are out of their control – factors such as, geographic location, race, social class or economics.
What drew you to apply for the internship program at ICAN?
I applied for the internship program at ICAN because I want to fight against the many social injustices that exist all around us, and my internship affords me this opportunity. Through my field work, I am able to work one-on-one with youth and adults in a therapeutic way. I see this as a way for me now, and in the future, to act as a more effective agent of change.
Who or what motivates and inspires you in your personal or professional life?
My faith and family drive me to get up and do the things that I do each and every day. I am a Christian man who believes in finding the good in all people, no matter what their past was. Everyone deserves a second chance at life. I am also married to a wonderful woman (Anjela) – it will be for 20 years this May. She is my "partner in crime", and we have three amazing kids – Mariano (10), Vincenzo (8), and Ariella (6). If not for them, I would not have the strength or passion to help people who are hurting.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to obtain my LMSW post graduation and work for ICAN as a therapist. Eventually, I hope to obtain enough hours to become a LCSW and open my own practice.
What’s one piece of advice you would offer to someone starting their journey in social work?
Practice good self-care. If you are tapped out mentally, emotionally or physically, you can't help anyone else. Also, don't try to do too many things at once. This can lead quickly to burn out. Life is a journey. You need to take the time to enjoy the moment, like the sun setting, the moon rising, or the wind blowing, more often. Otherwise life will pass you by like a sailing ship on the ocean.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love working for ICAN and it is the best place that I have ever worked in my life. I have had upwards of 20 different employers. So that says a lot. 
Melissa Miller
Interning with Home-Based Crisis Intervention (HBCI)
Keuka College
Expected Graduation Date: December, 2026
Tell us two fun facts about you!
As a wife and mother of four, finding time for a hobby is a rare occurrence. However, regardless of the demands in my life, I prioritize creating lasting memories with my family; moments that we can always look back on and cherish.
Are you currently working at ICAN? If so, what inspired you to pursue your MSW and how does your role at ICAN connect to your educational journey?
I currently serve as an Interventionist in the newly established Home-Based Crisis Intervention (HBCI) program. My path toward obtaining a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree began with my tenure at ICAN, where the timing of this opportunity aligned perfectly with my professional goals. I am pursuing an MSW because I am deeply concerned about the mental health crisis in our country. I believe that regardless of background, everyone needs someone they can trust and confide in during times of crisis. My mission is to make a meaningful impact, if I can help just one individual, I consider my work fulfilled.
What drew you to apply for the internship program at ICAN?
I wanted to start my internship out doing work-based, which is when you complete internship hours in the program you work in, as I was just starting at ICAN. Even though I am interning in the HBCI program that I work in, I am still learning new things in my work role every day as no two clients are the same!
Who or what motivates and inspires you in your personal or professional life?
In both my personal and professional life, my children are my greatest source of motivation and inspiration. I am also incredibly grateful for the support of my husband, who manages everything at home while I dedicate countless hours to my studies. Professionally, I am driven by the many individuals I encounter who are in need of therapy or counseling, yet face barriers such as long waitlists or insurance limitations. It is clear that the mental health field must continue to grow and expand over the next decade, as mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue in our country.
What are your plans after graduation, particularly in terms of licensure and career goals in social work?
After completing my MSW, I will of course take the exam to receive my license to become a LMSW. I will then continue on for my next set of internship to receive my clinical license to become a LCSW. As for my career goals, I am very passionate about our veterans and I do not believe that enough is done for them in our country. I still have a little while to come up with my exact career goal if I want to work at Veterans Affairs, open my own practice, etc. But all I know for certain is that I want to dedicate my expertise to our veterans.
What's one piece of advice you would offer to someone starting their journey in social work?
Stay compassionate and patient, both with others and yourself. The work can be challenging, and progress may be slow at times, but every step forward no matter how small makes a difference. Always remember why you started this journey: to help others and make a positive impact. Stay connected to your purpose, seek support when needed and continue to grow both professionally and personally.
Talia Mora
Interning at Evelyn’s House
Keuka College
Expected Graduation Date: September, 2026
What are two fun facts about you?
I received my primary and secondary education in the Dominican Republic, which has made me fully bilingual in English and Spanish. I love to travel and usually go back home (the DR) once or twice a year.
Are you currently working at ICAN? If so, what inspired you to pursue your MSW and how does your role at ICAN connect to your educational journey?
When I first started working as a Youth Care Coordinator for the Children's health Home program, I had no idea I would be interested in pursuing my MSW. However, after meeting my clients, learning about their life journeys, and having the opportunity to advocate for and empower them, I realized this was the field for me.
I am currently transitioning from my role as a Youth Care Coordinator for the Children's Health Home program to a Crisis Interventionist for the Home Based Crisis Intervention program. As a Youth Care Coordinator. I developed essential skills in advocacy and support for youth and their families, while my new position as an Interventionist will allow me to work directly with children in crisis situations, requiring quick assessment and intervention. Both roles at ICAN have given me the opportunity to apply what I have learned in class to real-life scenarios.
What drew you to apply for the internship program at ICAN?
I have had a great experience working for ICAN, so there was no doubt I would be completing my internship there as well. When searching for a program to fulfill my internship hours, I was looking for a program that worked with a different population from the one I currently serve. This is why I choose Evelyn's House, to explore diverse roles and acquire new skills.
Who or what motivates and inspires you in your personal or professional life?
My family and the individuals I serve inspire me to continue growing and achieving more.
What are your plans after graduation, particularly in terms of licensure and career goals in social work?
After graduation, I would like to obtain my LMSW and continue acquiring new skills and expanding my knowledge by working in the field.
What's one piece of advice you would offer to someone starting their journey in social work?
Self-care is essential in the field of social work. It's important to establish firm boundaries, set aside time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy. Remember, you cannot fully support others if you haven't taken the time to care for yourself. Prioritizing your own needs allows you to be more present and effective in your role and services you provide.