After more than 20 years as an educator, Tony Tepedino ’24 was ready for a new professional path. Through his work alongside school social workers, he discovered a shared commitment to supporting others and recognized social work as a field where he could make a meaningful impact in a variety of settings.
That realization led Tepedino to enroll full time in Brockport’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. The program’s location at the Brockport Downtown campus provided a convenient option for pursuing his education while preparing for a career as a therapist.
“Social work was a great fit for my values and the work I want to do. Brockport fit my needs perfectly.”
Tony Tepedino
“Social work was a great fit for my values and the work I want to do. Brockport fit my needs perfectly,” said Tepedino. “I had a chance to meet a few professors before the program started. All of them were kind and helpful, offering guidance and support. And they still are.”
The MSW program prepares students through an integrated practice approach focused on social justice, ethics, and values. Coursework examines the impact of power, privilege, oppression, discrimination, marginalization and disparities on the human experience while preparing students to support individuals, families and communities.
For Tepedino, the program’s two field placements provided some of the most impactful learning experiences. Through placements in college counseling offices at Genesee Community College and SUNY Brockport, he gained hands-on clinical experience while working alongside professional clinicians and applying the skills developed through his coursework.
Anthony (Tony) Tepedino
“Getting to do clinical work was rewarding, fun, and challenging,” Tepedino said. “This experience allowed me to understand what I am walking into while gaining critical skills by practicing and learning with experienced supervision and support.”
Tepedino’s graduate education helped him transition into a new career as a Clinical Therapist, where he combines his passion for relationships, problem-solving and advocacy to support clients as they navigate life’s challenges.
“I love that a MSW degree gives you so many options,” said Tepedino. “Social Work is super rewarding, but difficult work.”