Minor in Nonprofit Studies

Kendall Cade, 2025

What was the most impactful class you took in your major?  

The most impactful classes I took in my major were my HDFS 498 and 499: Internship and Analysis courses, taught by Professor Hideko Bassett. These courses provided an incredible opportunity for immersion in my field of study and the community. Professor Bassett made the experience especially meaningful—her enthusiasm, guidance, and willingness to connect students with real-world opportunities made the courses both enjoyable and invaluable. Through the courses, I interned with Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS), a vital community resource that supports individuals and families in overcoming barriers rooted in societal inequities. My placement within the Intervention, Prevention, and Education (IPE) program allowed me to work directly with youth and families, helping to promote self-sufficiency and reduce systemic barriers that contribute to dysfunction and at-risk behaviors. Through my internship, I strengthened essential casework skills, such as binder management and organization, navigating the referral system, and building community partnerships. This hands-on experience allowed me to integrate academic knowledge with professional practice seamlessly.  Professor Bassett’s support, mentorship, and enthusiasm made this stressful and individual experience feel less overwhelming and more collective, making me feel confident and prepared. Growing under the guidance of a professor who truly cares about her students’ success, I believe I am more equipped to begin my pursuit of developing into a well-rounded human service provider! 

In my minor, INTS 431: Principles of Fundraising and Introduction to INTS 331: Nonprofit Studies profoundly influenced my commitment to the nonprofit sector. These courses, taught by Mr. Zavin Smith and Mr. Samuel Frye, made learning about the core elements of nonprofit work enjoyable and enlightening. The service-based learning style allowed me to apply course concepts to real-world opportunities, offering valuable insight into the behind-the-scenes operations of nonprofit organizations. Their classes were relevant to my professional goals and translated meaningfully into my personal life. 

What activities were you involved in during your time at George Mason that impacted you?  

During my time at George Mason, student involvement significantly shaped who I am today, personally and professionally. Being an active member of campus organizations allowed me to explore my interests, build lasting relationships, and deepen my sense of purpose beyond the classroom. For two of my three years attended, I danced with Emerald Desires. I contributed to cultural expression and school spirit through performances at campus events alongside the Green Machine Pep Band. It was a vibrant and energizing experience that allowed me to celebrate identity, community, and creativity. Additionally, I was awarded “Most Spirited” for my participation in and enthusiasm for Geroge Mason athletics and events!   

I also remained deeply involved in the American Sign Language Club (ASL), where I advanced my understanding of American Sign Language and actively participated in initiatives to raise Deaf culture awareness. Unfortunately, I could not continue through ASL courses, but I plan to maintain and build my proficiency to encourage greater participation in this community! This experience has directly influenced my professional goals in accessibility and advocacy, and I am incredibly grateful for my time with the ASL department.  

Outside of student life, my most impactful experience came from my internship with Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) through the Intervention, Prevention, and Education (IPE) program. My role with NVFS opened doors for me beyond the classroom. Through a community partnership developed during my time with IPE, I began working independently with a local program leader to co-create a mental health workshop for at-risk youth. This project has become incredibly special to me. Still, the most rewarding moment during my internship was seeing my client grow—watching them become excited and confident in imagining a future free of risk and dysfunction reaffirmed my interest in working in the human service sector.   

These experiences, whether at Eagle Bank, in service, or in the community, have been essential to my development and are what made my George Mason journey so meaningful. I am grateful for all that I have experienced as a member of the Mason Nation and am excited to continue making meaningful memories and furthering George Mason's mission. 

What is your most memorable moment at George Mason inside or outside of the classroom?  

One of my most memorable classroom experiences was my time in the American Sign Language (ASL) department. Learning from and working alongside the incredible ASL professors was a highlight of my time at George Mason. Being immersed in ASL, and, by extension, the Deaf community, was an invaluable opportunity that deepened my cultural awareness and sensitivity, enhanced my communication skills, and added structure and discipline to my personal growth. As a visual language, ASL helped me strengthen my attention span, sharpen my attention to detail, improve my memory, and become a more active listener. My journey in learning ASL also opened the door to active participation in the deaf community. From attending deaf events to being involved in the ASL Club, I was inspired to advocate for greater access to mental health resources for deaf individuals. By building relationships through these experiences, I eventually began organizing and planning a deaf event to increase awareness and equitable access to mental health support. 

As you are reflecting on your time at George Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey? 

One piece of advice I would give to a student just starting their George Mason journey is to embrace every opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone—whether that means joining a club, introducing yourself to a professor, attending campus events alone, or trying a class that challenges you. Growth often happens in unfamiliar spaces. Also, don’t underestimate the power of self-marketing and personal branding. Presenting yourself through your resume, social media, networking, and even classroom presence can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Take the time to discover who you are, what you stand for, your values, and how to communicate and reflect what is important to you. George Mason has much to offer, but it’s up to you to make the most of it. Be open, be curious, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself—you belong here, even if it takes a little time to feel that way! 

What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?

I plan to continue my academic advancement by attending graduate school and obtaining my master's in social work with a complimentary graduate certificate in nonprofit management. Additionally, I am in the process of securing my victim advocacy certification and credentials in family life education, which will equip me with the tools to provide direct support to those affected by experiences of trauma and abuse. These academic advancements will allow me to flourish in my professional career of serving the community through my established private practice as a marriage and family therapist and nonprofit founder.