Social innovation in practice
Meet Rebecca Morsillo, a fourth-year student at Toronto Metropolitan's School of Social Work. During the 2020 Fall semester, Rebecca joined the Office of Social Innovation (OSI) to participate in our first piloted remote research opportunity for social work students! We spoke with Rebecca about her placement and how it helped her gain new skills in navigating the exciting world of research and understanding the impact of social innovation and social justice in higher education institutions.
What does social innovation mean to you?
Social innovation is about collectively working together to solve social issues, or what we call ‘wicked problems,’ in a creative or innovative way.
What sparked your interest in social innovation and social justice work?
I'm interested in how structural and systemic barriers can be removed from society through policy and program changes, specifically through social innovation. I was interested in the creative piece that social innovation has to offer because that's something that I've never had the chance to explore before.
How did you first learn about OSI?
I went to a networking event last year, and Olivia Gemma, who used to work at OSI as a Career Boost student, was there as a panellist. She shared her experience working at the office and how amazing the work there is, and she suggested getting involved with OSI. Hearing about the social justice piece sparked my interest as well - and now here I am!
What led you to apply to work with OSI for your social work placement?
When the School of Social Work Field Education Office told me that I was matched with OSI, I was excited to get more work experience at Toronto Metropolitan! I've been interested in working in higher education, so when I researched the office, many keywords popped out that resonated with me, like ‘social justice,’ ‘anti-oppressive,’ and ‘social change.’ Then I learned more about what social innovation was, and felt like it was a good match for me. I couldn’t wait to see what projects I’d be involved in!
Can you tell us about some of the projects you worked on with OSI this semester?
The two main projects I was involved in were ‘Degrees of Debt’ and ‘Shifting the Spotlight.’ The ‘Degrees of Debt’ research project focuses on OSAP and how student debt impacts student engagement. My research focused on how students with disabilities are affected by OSAP and student debt post-graduation. I created a systems map to show how different factors of being a student with a disability lead to increased student debt and less student engagement. That was the first project, and then the ‘Shifting the Spotlight’ case study focused more on the learning outcomes of students involved in social innovation in higher education.
"The work I’ve gotten to do with OSI makes me feel prepared. Learning how to write a literature review and synthesizing and coding data are skills that I'll be able to apply in my masters and beyond!"
Were there any new learnings or key insights that stand out from the projects you worked on?
The research skills that I've built are a great tool that I’ll use in my future endeavours. I'm hoping to complete my MSW next year, and the work I’ve gotten to do with OSI makes me feel prepared. Learning how to write a literature review and synthesizing and coding data are skills that I'll be able to apply in my masters and beyond! I’m so thankful for the exposure and opportunity to work in a professional environment on research.
What advice would you give to other students in social work or similar areas of study who want to get more involved with social innovation and social justice work?
Find something that you’re passionate about! It took me a while to find my passion, but I've been able to narrow down my passions through the different experiences I’ve had. So, put yourself out there and try to get as many experiences as you can! Also, find an environment that allows you to learn and explore your interests. Working with OSI allows for a lot of growth and mistakes and for you to pursue your own interest!
Lastly, what are you looking forward to next semester? Are there any new projects you’ll be working on or events you’re looking forward to?
I’m a part of the Best Buddies (external link) program, a national charitable organization, and I’m looking forward to continuing to host virtual events with the Toronto Metropolitan chapter. I'm also looking forward to enjoying and finishing the rest of my undergraduate degree. Next semester I'll be exploring potential graduate opportunities and, hopefully, choosing which MSW program I'll be going to - and continuing my social justice journey!
