Thirty Year Thursday: Sarina Marsh

To celebrate our thirtieth year anniversary, we’re interviewing a friend of MAC each Thursday for thirty weeks as part of a series call “Thirty Year Thursday.” This week, we interviewed Sarina Marsh, MAC’s 2015-2016 MSW intern from Georgia State University, about her experience.

How did you first find out about MAC?

I began pursuing my Masters of Social Work this past fall, and Midtown Assistance Center is my internship placement through Georgia State. I had previous experience with emergency assistance through my work in the foster care system in Florida, making MAC a great fit.
What was your initial impression of MAC?
My initial response to MAC was that it was very similar to my previous job in foster care, but on a smaller scale. MAC does a great deal with a small staff, which was incredible to see. The work MAC does continues to amaze me. I am also impressed by the fact that MAC has been around so long and continues to do what it does.

What have you learned through your experience with MAC?

I’ve learned that you don’t have to be a specific type of person to positively influence someone in need. A wide variety of people work, volunteer, and contribute to MAC. You just have to have the passion to help and work with low-income working Atlantans.

Do you have a favorite story from your time at MAC?

My favorite story involves a client I saw during my second or third week at MAC. I was still new here, so I wasn’t sure if I was doing everything right. She shared her story with me, and when she left she started crying and hugged me. I knew then that I was in the right placement and pursuing the right profession.