Abriana Terrell ('19 MSW)

Tell us about yourself.
I was born in San Antonio, Texas. My mother suffered from mental illness, causing me and my sister to experience a temporary phase of homelessness. My dad was able to raise us by himself in DeSoto, Texas. I come from a military family. I am the only one who went to college. Shoutout to all first-generation college students. I relocated to Fort Worth after receiving a full-ride academic scholarship to TCU.

Why did you choose to attend UTA?
I ended up enrolling in the accelerated master's program. I knew I could complete it online, which was very convenient for me at the time. I graduated with my master's degree at the age of 22 and have now reenrolled back into UTA for a PhD program.

What drew you to social work academically? What do you hope to accomplish with your MSW?
I actually wanted to major in fashion and psychology when I first got to TCU, but my dad suggested I be a social worker "because everyone needs a social worker." Turns out he was right. I have been able to accomplish a lot thus far. I have held supervisor positions and other accolades during this time. It allows me to be able to understand the population of homeless I am serving.

Describe your UTA experience. How did UTA help prepare you for your career?
I love UTA. I did complete my master's online, but I am back for my PhD, so I am able to get the feel that it is organized, diverse, and friendly. UTA assisted with the education needed to be a better and more refined social worker.

What is your current professional position? What do you do in this role?
I am the founder and CEO of YOUtopian Estates. Right now, I wear many hats as I am building a big project from the ground up. I oversee that duties are being performed, help with fundraising, participate in talks and interviews, feed the homeless, etc.

Tell us more about YOUtopian Estates. What motivated you to start the organization?
YOUtopian Estates is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that houses and serves the homeless community. I always say God put the idea in my head. In addition to that, I did not want to work a corporate job anymore. I wanted to take the leap of faith and embark on my spiritual journey doing whatever it is I loved in this life. I love helping and serving vulnerable populations. YOUtopian Estates pushes for peaceful interactions, human connection, love, and kindness for employees and clients. You probably cannot save everyone, but you can make it an environment for everyone to flourish as much as possible.

Describe your path to your current position. What have you learned along the way?
I worked with foster care youth, then the geriatric population, and finally, hospice. I have learned that love and human connection are fundamental and truly important in this life. Everyone deserves to be loved, happy, and at peace.

What's one lesson you learned at UTA that has stayed with you still today?
Make sure when speaking to your professors who have earned a PhD, call them "Dr.," not "Mr." or "Ms." They are very serious about that!

What message do you have for the next generation of UTA graduates?
Major in something that you will love to do. Your love for it will bring the income. A lot of times we want to major in something that is going to be worth it money-wise, but we then become unhappy doing it for the money. Instead, do it for the love. Everyone's journey and niche is different! Embrace yours!

To learn more about YOUtopian Estates, visit youtopianestates.org.