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Alexis Alebastro
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Ebere Iweriebor:
Improving Children's Foster Care
“I’ve always loved children, and wanted to aid in their betterment,” says first-year Master’s student Ebere Iweriebor. “The foster care system was originally meant to be a safe outlet for those children who are neglected, abused and psychologically scarred within their current homes. Now it’s a system where children are still scarred and hurting without proper care and adults being involved for their own personal gain. As I’ve studied psychology and been exposed to the child welfare system, I am convinced that there is a need for change. I might be idealistic, but children who are suffering in these ways within the foster care system aren’t lost causes. If they had the proper care and opportunities they too will be able to thrive, and not be slaves to their circumstances.”
Ebere admits she doesn’t have all the answers yet, but as she explores the issues in her M.A. program in Developmental Psychology and Evaluation, Ebere is learning where a difference can be made. “I have never wanted to be within the political arena, but I know I want to learn more about policy and understand how it can be used so that -- when I am in my chosen field, be it in the non-profit sector or possibly as a professor -- I can do work that will be used to make the kind of improvements necessary for all youth in need.”
Ebere did not come directly to graduate school after her B.A. Three years working for an insurance company after finishing her undergrad degree taught her an important lesson: “Never work in a field where you’re not doing something that you love. And I did not love homeowner’s insurance! Things can’t always be done just for the money.” Her short stint in the working world led Ebere to return to school. She’s enjoying her time in Claremont, and admits that the geography doesn’t hurt. “I was admitted to Hunter College as well. But I chose Claremont, even though I was excited to go to New York. Let’s face it—it’s March, and we’re wearing shorts! You can’t beat that.”
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Ebere Iweriebor
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