Graduate Spotlight | Santana Dorse, School of Social Work Class of 2024
Life has thrown its share of challenges my way, but I’ve learned to embrace the struggle, to rise above it, and to grow stronger because of it.
I’ve been placed in over 30 foster homes, endured unimaginable tragedy and faced the loss of my father.
But I pushed on.
And more than that, I turned those hardships into fuel for something greater. My story isn’t just one of survival — it’s a testament to resilience.
I’ve learned to use my past to propel me forward instead of letting it hold me back.I’m proud of my journey and the adversity I’ve faced. Now, I want to share it, not just for me, but in hopes of inspiring others. This is my story.
A Light in My Life
Looking back on my childhood, there’s one thing I want people to understand: even though I grew up in the foster care system, I was still just a kid — a person with dreams, struggles, and feelings like anyone else.
It’s easy for people to forget that. But I want others to know that while the system is hard and isolating, it doesn’t define us.
I was separated from my siblings early on, so I had to figure things out on my own. Sports and activities became my escape, a way to distract myself from the chaos around me.
At 16, I got a job at McDonald’s and worked constantly, trying to create some sense of stability for myself. Without a strong home life, I sought connection and purpose wherever I could find it.
And then, my very last foster parent entered my life — a woman who became the mother I desperately needed.
She was my light.
She didn’t just take me in; she guided me. She helped me decide on schools, figure out transportation, and even made it possible for me to have my first car.
Her belief in me changed everything. She saw me, really saw me, and gave me the tools to succeed. I owe so much of who I am to her. Without her support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
“Getting accepted was just the beginning.”
It’s Not What I Do, But Why I Do It
Growing up, I didn’t exactly have a soft spot for social workers.
They were a constant presence in my life, often associated with the most difficult moments. So, the idea of becoming one myself wasn’t even on my radar.
But one night, I watched a documentary about child abuse, and something clicked. I realized that there were kids out there who needed someone who truly understood them — someone who had walked in their shoes. That’s when I decided to apply to the School of Social Work at the University of Memphis. Getting accepted was just the beginning.
I made the Dean’s List three times, maintained strong grades and was honored as Social Work Student of the Year. That award meant everything to me.
I almost didn’t attend the ceremony because my soon-to-be sister-in-law had passed away, but my family insisted that I go.
When my name was announced, I broke down in tears. It was a culmination of all my hard work and perseverance paying off.
Beyond academics, I immersed myself in volunteer work during college. My favorite role was at Youth Villages, where I’d walk and talk with kids in group homes, seeing myself in their stories and wanting to make a difference.
I also volunteered at a homeless shelter, unofficially doing social work before I even had the title. I helped people regain access to bank accounts, apply for housing and more — often driving them to appointments in my own car.
It wasn’t about recognition or accolades. It was about doing the right thing. For me, it’s never been about what I do but why I do it.
A Second Chance
My daughter, Ce’Anna, is the greatest gift I’ve ever received. She saved my life.
When I look at her, I see the little girl I once was, and I feel an unshakable responsibility to be the mother I always needed. Before she came into my life, I wasn’t showing up the way I should have been — skipping class, avoiding responsibilities. But her arrival flipped a switch in me.
Suddenly, I knew I had to step up to build a better future, not just for me but for her. She’s been my motivation every step of the way, and I’m endlessly grateful for her —and for her dad, my boyfriend. He’s been my rock, holding me accountable and reminding me to keep pushing forward. Together, they’ve made me stronger, more focused and more determined than ever.
Sharing My Story
This past summer, I lost my dad and with him, a part of my heart. But even in that loss, a new chapter began.
I met my little sister for the first time — a sibling I didn’t even know growing up because her mom kept us apart. After my dad’s passing, DCS reached out, and now she lives with me. It’s a full-circle moment. Now, I’m not just a mother to my daughter — I’m also a foster parent to my sister. They’re both my why, my reason to keep going.
I used to be hesitant to share my story, but I’ve come to realize its power.
There are so many kids out there facing similar challenges, and if my story can give even one of them hope, then it’s worth sharing. As Nelson Mandela said, “Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
That’s what my life has been about — getting back up. And I’ll keep getting up, not just for me, but for the people who depend on me.
