Abby Chambers is a junior at UNK, where she’s studying social work with a minor in behavioral and mental health. She serves as president of the Student Social Work Organization and as an assistant hall director on campus. (Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)
KEARNEY – Moments of grace, encouragement and hope have shaped the way Abby Chambers sees the world and the path she’s chosen within it.
A junior from Norfolk, Chambers is studying social work at the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a minor in behavioral and mental health.
She was drawn to the field because it aligns with her desire to lift others up and help them feel valued, especially during some of the most difficult times in their lives. The more she learned about the profession, the more it felt like a natural fit for her goals and the kind of impact she hopes to make.
At the heart of that perspective is a simple belief: If people are encouraged and supported, they can begin to see their own strengths and potential. For Chambers, social work offers a way to turn that belief into action.
“Most people come to see social workers at a low, if not the lowest, point in their lives,” she said. “These people deserve grace and love. Social workers are there to be a helping hand for people, empowering them to work through difficult situations and helping them see hope for a better future.”
At UNK, Chambers found a program that reinforces those values through hands-on learning and meaningful connections. She credits the social work department for providing these experiential opportunities, from practicing real-world scenarios to engaging directly with communities, all while fostering an environment where students feel supported by faculty.
Outside the classroom, Chambers has already begun applying what she’s learned. Her involvement with Royal Family KIDS Camp, a summer program for children in the foster care system who’ve experienced abuse, neglect or relational trauma, has been especially impactful. Serving as a “Big Camper,” she spends the week mentoring and supporting young campers, helping them experience joy and stability in an environment designed just for them.
The role has been both challenging and fulfilling, offering a firsthand look at the realities many children face while reinforcing her commitment to the field.
“I could see how difficult it was for some children to open up, simply because they didn’t know how to take their walls down,” she said. “But I also witnessed many happy moments when kids got to experience something they’d never done before. While camp is very emotionally heavy, it is also incredibly rewarding.”
Chambers also has embraced leadership opportunities on campus. She serves as president of the Student Social Work Organization, helping coordinate service projects, guest speakers and discussions that deepen students’ understanding of the field. In addition, she is active in
Christian Student Fellowship, where she has built strong relationships and now co-leads a Bible study. She and other members are planning a mission trip to England in May.
Her position as assistant hall director in Centennial Towers East further reflects her commitment to community. Working closely with resident assistants and Residence Life staff, she helps create a supportive environment for fellow students while gaining valuable leadership experience.
UNK’s close-knit campus was a major factor in her decision to become a Loper.
“I chose UNK because the community felt very present and even homey,” she explained. “I remember on my first tour at UNK the guide seemed to know someone in every building we went to. This is probably an exaggeration, but it showed me that UNK is small enough to be involved and know people, but also big enough to give me new experiences and opportunities to grow.”
“I can say with confidence that I have grown a lot since coming to UNK, and I am very grateful to have the friends, student organizations and professors who have brought me where I am today,” she added.
Looking ahead, Chambers hopes to continue working with children and families, particularly within the foster care system or a family-centered agency. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work, opening the door to even more opportunities to serve others.
“If I have the chance to help someone see beyond their current situation and want that change for themselves, I will feel satisfied,” she said.
“While I know social work is not always full of these ‘sunshine’ moments, I am willing to go through the hard times if it means at least one person will be better off than they were yesterday.”
