Junior Social Work major Ashley Stupp Barnes wanted a school far enough away to be a resident but close enough for the occasional visit home. GMercyU was just the right fit for the Methacton High School graduate. After receiving a generous scholarship, she was sold.
What she loves most about GMercyU is the campus community and sense of belonging she feels here.
Campus Life
On campus, Ashley serves as a Resident Assistant (RA) where her primary responsibilities include fostering a sense of community, crisis management, sharing information with residents, and more. She is also the Co-President of the Social Work and Psychology Club (SWAP), a member of Alpha Lambda Delta and Phi Alpha Honor Society, and the Community Service Board Representative for the Residence Hall Association.
Ashley has taken part in several Alternative Break experiences. She’s traveled to Benson, VT; McAllen, TX; and Dublin, Ireland. In Vermont, Ashley worked with her peers at the Eco-Spirituality Center, helping rural communities learn about Earth, build spirituality, and complete farm work. In Texas, Ashley traveled to the border to work in a community center and service shelter for individuals who just crossed the border.
As part of her trip to Ireland, Ashley took part in the Young Mercy Leadership Conference. There, she learned about Mercy through leadership activities and workshops and explored Irish culture and customs.
In addition to Alternative Break experiences, Ashley has participated in several day service trips. She’s traveled to an adult day care center in Philadelphia, Pa. to help facilitate activities; Cradles to Crayons in Philadelphia, Pa.; and Bead Bag Food Program in Souderton, Pa.
Social Work Experience
Ashley chose to major in Social Work because she has a desire to work with the community and to advocate for political change.
She’s loved her experience thus far, and has enjoyed the support and insights that Social Work Program Director Dr. Janice Nuss has provided throughout her educational journey.
While she looks forward to completing an internship, Ashley has shadowed a social service provider for her Introduction to Social Work class. In the class, she worked at Foulkeways Retirement Community shadowing the Spiritual Care Coordinator.
After graduating in May 2026, Ashley plans to earn a Master of Social Work degree, which will take one year instead of two, thanks to GMercyU’s advanced standing in CSWE’s master’s degree programs.
