VCU School of Social Work

At her core, Nicki Lee defines herself as a dancer and social worker. Four years after earning her Ph.D. in Social Work, she has found a way to choreograph her life’s two passions into a career in teaching.

“I love the learning and teaching process,” said Lee, who traces her career steps back to her undergraduate education. “I have a degree in geology and a minor in psychology. As I began exploring career options, I figured out that I loved research but missed human contact.”

Lee entered the nonprofit human services arena right out of college. She knew she needed more technical knowledge in order to succeed, and quickly figured out that a master’s degree in social work would benefit her.

“I thought about the clinical route but only for a quick second,” Lee said. “I chose the macro route because of my interest in research.”

It was while pursuing her master’s that she met VCU School of Social Work professors Kia Bentley, Mary Katherine O’Connor and Ellen Netting.

“They provided honest feedback and helped me to evaluate my strengths and weaknesses,” Lee remembered. They encouraged her to apply to the doctoral program where Lee’s idea was to eventually teach.

When she graduated in 2004, Lee said she was faced with many options and chose to stick with what was familiar: the nonprofit sector.

For nearly four years, Lee played an integral role in developing programs at the YWCA of Richmond; however, on the side, she continued to teach as an adjunct instructor for the School of Social Work.

“Teaching has been a constant in my life,” Lee said. “I’m fascinated about how people learn.”

But Lee found that she was still missing one key component — dance.

“I’ve always considered myself a dancer, and sometimes it’s hard not to see yourself as that anymore,” said Lee, who spent many years performing for a modern dance company.

So in December 2007, she started a new venture. “I heard about Zumba and I was instantly hooked.”

She explained that Zumba’s fusion of dance and aerobics was a natural fit for her, and teaching it has allowed her to incorporate social work practice into the exercise process.

“It’s about understanding how adults learn and about how their bodies change. It’s also about listening to my students and encouraging them to chat about their lives,” Lee added.

She said teaching Zumba has been a wonderful and easy transition, and she credits the support she received from the faculty at the School of Social Work.

“It’s really important to conduct an accurate self-assessment, and to get feedback from the people you trust and who share similar qualities as yourself.”

She added this advice for prospective students:

“Take a risk with what you like. Remember that our work life is a tremendous part of our everyday life. It is important to find meaning and passion in what you do. In essence, try to find your niche and really love what you do.”

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