Ten years ago, Robert Brady was at one of the lowest points in his life—homeless, struggling with substance use disorder, and battling untreated post-traumatic stress. Today, he stands tall as a clinical supervisor, a Rutgers School of Social Work graduate, and a beacon of hope for those navigating the same dark paths he once walked.  

Robert’s transformation began in 2014 when a residential treatment facility took a chance on him, offering him a 30-day scholarship. That act of faith, combined with the unwavering support he received from the staff, became the foundation for his recovery—and ultimately, his career.

"The way the staff showed up for me during that time had a lasting impact," Robert recalls. "They gave me hope at one of the lowest points in my life. Because of that, I felt called to one day become one of them and to help others the way they helped me."

That calling propelled Robert into a decade of growth and achievement. After completing treatment, he was hired by the same facility that had helped save his life.

His professional journey was deeply shaped by the social workers who mentored him throughout his recovery. “The people who shaped my growth, both personally and clinically, were all licensed social workers,” he says. “Their compassion, knowledge, and dedication to this work left a deep impression on me. I knew I wanted to follow that path, too.”

When it came time to pursue a degree, Rutgers School of Social Work was the clear choice. “Rutgers has always had a great reputation in the social work field,” he explains. “Since I was putting so much time and energy into my education, I wanted to be in a program that aligned with my passion for making a real impact.”

He went on to earn his BA at Rutgers School of Social Work in Camden—a place where he endured some of the most painful chapters of his life, but also where he found healing and redemption. “I used to tell Camden police I was a Rutgers student just to avoid arrest, and they’d never believe me. Now, years later, I am that Rutgers graduate.”

A first-generation college graduate, Robert’s achievement represents a triumph not just for himself, but also for his family. “My father passed away in 2015, just before my one-year recovery anniversary. Though he didn’t get to see me graduate, I felt his presence with me on that day. I also have three sons who watched me walk across that stage. That moment wasn’t just for me—it was for my father, my children, and every part of me that once believed I wouldn’t make it.”

After steadily climbing the professional ranks, Robert became a primary clinician and now serves as the clinical supervisor for the adult program at the same facility that saved his life. This fall, Robert will begin the Advanced Standing MSW program at Rutgers School of Social Work. His long-term goal is to become dually licensed as an LCSW and LCADC. He is passionate about mentoring future social workers and leading with the same compassion and purpose that defined his own journey.

Though balancing education, career, and family life is no small feat, Robert stays grounded by prioritizing self-care and maintaining boundaries. “I try to let go of perfectionism and remind myself that not every part of my life will get 110% every single day—and that’s okay.”

To the Class of 2025, Robert offers a heartfelt message: “Thank you. You challenged me, inspired me, and supported me in becoming the best student I could be. Social workers never stop showing up, and I’ve felt that in the deepest parts of my journey. I’m grateful to be walking this path alongside you.”

Looking ahead, Robert remains hopeful and resolute about the future of social work. “As the needs of our communities grow, we must continue to show up with compassion, strength, and a commitment to justice. People will be looking for helping hands, and I want us to be there when they reach out.”