Finding Flexibility and Purpose: Alisa Komolthiti’s Path Through Online Social Work

By Eli Meschko

Media & Communications Coordinator

Alisa Komolthiti’s journey to Briar Cliff didn’t follow a straight line, and that has shaped much of who she is today.

Originally from Pathum Thani, Thailand, Alisa has lived in several places throughout her life, including Alaska, California, and eventually Ohio, where she graduated from high school and now resides. Moving between countries and cultures gave her an early understanding of different communities and perspectives, something that naturally led her toward a career focused on helping others.

“I’ve always been interested in helping people,” she said.

Her interest in social work was also influenced by her family. Her mother works as a marriage and family counselor, and growing up around that profession made the field feel both familiar and meaningful. At the same time, Alisa was drawn to social work for its flexibility and the range of opportunities it provides.

When she first considered the field, she thought about becoming a clinical social worker. However, as she progressed through the program, her interests began to shift. She now finds herself more interested in work that operates on a broader scale.

“I think I’m more interested in meso or macro-level work,” she said. “Not just one-on-one, but more like public policy or administrative work.”

Choosing Briar Cliff’s online program came down to practicality. Balancing school with a part-time job meant she needed something flexible, and the online format allowed her to build her schedule around her responsibilities. It has also given her the ability to maintain balance in her day-to-day life.

“That flexibility makes everything more manageable,” she said.

Rather than being tied to a single location, Alisa has been able to continue her education wherever she is, something she sees as one of the biggest advantages of online learning.

“I like that I’m not bound to one place,” she said. “I can travel and still keep up with my courses.”

Even in an online environment, she has found strong support from Briar Cliff’s faculty, which has helped shape her overall experience in the program.

As she looks ahead to graduation, Alisa is focused on starting her career in social work while also exploring opportunities closer to home. Her mother is in the process of launching a nonprofit, and Alisa hopes her degree and future licensure will allow her to contribute in a meaningful way.

For students considering an online program, her advice is simple.

“If you want flexibility, I would definitely recommend it,” she said.

For Alisa, the path has been anything but typical, but it is that journey that continues to shape her goals and her desire to make a broader impact in the field of social work.