Charting New Paths in Growth, Balance, and Purpose
For this month’s Faculty Highlight, we sat down with Gwen Bonilla, LSW, our Clinic & Internship Director, to learn more about her mid-career journey into social work, her experience balancing family and grad school, and the lessons she shares with new students finding their own path.
What inspired you to make a mid-career change into Social Work?
I had been (very happily) working as a case manager and program director in human services for many years. As my son turned 16 and I was entering a new stage of life, I began to wonder if a change was needed. An encounter with a truly exceptional and life-changing therapist inspired me to make grad school, mental health, and DFI that new stage! I’m so grateful that the universe came together for me in that way.
What was the biggest challenge in switching careers, and how did you overcome it?
After twenty years in the same field and agency, being new at something again was hard! It was humbling to feel uncertain and be back in “beginner mode.” I don’t know if I ever completely overcame it—but encouragement from my colleagues, professors, and supervisors helped me trust I was doing okay and kept me from giving up.
What advice would you give someone starting a Social Work career later in life?
Many of us who make this change later in life wonder if we have the energy and stamina—or if it’s even worth it. I remember doing the math and asking myself if it made sense with maybe twenty working years left. If you want it, it absolutely is worth it. I’m so glad those years ahead will be spent doing something I truly love.
How was your experience balancing school with parenting or full-time work?
It’s not easy, and everyone’s experience is different. My son was 16 when I went back to school, so I didn’t have to juggle childcare, but I still had concerns about meeting his needs while pursuing my goals. Some days I did it better than others. Mostly, it came down to deciding what needed my attention most that day—and trusting the rest could wait until tomorrow.
Do you have any tips or encouragement for students balancing caregiving and school?
If you can, please keep yourself on the list of top priorities. Looking back, I wish I had carved out more time for myself—for sleep, a walk, a quiet shower—anything to recharge. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
What’s something unique or unexpected about you?
I started taking tap dance classes when I turned 50!
What’s something students might not guess about you from your DFI bio?
No one believes me, but I’m actually an introvert. I love connecting and teaching—but I also love curling up on the couch with my cats and dog, watching cooking shows for hours.
Gwen’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start something new—and that balancing work, family, and personal growth is a practice, not a perfection.
Interested in learning from Gwen and our faculty team? Explore DFI’s programs and internship opportunities www.denverfamilyinstitute.org
