Linda Armstrong

Linda Armstrong grew up in Miami Gardens in a single-parent household with nine siblings, two of whom were foster siblings. Her father, whom she describes as her best friend, passed away from cancer when Linda was 16 years old. Although her father only had a 2^nd grade education, he shaped her life and instilled in her the importance of education, telling her: “Books first, boys later!” 

After his death, Linda went through dark times and even attempted suicide. But she turned her life around and decided to study social work so that she could help others like her survive and thrive.   

Earning her degree was not easy. She was an unemployed single mother to a son with autism. Linda would go to sleep in tears, not knowing how her bills would be paid and doubting she would be able to make it to graduation.

With the help of grants such as the Stempel Scholarship, Braman Family Completion Scholarship, Opportunity Grant, Upper Division Grant, Differential Grant, and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Linda made ends meet. She is now graduating with a 3.8 GPA. She completed her field practicum at the Miramar Police Department Victim Services Unit, where she received praise for her commitment to social justice and interventions to improve clients’ lives. 

Linda’s goal is to earn a master’s degree in social work at FIU and eventually become a licensed clinical medical social worker, certified in forensic interviewing.

By Jessica Drouet
Senior Account Manager
Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work