After welcoming four new faculty members at the beginning of the academic year, the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work (UH GCSW) reopened its doors for another new hire.
Dr. Dong Long Lin joins the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work as J-1 Scholar and Professor, bringing expertise in medical social work. Hailing from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, he is also a faculty member at the Kaohsiung Medical University’s Department of Medical Sociology and Social Work.
When asked how his international background informs his social work perspective, he said it boils down to his belief of thinking globally and acting locally, “Social work education in Taiwan has long been influenced by the United States and the United Kingdom, and we have learned a great deal from both countries. At the same time, I believe Taiwan should develop its own social work practices and perspectives based on our local, social, and cultural context. For me, international exchange is not just about learning from other countries. It is also about thinking about how we can apply what we learn in our own communities.”
During his time in Houston, he looks forward to visiting local care service organizations such as the American College of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine to learn how they provide culturally sensitive services. At the GCSW, Professor Lin’s research explores topics of medical dispute resolution, cancer survivors’ return to work, and how couples adjust after one partner receives a cancer diagnosis.
Welcome to Houston and to the GCSW, Professor Lin!