Trace the origin and development of your interest in social work. Describe any influences that your family, personal, educational, amd vocational experiences may have had on your choice of career.
1. My interest in social work originates from my inner desire to benefit the lives of others. I began my educational career wanting to understand the connection between the mind and behavior, and so I chose to major in psychology. Throughout college and into my employment, I became more interested in the way that people adapt to and are effected by their environments. It was my place of employment that fully triggered my interest in Social Work. I provided support services to a low functioning autistic seven year old within the school system. While this position was incredibly challenging and rewarding, I found myself wanting to make a difference not only in her academics but also in her overall social welfare. I became aware of abusive and neglectful home situations that while I was responsible for reporting, had no influence or knowledge of the outcomes. This is where I became aware that I was on the wrong side of my career. Instead of being the one making the reports, I wanted to be the one that was being reported too. I wanted to be the person that provided guidance and assistance. I wanted to be responsible for making her overall situation more favorable. Unfortunately, my ability to assist was limited because of licensing requirements. My immediate goal is to become a licensed social worker. I want to educate myself so that I can obtain the tools necessary to advocate, assist, and protect children and families with any issues that may occur.
1. My interest in social work originates from my inner desire to benefit the lives of others. I began my educational career wanting to understand the connection between the mind and behavior, and so I chose to major in psychology. Throughout college and into my employment, I became more interested in the way that people adapt to and are effected by their environments. It was my place of employment that fully triggered my interest in Social Work. I provided support services to a low functioning autistic seven year old within the school system. While this position was incredibly challenging and rewarding, I found myself wanting to make a difference not only in her academics but also in her overall social welfare. I became aware of abusive and neglectful home situations that while I was responsible for reporting, had no influence or knowledge of the outcomes. This is where I became aware that I was on the wrong side of my career. Instead of being the one making the reports, I wanted to be the one that was being reported too. I wanted to be the person that provided guidance and assistance. I wanted to be responsible for making her overall situation more favorable. Unfortunately, my ability to assist was limited because of licensing requirements. My immediate goal is to become a licensed social worker. I want to educate myself so that I can obtain the tools necessary to advocate, assist, and protect children and families with any issues that may occur.