What experiences motivate you to (a) become a social worker (703 words)
Early in my adolescence, I discovered the value of community-based, experiential learning practices, while working with various social service organizations that support diverse populations. These experiences sparked my interested in working with individuals in a helping capacity, which led me to pursue a degree in Sociology and Child, Youth, & Family Studies. My education and continued activism in the social services have inspired me to pursue a career in social work. I am particularly interested in empowering others, challenging oppression and injustice through community activism, and advocating for marginalized and vulnerable populations who lack the platforms needed …show more content…
My experience with the Student Support Network has provided me the opportunity to grow and develop as a helping professional. Through this role, I have gained tools needed to explore, assess, and support individuals through periods of difficulty. This position has also aided in my development of an empathetic perspective, which is critical for working in the field of social work. Through peer and supervisor feedback sessions and monthly training sessions, I have reflected on my own knowledge and capabilities as a helping professional. My experience in this field has fueled my development of an empathetic and compassionate perspective, while also teaching me the importance of fostering my own emotional resilience and well-being through the practice of self-care. A quote I like to remind myself of when I feel overwhelmed comes from a personal wellness training session I attended, which states that “it is not selfish to refill your own cup so that you can pour into others. It is not just a luxury, it is essential.” As a social worker, the ability to self-reflect and take care of yourself before taking care of others is a critical skill for competent practice in this
Early in my adolescence, I discovered the value of community-based, experiential learning practices, while working with various social service organizations that support diverse populations. These experiences sparked my interested in working with individuals in a helping capacity, which led me to pursue a degree in Sociology and Child, Youth, & Family Studies. My education and continued activism in the social services have inspired me to pursue a career in social work. I am particularly interested in empowering others, challenging oppression and injustice through community activism, and advocating for marginalized and vulnerable populations who lack the platforms needed …show more content…
My experience with the Student Support Network has provided me the opportunity to grow and develop as a helping professional. Through this role, I have gained tools needed to explore, assess, and support individuals through periods of difficulty. This position has also aided in my development of an empathetic perspective, which is critical for working in the field of social work. Through peer and supervisor feedback sessions and monthly training sessions, I have reflected on my own knowledge and capabilities as a helping professional. My experience in this field has fueled my development of an empathetic and compassionate perspective, while also teaching me the importance of fostering my own emotional resilience and well-being through the practice of self-care. A quote I like to remind myself of when I feel overwhelmed comes from a personal wellness training session I attended, which states that “it is not selfish to refill your own cup so that you can pour into others. It is not just a luxury, it is essential.” As a social worker, the ability to self-reflect and take care of yourself before taking care of others is a critical skill for competent practice in this