Social Work Aspirations

Mark Twain once said, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” Higher education was a goal that was instilled in me at a young age. My siblings and I all have great aspirations. I admire each of them, because each one is great individually. My two sisters both work in social services, one a social service supervisor, the other a supervisor over several social work departments. One of my brothers is in his third and final year at Temple Law School. A second brother, a University of Pennsylvania grad, is presently in his application process to law school. My “little brother” will soon be finishing at PITT with plans to go to medical …show more content…
I was very fortunate to be able to experience these social work classes. Taking a class on social policy taught me about the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of social work. It showed me the importance of social work on all levels and how they fit together cohesively. I left the class with a desire to influence policies. My experiences in a class on diversity and vulnerable populations, as well as a class on women and gender studies completely opened my eyes. I thought that I was well educated on both subjects, but I learned so much more about diversity and oppression. I have a passion for helping those in vulnerable populations because of what I learned in these classes. Social Services for children showed me the harsh reality of social work. Not every case will be perfectly solved and as social workers we must have the strength to continue, knowing we did our best. Lastly, my sister is a supervisor over several social work departments in Buccome County North Carolina. She recently gave a TED Talk about social work, and how to build programs of resiliency within communities, especially communities in which children have experienced great childhood adversity. I was there to hear her speech, as well as the speeches of other social workers from all over the nation. It was both incredible and energizing to be in a room of likeminded …show more content…
Social workers often deal with emotional draining situations. My mental strength and resilience will help me push through when things get tough. In situations when most people would give in to pressure, I excel. However, when I do become stressed, which is rare, I practice self-care. I also accept individuals for who they are. It is very important to accept people as they are and cherish their differences. Therefore, I am able to see things from different perspectives and understand different experiences. Many people have complimented me on my listening skills. Before I tell them about my aspirations to be a clinical social worker, they ask me if I have ever considered being a counselor. It is very important for a client to feel heard and understood, and my listening skills will contribute to that. I also motivate others to be the best versions of themselves. Social workers also need to be compassionate. Being genuinely compassionate shows the client that they are entitled to their feelings and that that another person has sympathy for their situation. Lastly, I am relatable. Not all social workers have endured the past that I have. Clients can hear my story and see how I conquered what I have been through. Hopefully it will motivate them to do the