Reflection On Social Work

A. My education in social work, psychology, and disability studies, has taught me to self reflect and be aware of my own values. Through continuous self-reflection I will be more aware of my communities impression of me, and how effective I am communicating with them. In turn I will become more culturally aware and be able to integrate more effectively into my community. I place a lot of importance in assessing needs and evaluating interventions to ensure quality service while responding to the constantly changing locales, populations, developments, and societal trends. These attributes will help me track the progress of my project(s) as well as help promote sustainable changes and services. I work from a strengths based perspective, which …show more content…
The most important strategy for working effectively with host country partners is outlined in the core expectations as well as throughout the Peace Corps Volunteers Handbook, "Recognize that your successful and sustainable development work is based on the local trust and confidence you build…" In order to be an effective volunteer I must first earn the respect of the community in which I live and work in. This strategy entails considerable dedication to learning Tagalog, cultural norms, and overall being respectful. The second strategy I would use stems from my background in social work, which is to meet a client where they are and self determination. I can do community needs assessments, I can gain knowledge from the community and country partners, but ultimately I need to meet the country partners where they believe the work needs to be done and go from there. I believe this is the key to successful and sustainable change, when all parties are involved, heard, and participate in mutual …show more content…
The work I will be doing in the Peace Corps goes straight to the heart of social work. Throughout my service I will use and gain experience working with individuals, groups, families, and communities. When I return state side, I hope to pursue a Masters degree in either social work or international development. My masters in social work would be in community organizing with a concentration in international social work or immigrants and refugees (depending where I attend). I have always hoped to find my way into international social work, and I believe that this experience will give me the knowledge and skills necessary to bring me closer to this goal. On a personal level, this experience will push me out of my comfort zone and force me to learn more about myself and other cultures. When I return from this experience I hope to have the confidence and determination to pursue anything I put my mind