Professional statement.
answer the following questions (3-4 pages). Please use headings for each question.
Without disclosing personal information, what are the reasons and experiences that led you to choose social work as a profession?
What are your social work career interests?
What are your personal strengths that you can bring to this profession? How have these strengths been demonstrated in the past?
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now in the field of social work?
What major social issue do you think that professional social workers should be concerned with? What is the role of social work in relation to this issue?
As a social worker, you will be expected to practice ethically according to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics. This includes working with diverse populations and clients whose values and beliefs may differ from your own. How will you incorporate and uphold the NASW Code of Ethics into your work with diverse populations?
The MSW program requires students to complete a clinical (600 hours) internship concurrent with their coursework. Evening and weekend placements are extremely limited. The School of Social Work is under no obligation to provide such placements. Given the above considerations, please tell us how you plan to balance your internship hours with your coursework and personal obligations. Tell us about any challenges you may have and how you plan to overcome them.
Introduction
Social work is a profession that aims to enhance social functioning and the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The profession is guided by a set of values, principles, and ethics that seek to promote social justice, human rights, and equality. This professional statement highlights my reasons for choosing social work, my career interests, personal strengths, future aspirations, and my understanding of social issues that require social work interventions. Additionally, the statement outlines how I plan to uphold the NASW Code of Ethics and balance my internship hours with coursework and personal obligations.
Reasons for choosing social work
My decision to pursue social work as a profession was influenced by several factors. Firstly, I have always had a strong desire to help people in need, especially those who are disadvantaged and marginalized. I believe that social work provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives and contribute to positive social change. Secondly, my personal experiences with social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and domestic violence have made me passionate about addressing these problems and advocating for vulnerable populations. Finally, I am drawn to the diversity and complexity of social work practice, which requires a holistic understanding of individuals and their environments.
Social work career interests
My social work career interests are primarily in the areas of mental health, trauma-informed care, and community development. I am particularly interested in working with survivors of trauma, including individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Additionally, I am interested in developing community-based interventions that promote social cohesion, cultural diversity, and economic empowerment. Ultimately, my goal is to become a licensed clinical social worker and work in a clinical setting that provides trauma-informed care to individuals and families.
Personal strengths
I believe that my personal strengths include empathy, communication, critical thinking, and cultural competence. These strengths have been demonstrated in my past experiences working with diverse populations, including refugees, immigrants, and low-income communities. For example, during my undergraduate studies, I volunteered as a mentor for refugee youth and provided academic and emotional support to help them adjust to their new environment. Additionally, I have worked as a research assistant on a study that investigated the mental health needs of survivors of human trafficking. Through these experiences, I have developed strong communication skills and cultural humility, which I believe are essential for effective social work practice.
Future aspirations
In ten years, I see myself as an experienced clinical social worker who is actively involved in advocacy and policy work related to trauma-informed care and community development. I hope to have contributed to the development of evidence-based interventions that promote healing and resilience for survivors of trauma. Additionally, I hope to have developed partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders to promote social justice and equity.
Major social issue and the role of social work
One major social issue that requires social work intervention is systemic racism and discrimination. Social workers have a critical role in addressing this issue by promoting cultural competence, advocating for social justice, and challenging discriminatory policies and practices. Additionally, social workers can work with individuals and communities to address the psychological and emotional effects of racism and discrimination, including trauma and stress-related disorders. Social workers can also support efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in organizations and institutions.
Incorporating NASW Code of Ethics with diverse populations
To uphold the NASW Code of Ethics, I plan to approach my work with diverse populations with cultural humility, respect, and an open mind. I recognize that my personal biases and assumptions may influence my interactions with clients, and I will strive to be aware of and address these biases. Additionally, I will seek to develop a comprehensive understanding of the client’s cultural background, beliefs, and values and incorporate these factors into the treatment process. I will also engage in ongoing self-reflection and seek supervision and consultation when needed.
Balancing internship hours with coursework
