My only goal when graduating college was to jump into the workforce as quickly a
My only goal when graduating college was to jump into the workforce as quickly as possible to be able to help veterans and minorities alike. I pursued a degree path that, although pleasurable, has left me with few professional alternatives in the future. Obtaining a bachelorette degree in psychology was a useful personal experience that helped me develop numerous skills, but it was far from the ideal long-term professional option after college. Throughout my life, I have witnessed various forms of inequality and oppression, which has motivated me to pursue a career where I can actively work towards addressing these issues. I have found the lack of education and awareness about mental health in third world countries was a real concern. My coursework in psychology has provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of human behavior and societal structures, further fueling my passion for social work. Additionally, my life experiences have played a significant role in shaping my desire to become a social worker.
It is time to challenge the societal stigma around mental health and start investing in resources for mental health awareness and treatments. Growing up in a low-income community, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals and families who lacked access to essential resources and support systems. In high school I made the conscious decision that I wanted a career in service. At first, I thought that service meant joining the military and fighting for my country. Although that did bring me some levels of fulfillment, I knew that I was not applying myself fully and I needed to find a career field that would service me, my country, and my people. For context, my family and I immigrated from a country that differs greatly from western ideals, therefore many concepts that are normalized in the United States are frown upon there. Coming from a conservative family I struggled to be seen and express my mental health struggles. I used to think this was something only I was experiencing until I spoke to my peers from other ethnic backgrounds, and they expressed the same difficulties. These experiences have instilled in me a keen sense of empathy and a commitment to advocating for those who are marginalized and disadvantaged. In graduate study preparation, I have sought out opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills in social work.
With my MSW degree, I intend to pursue ProSEAD by integrating the principles of power, oppression, social justice, evidence-based practice, advocacy, and diversity into my career goals and specialization areas of community development and mental health. To challenge power and injustice, I will engage inside communities to create inclusive and equitable structures. I will push for social justice policies and initiatives that ensure underprivileged persons and communities have access to resources and opportunities. Furthermore, I will work to confront and demolish repressive systems that perpetuate injustice. In terms of evidence-based practice, I want to use research and data to guide my treatments and decision-making. In addition, I will monitor and assess the impact of my initiatives on a constant basis to make required modifications and improvements. I will actively participate in advocating for individuals’ and communities’ rights and their well-beings.
My parents used to equate the phrase “social worker” with anything bad. They would constantly claim that social workers exist solely to divide families. As a result, whenever I heard the word “social worker,” I was terrified that if I misbehaved, I would be removed from my house and family. This terror existed not just in my house, but also in the homes of many people in my town. That community was predominantly made up of Haitians, Cape Verdeans, Hispanics, and a variety of other ethnic groups. I am no stranger to diversity and because of my varied upbringing, I feel compelled to serve communities like those in which I grew up.
