My Social Work Journey
Before my msw
I was a formally trained teacher, who was working in the field of preventative education through a non-profit organization: Children of the Street Society (COS).
COS provided invaluable exposure to social justice issues, including the issue of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. The experience that was gained through my one-year contract as a workshop facilitator with COS served as a springboard into social work. This experience ignited my passion for social justice as well as drove me to discover the underlying theories and models that provide the foundations for successful interventions and larger systemic change.
Click here to view my MSW entrance letter.
During my MSW
I struggled to identify and articulate who I was as a social worker. The lessons that I had learned in my teacher training were often challenged and I began to think more critically about the education system and its role in oppressing others.
In my first year of study I was introduced to Moreau's (1989) structural theory. This theory resonated with me. It provided a framework to view and address social justice issues as well as linked to my previous work with COS.
In that same year, I also refined some of my clinical skills. Although, I am a community social worker I found that my interests were divided. I pursued additional knowledge on counselling theories and approaches through personal reading, course electives, and practicum experiences.
For example, in my practicum I was able to practice both micro and macro level skills. I was a family caseworker as well as a curriculum developer and workshop facilitator. In my final evaluation, it was clear that my macro level skills were my strongest asset. Here is an excerpt from my final practicum evaluation:
"Amanda's skills at the macro level have been exemplary, especially in the Social Justice Art
Program. So far more than one agency is interested in learning and running the program" (Sr
Elma Gustav, 2015).
After my MSW
After completing my MSW program, I am aware of how much I have yet to learn. What the program offered was a new perspective; it provided me with theories and frameworks which function as a lens from which to view the world.
Over the past two years I have grown in confidence with the development of new skills and knowledge. I have been taught how to write funding proposals; learned new counselling techniques; and I have honed my presentation skills. My "sparkling moments" include my final practicum in Saint Lucia where I developed and designed a preventative education program for at-risk youth and assisted in the transition of four youth out of the foster care system.
From here, I wish to continue my work in the field of preventative education. I desire to expand my skill set by seeking out further training opportunities in program evaluation and funding proposals, which I recognize are important to any program delivery. I hope to maintain my present relationships with my mentors and I wish to meet new mentors along my journey. Lastly, I desire to work in direct service provision with youth, who continually challenge my way of thinking; teach me new approaches to learning and life; and inspire me to improve my own working knowledge so I can better support their needs and growth.