My experience as an Oakland University social work student has been exceedingly meaningful and has helped me grow both personally and professionally. When I first started the program, I knew I wanted to do something positive to help people, especially children, but I did not fully understand what social work truly involved. Throughout my classes and my internship, I have gained a much clearer understanding of the field and what it takes to be an effective social worker.
The program has helped me build a strong foundation in social work with values like empathy, respect, and advocacy. I have learned how important it is to understand different perspectives and to support clients without bias or judgment. My coursework has also helped me learn about policies, ethics, and the many systems that impact the people we serve.
One of the most important parts of my experience has been my field placement. Being able to apply what I learned in the classroom to people in our community’s real-life stories, has helped everything make more sense. I have learned that social work is not always easy, but it is both extremely important and rewarding work.
I have also learned a lot about myself during this program. I have become more aware of my strengths, like being empathetic and patient, but also my areas for growth, like building confidence and not taking things too personally. Over time, I have started to trust myself more and understand that it is all part of the process.
Furthermore, I am beyond grateful for the amazing relationships that have been built over the course of this program. The friends, peers, professors, mentors, and every single person that I have met throughout this program have been nothing less than supportive, dedicated, helpful, and simply, kind. These bonds will truly last a lifetime.
Overall, my experience at Oakland University has prepared me to enter the social work field with a strong foundation and a better understanding of who I am, as a soon-to-be social worker. I feel more confident, more knowledgeable, and more determined than ever to jump-start my career.
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