Personal Statement

Throughout my life I always felt compassion and empathy towards others who were less
fortunate. It wasnt until five years ago that I realized the direction that I want to take in my life,
to become a professional social worker. I followed my heart and took the appropriate steps to
become one. I applied to the social work program at Wayne State University and was accepted.
Little did I know at the time, not only was I headed towards a fulfilling educational path but that
my life would change dramatically. I have not only learned and attained effective social work
skills but I learned a lot about myself in the process. I learned that with hard work and
encouragement nothing is impossible. I have pushed myself to the limits and though sometimes
it was exhausting and difficult, I learned indescribable lessons about endurance and overcoming
obstacles.
While interning at Alternatives for girls and working with professional social workers I learned
valuable insight into the aims, values and ethics of social work how they are applied in practice.
Having the opportunity to have firsthand experience within the field has taught me a lot about
my future career and gave me a glimpse to how I will respond in different situations working
with clients. While working in a diverse environment, I have performed cultural awareness as
well as performed judgment free assessments of clients. I have learned how to apply different
approaches while working with clients people and how to use positive belief in the ability of
clients to gain self-empowerment through effective social work interventions. Through applying
these values and ethics in my voluntary role I not only gained a great sense of job satisfaction I
also came to realize how important these are to gaining respect and trust from clients, a necessity
as a foundation for any client work in social services to be effective. I have gained Insight and
practical experience myself of the challenges of working with clients in a social work setting.

My ability to demonstrate personal qualities of diplomacy, tact and empathy in these situations
have further convinced me of my suitability to be a social worker. The competencies that I have
attained while in the B.S.W. program are numerous. I have identified myself professionally as a
social worker; maintaining professional and ethical relationships while making sure that I
perform my task and duties to my best ability.
The time I have spent in the B.S.W. program has prepared me for a career in the field of social
work. I look forward to working with clients and practicing the skills that I have attained while
in the program. I have learned what it takes to be an effective professional who will advocate for
their clients and ensure that they receive respect and are treated with dignity.