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Front Row Personal Statement

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Being born and raised in the inner cities of New Jersey creates many boundaries, struggles and a front row view of many other things including violence and poverty. For some youth who grow up in poverty, violence is a part of their everyday life and can consume them before they are able to accomplish any of their achievements. It was reported that in 2013 Paterson, New Jersey had 1,513 violent crimes; 845 of those violent crimes were robberies, 625 were crimes of aggravated assault and 18 homicides (Malinconico, 2014). For youth being raised in impoverished cities where violence is not only common but expected and sometimes accepted (by the younger population) a career, college or even a future are not guaranteed. My hometown of Paterson …show more content…

As a care manager I am about to assist youth and families with their mental health and behavioral needs by authorizing beneficial services. By working as a care manager I am able to see how many areas of the Children’s System of Care functions. Being a care manager gives me a front row view of the positive influences having someone to advocate and assist you has on youth within my community. I am applying for a Masters in School Work because I want to continue my education in the field in order to one day become a licensed social worker. I hope to counsel adolescents from impoverished environments and communities with little resources for youth with behavioral and mental health needs. Ultimately I hope to found a non-profit organization that offers low income families therapy among other services. Graduate school is a chance for me to further my education and puts me one step closer to becoming an influential person that can show youth what can happen by believing in one’s own potential. I have always been fond of the saying it takes a village to raise a child; being a part of the Children’s System of Care and a certified wraparound facilitator I feel that I am beginning to become a part of my youth’s village and that my position in their lives is making a

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