Social Work Personal Statement

"You won't get very far; your mom must be disappointed in you!" This is what my Senior Avid male instructor told me after learning that I was pregnant at the age of 17. He made fun of me and reprimanded me, saying that I would probably become a statistic. Fortunately, I had a very different attitude than the average seventeen-year-old. I wanted to realize my aspirations and objectives. I graduated and pursued my education at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro before transferring to Barton College, where I earned a bachelor's degree in social work. I was hired by the Department of Social Services for my first career position soon after graduating. After three years, I continued working in the educational system. My experience has

As an eligibility caseworker, I determined eligibility for the Medicaid and food stamp program. This involved interviewing applicants for one or more programs available to them through the state. Many clients would not qualify for the programs based on their income so I gathered information about outside sources that would be helpful in getting their needs met. DSS provided information to assist me in building relationships with outside companies, health providers, churches, and generous individuals who financially provided for the community. DSS also helped me build important relationships with clients of all ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. I was always professional, respectful, and caring to everyone. I completed three years at DSS and wanted to advance in my

One goal at each school was to build positive relationships with students, parents, and teachers. Building these relationships helped me learn the background and dynamics of everyone in the school. I was able to identify the needs of families such as food, clothing, and medical help. The experience I had at DSS helped me provide families with resources as they needed them based on certain circumstances. I expanded my knowledge about School Social Work by taking certifications yearly. The courses I took helped me be more skilled in Mckinney Vento, Mental Health, Youth with societal issues, and Parent meeting structure. Along with getting certifications, I launched the backpack program to give our less fortunate students food over the weekends and during holidays. To help our community contribute to buying presents for our families that are struggling financially, I also developed Christmas giving. School Social workers are imperative and play a huge role in recognizing the needs of families and students. These moments show how important it is to be there for others.I feel great when I know I am making a change in the lives of others in order to eliminate the barriers that hinder them from being