My Purpose in Life Is to Help Others: Choosing Social Work

My motivation and interest in pursuing my Master's degree in Social Work stem from my understanding that my purpose in life is to help others. I believe that Social Work is about assisting individuals in overcoming challenges and alleviating their problems. I am determined to make the most of my life by positively impacting others. I am interested in gaining a deeper understanding of how to effectively help others and I am excited about acquiring the necessary training and knowledge to do so. I aspire to become a skilled and knowledgeable professional who can make a difference in people's lives. Although I have never formally studied social work, my personal life experiences have led me to this field. Considering my economic background and life experiences, I believe I am well-suited for a career in Social Work. I not only wish to educate myself, but also to educate others. I am seeking a career that has purpose, meaning, and allows me to contribute to something greater than myself.

The main reason I pursued my Bachelor's degree in Sociology was to learn and collaborate with others. In all my previous positions, I have become a trainer because I have set a goal to assist the individuals I work with. One of the most prominent skills I have developed is the ability to work effectively with people from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. Although it can be challenging, particularly in my role as a trainer and leader, I have found that I am able to connect with and support individuals from all walks of life. I want my passion for helping others succeed to extend beyond the realm of business and become truly meaningful for those in need. Pursuing further education is also essential for my personal growth, which is why I am applying to this university. My interest in Social Work initially sparked during my undergraduate studies and has grown on a personal level ever since.

As a woman of color, recent instances of injustice have strengthened my determination to persevere. I am committed to obtaining a top-notch education regardless of the cost. The effects of racial inequality permeate our society, impacting our education and healthcare systems. While recent events have heightened awareness of these injustices, the work of social services and assistance programs begins with those who provide support to others.

Autism has opened a new chapter in my life. I have three family members who are autistic, and they have taught me patience and equipped me with strong organizational skills. The process and the people involved in special education have been truly inspiring. As a close family member, I have had the opportunity to participate in Individualized Education Planning (IEP) meetings, which often included a Clinical Social Worker. When one of my family members was asked why he chose to engage in IEP meetings instead of playing with other kids, he replied, 'Because it's hard to make friends.' Making friends can be challenging for anyone, let alone for someone on the autism spectrum. The School Social Worker facilitated access to various programs and set goals, which have been incredibly beneficial. Through the IEP process, we were able to identify specific educational learning issues and find suitable placements. We also participated in group skill-building sessions to enhance social skills. This experience allowed me to assist my family and others by offering small solutions, although I refrained from providing psychological interventions, as that would be unethical. Overall, I was deeply impressed by the Social Worker's knowledge and ability to provide assistance.

The rapidly growing elderly population has become a serious social problem today. I currently work as a caregiver for a heart patient who has also undergone two knee transplants. Through this role, I have come to realize that I am an advisor, advocate, and ally for seniors. I strongly believe that helping and supporting the elderly should be a primary focus for social workers. I have coordinated transportation from home to the hospital and have witnessed firsthand the increasing number of elderly individuals requiring medical care. The truth is that most of these baby boomers will need the assistance of a social worker in order to fully enjoy their lives. One particular example that had a profound impact on me was working with a baby boomer who no longer had any family. Being able to help her and witness her gradual improvement each week, both mentally and physically, has changed my perspective on life. This experience has provided an excellent starting point for my learning and hands-on experience in dealing with the elderly. By assisting this one baby boomer, I have realized the increasing demand for social workers in America and the countless individuals who require assistance. I am eager to hear the life stories of the older generation and be their voice when they are unable to speak for themselves. It is my calling to serve those who are unable to do so themselves, and this has solidified my commitment to a lifelong career in social work.

The thought of furthering my education with a Master's degree in Social Work fills me with excitement. Education has always been the foundation of my personal growth. Truthfully, I am confident that I can succeed in this program and thrive in the field of social work, as I have already incorporated the values of social work throughout my professional and personal experiences. Based on my life experiences and my desire to help others, I am eager to continue developing and expanding my knowledge in this field.