Why I am applying for a Graduate Degree in Social Work
My motivation and passion to study for a graduate degree in social work is premised on my childhood dream to give service to the community. To realize my dream, I have remained committed to gaining relevant experience in social work settings with emphasis on engaging in programs that aim at social change, problem solving and empowering people through relationships both at micro and macro levels. In these roles, I gained knowledge in capacity building and the ability to focus on not only the mental illnesses, but also how to interact with people suffering with mental problems holistically, including social and political problems that have a bearing on their health (Mailick & Caroff, 2012).
Necessary Background in the Field of Social Health
During my undergraduate studies and upon completion, I have worked as an intern in social work in which I gained various skills and attributes necessary for this profession (Coppock & Dunn, 2009). They include positive attitude, social education, and knowledge in social education theories. Additional skills involved mental counseling and guidance for patients that need primary and behavioral health treatment. Additionally, I gained in-depth skills by talking to experienced professionals in social work, including those with experiences in mental treatment, psychology and counseling. All these professionals offered me invaluable insight into the role of a social worker in delivering solutions to the community.
Relevant Skills that I Possess for Social Work
Having interacted with the clients and experienced social workers handling primary and behavioral health issues, I appreciate the challenges that many social workers face. It requires me to develop the ability to adopt a multi-dimensional and multi-agency approaches to handle complex tasks of this nature (Coppock & Dunn, 2009). I also understand that I shall be required to demonstrate organizational, multitasking as well as problem solving skills.
I have gained all these important skills through my undergraduate studies as well as experience as a social work intern. In addition, I possess strong communication skills, advocacy and research skills—all of which will be essential in pursuing the course and in supporting me throughout my professional career as a social worker. I exhibit several personal qualities, including the ability to handle delicate situations and demonstrated tact. This set of qualities makes me build a strong case that supports my suitability to take on this demanding profession through my graduate studies.
Why I am Interested in Applying at Your Institution
I am particularly interested in applying to your University because of the impressive research on social work that has made the institution become one of the global institutions that contribute to the growth of the field. I have a strong passion to work with people who are disenfranchised by mental-related illnesses with a belief that they can also live a meaningful life once again. Numerous research papers written by professors in the social work department touching on my areas of interest have made me to consciously choose to study at your institution. I am extremely inspired and subsequently made to believe that this kind of research will influence my career and change the way people view mental health and social work.
I plan to utilize the knowledge I shall gain from this course to contribute to the literature in the field, which can be used to improve policy interventions, theory and practice of social work (Mailick & Caroff, 2012). With the professional assistance from one of your highly experienced professors in the field, I hope to qualify in my area and believe that my research findings will serve to motivate me even as I look forward to being part of the global researchers shaping the field of primary and behavioral health.
References
Coppock, V., & Dunn, B. (2009). Understanding Social Work Practice in Mental Health. New York, NY:.SAGE.
Mailick, M.D., & Caroff, P. (2012). Professional Social Work Education and Health Care: Challenges for the Future. New York, NY: Routledge.