There’s more than one way to be a social worker
Are you wondering what is involved in being a social worker? In reality, many people don’t understand that they already are doing the work of a social worker. Perhaps this seems confusing, so let’s first take a look at what images are conjured up when we think of a social worker.
For some, being a social worker brings to mind the Department of Social Services. Within this government entity is found the typical worker that handles child welfare, family services, food stamps and other emergency or non-emergency services. Perhaps others may see a specific role that has been exploited on TV and in the movies, such as taking children from their homes for suspected abuses against them. Workers may be seen as assisting those that are living in the streets toward a better life.
Regardless of what views you have of being a social worker, and what is involved, there is an absolutely endless amount of specific roles that an individual can have that can be classified as ‘social worker’. For example, do you regularly find yourself being asked for advice or help with other's situations? Then you are doing the work of a social worker. Do you volunteer for humanitarian efforts, such as at your local food bank? Then you are acting as a social worker. Maybe you work in human resources assisting employees in sifting through their benefits paperwork—social worker. Even summer camp counselor jobs are social work.
There is a bounty of positions many social workers hold that don’t necessarily involve getting a degree that is focused on the field. However, a bachelors ormaster’s degreein social work (BSW, MSW) would open up the opportunities and salary range that might peak your interest.
One particular opportunity that has great significance is that of prison social worker. Within this role there are varying positions such as counselor to inmates and reintegration mentor. Depending on facility, a BSW or MSW may be required.
Additionally, if this is of interest to you and you have a desire to see inmates reformed as a productive part of society, there are roles within community corrections as well. And if you like the idea of volunteering then your opportunities are endless since well-paid jobs in this field are scare. Scarcity of jobs in this area is a tragedy as it seems that it is a much needed-area and there never are enough workers for the amount of persons needing help in becoming productive citizens once again.
But if pursuing higher education, or another degree is not available for you, consider that you might already be doing social work now. At the least, consider the opportunities that are available to anyone who has a passion for helping others.
Being a social worker involves compassion for the human spirit, a desire to uplift others and a willingness to give of yourself in order to make a difference. First and foremost, being a social worker involves the utilization of a strength's based perspective. This simply means you believe that allpersonshave positive attributes that can be built upon and that you are willing to focus upon that end.
