Application Essay: A Career As A Social Worker

Although it may be troublesome for social worker’s to define what they do, The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has developed a definition to try and allow others to understand the profession. NASW defines this profession as, the professional activity of helping individuals, groups, or communities to enhance or restore their capacity for social functioning and to create societal conditions favorable to their goals (NASW, 1994). I believe as young professionals going into the field of social work, we all have our own experiences, life changing events, and motivation that has brought us into a master’s level social work program. Stony Brook University must also believe this to be true considering their application essay encompasses
My mother pulled me aside one night and explained to my younger self that she was battling a life threatening eating disorder and that she had been receiving treatment for this for the majority of her life. At the time, I was too young to understand the details, but little did I know I was picking up on a lot more than I thought. Through my childhood and adolescence I myself began my own battle with an eating disorder. I was exposed to many others who have struggled, professionals, and advocates along my journey. In my recovery, I attended many talks and was exposed to many support groups. This has given me an insight into how little people know about eating disorders and the many aspects that go into treatment. This is a population I know a lot about and can identify with. My knowledge and experiences drive my passion for helping others who are in the shoes I once wore. Although I have had a past of pain and struggle I feel empowerment and accomplished to be in a much better place. I identify with the eating disorder community and I think that gives me strength as a professional who wants to help others with eating disorders. Bell (2007), states that empowered group members reject their status and oppression and takes pride in their identity. For myself, I would never take back my struggles because if my individual story can help even one person I
They were able to include the many aspects of social work in such a small statement. Since this is a very broad profession it is difficult to define the field. Although their definition is powerful, each social worker has their own story and their own definition for what they do and why this field is so important to them. My history has empowered me to pursue this career and use my knowledge and experience to help