To begin, my introduction to the social work profession and world was through this 100 level introductory course. I had Dr. Lisa Quinn-Lee as my professor and she was one of the most energetic and engaging professors I had during my first year, even when we got sent home mid-March due to the outbreak of COVID-19. When in this class, I felt myself agreeing with the material presented. My personal beliefs, passions, and thoughts were reflected in what we were being introduced to. The concepts of social justice, not knowing the full picture, and considering other factors pushed me into a different way of thinking. 

       That being said, this class did not come without its challenges. Since this was a 100-level course, we had a mix of majors, especially since it was offered through the honors program. This meant that we were all students coming from different backgrounds and perspectives, which led to clashes every now and then. However, the way we navigated these differences in values and beliefs was to step back, take a moment, and consider the background of others. This mindset has been ingrained in me ever since, and it’s been the foundation of the social work classes I’ve taken ever since. 

       Before coming to university, I surrounded myself with people who thought like me. In this class, it was really my first exposure to views that were vastly different from mine. However, it allowed me to see the similarities and humanity in everyone. To clarify, we tend to think in a “us vs them” mindset, and as a result, we alienate and dismiss those who are unlike us. But, the truth of the social work profession is that we have to work with those who think differently than us, give them our best selves and effort, while also working with their belief system. 

       Overall, even with this class shifting to a fully online format halfway through the semester, I found it to be one of the most influential. It was this class specifically that piqued my interest and knowledge in social work. With the help of Dr. Quinn-Lee, I began my journey into the world of social work, and I began taking more classes. Personally, I would recommend that anyone should take this class, even if you’re only doing it to fulfill some type of elective credit. The basics of this course offer insight that is beneficial in every profession, not just human services.

       This class was a reality check to say the least. Most of our other classes allow us to discuss, write, and think about the theories and practices we learn about. However, it is all metaphorical until you get into a real-life scenario. The fact that this class was a lab-based course, specifically directed at simulating a client/worker relationship, was exactly what I, and many others, needed. Granted, were we the “perfect” clients who were willing to listen and change? For the most part, yes. But the preparation and the work needed before meeting with a client was just as crucial to learn as the skills we need when speaking with them directly.
       Over the duration of this course, I was pushed to be self-sufficient, think outside of the box, and ask those around me for help. I was faced with an individual’s own story, they were seeking assistance, and it was my job to try and provide resources. There was an additional layer to it, as my client was one of my classmates, so the aspect of confidentiality was even more crucial. Overall, the purpose of this course was to help us decipher whether or not micro-level social work was the right fit for us. 
       From the social worker perspective, I did enjoy the class. I felt as though it allowed me to develop new skills in addition to supporting many of my own instincts. However, from the client perspective, it was uncomfortable. It didn’t matter that my “social worker” was a classmate, it still was an intimate setting. To be under the pressure to tell anything and everything about yourself to someone you don’t know that well…it causes a feeling of uneasiness. This is crucial to keep in mind when myself and others go into the social work field, as we have to try and put ourselves into the clients’ shoes. We have to have some inkling of their perspective in order to do our job to the best of our ability. 
       Personally, I’m beginning to see where the application of these skills could come in handy during my internship. Granted, the work I do with my “clients” is in a group setting, but getting to know them and working to build rapport is still a crucial aspect of our relationship. I think by being in these group settings, I’m realizing that I would like to have a mix of individual and group work. I see the value that both of these settings provide, and I would like to benefit from both. The exposure and immersion to both of these settings allows me to be a well-rounded social worker, while also remaining open to learning from new experiences. 

       I was an Instructional Assistant (IA) for the social work department for two classes over the course of 2022, SW 220: Interpersonal Skills and SW 320: Generalist Social Work Practices with Individuals. These experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone while allowing myself to become more involved in the program beyond my own cohort. 
       Given that I changed my major to social work in the spring of 2021 and was accepted in the program in fall of 2021, I was surprised to be asked to be an IA. At first, it seemed daunting, as I felt I was just now learning the core of social work. However, given that I had just taken the respective courses the semester before, it made sense since the material was still fresh in my mind.
       As students, we value feedback that instructors give us, so being on the other end was different. It was difficult because there were times where I felt I was being too critical of a student, as it was easy for me to point out faults. However, building upon the skill of using a strengths-based perspective allowed me to see where the students were succeeding. Yes, while observing students and grading their assignments was time-consuming, it allowed me to not only use a critical eye for them, but to act as a reminder for myself. Being an IA was an opportunity to practice my own skills in an environment that was conducive to learning. 
       Furthermore, by acting as an IA, I was able to get to know the students beyond my own graduation cohort. I find the social work program to be a tight-knit group of people, especially within your own cohorts. Connecting with others in school is a way of networking. For example, if a student I was an IA for reached out looking for potential job opportunities, I would feel comfortable talking with them about what I know. Creating these relationships allows for opportunities in the field.
       Another aspect of being an IA that is often overlooked is building rapport with professors. While we have known them in an educational setting, we get the opportunity to know them on a more personal level. Continuing the relationship beyond the classroom can make or break the college experience. I know that I could turn to these professors for help beyond my degree. For instance, if I’m looking at master’s programs, I’d ask them for advice if I’m struggling with the application process. If I was struggling to determine what area or groups I want to work with, they can share their own experiences and point me in a direction. 
       Overall, this experience was beneficial for me as it allowed me to grow as both a student and a social worker. The social work community is small, so maintaining relationships with others is a crucial aspect of our job.