how to write social work essay

10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)

Get inspired by some of the best MSW personal statement examples below.

These personal statement examples are inspired by actual essays from students with whom we’ve collaborated, essays that contributed to their successful admissions. For confidentiality, key details have been altered.

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Table of Contents

Example 1: NYU MSW Personal Statement Sample

Prompt: ‘why i want to be a social worker’ essay.

At the tender age of five, as my family faced the challenges of immigrating to the United States, I quickly became attuned to the complexities surrounding us. This early brush with adversity sparked my quest for understanding, especially in the realm of adolescent experiences. Growing up in a household where my mother tirelessly cared for us, while my father remained emotionally distant, I learned to seek solace in introspection and daydreaming. These experiences laid the foundation for my deep empathy towards others and a commitment to understanding them beyond surface-level perceptions.

My ability to empathize with others, particularly adolescents, has been a guiding force in my life. Working with XXXX as a counselor, I revisited my own teenage years, recognizing the crucial need for guidance during this transformative phase. This realization has fueled my determination to specialize in counseling and therapy for adolescents, a path I am eager to pursue through NYU’s Master of Social Work program. I am convinced that effective counseling during adolescence is pivotal in shaping capable, responsible adults.

My internship at XXXX Health was a turning point. Observing clinical behavioral health therapists and working alongside a psychiatrist specializing in post-incarceration life, I gained profound insights into the long-lasting impact of disrupted adolescent experiences. Hearing the narratives of former inmates underscored the importance of early intervention in defining one’s identity. This experience intensified my desire to work with young individuals struggling to find their place in the world.

Choosing NYU Silver was a natural decision. The school’s esteemed faculty, particularly Dr. Kirk Jae James, resonates with my journey as an immigrant. Dr. James’ dedication to overcoming his challenging past and disproving stereotypes is not just inspiring; it mirrors the resilience and determination I strive to embody. His work with those affected by mass incarceration aligns closely with my aspiration to be a clinical therapist who can bring change to young lives.

New York City, the vibrant and diverse backdrop of NYU Silver, also greatly appeals to me. The city’s rich history of nurturing notable figures like Andy Warhol, Roy Halston, and Jean Basquiat speaks to its capacity to foster self-discovery and belonging. I am excited to immerse myself in this melting pot of cultures and ideas, which will undoubtedly enrich my learning and practice in clinical therapy.

My personal history, particularly my father’s struggle with his traumatic childhood, has taught me that resilience and determination are key to overcoming adversity. His journey, though fraught with challenges, has instilled in me the belief that embracing the unknown and being steadfast in one’s goals can lead to remarkable achievements. Carrying this lesson with me, I step into NYU Silver poised to embark on a journey towards becoming an influential clinical therapist for adolescents.

My path to NYU Silver is more than an academic pursuit; it is a commitment to my dream of guiding adolescents through their most vulnerable years. By combining my personal experiences with the comprehensive training at NYU Silver, I am ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of clinical therapy, helping young individuals navigate their formative years with understanding and resilience.

Commentary:

Personal and Cultural Background : Effectively connects early experiences as an immigrant to developing empathy, crucial for social work.
Professional Aspirations : Clearly links past experiences with seniors and an internship to a focused interest in clinical therapy for adolescents.
Academic Motivation : Draws a parallel between personal experiences and the inspiration found in NYU Silver’s faculty and New York City’s diversity.
Resilience and Determination : Reflects on lessons learned from family, particularly the father, instilling a belief in achieving ambitious goals.
Career Vision : Articulates a strong desire to impact adolescent lives, demonstrating an understanding of the field’s challenges and opportunities.

Verdict: The personal statement is heartfelt and well-structured, showing a clear link between the candidate’s background, their professional drive, and their chosen academic path. The reflection on personal and family resilience adds depth, positioning the candidate as a motivated individual ready to leverage their experiences for meaningful social work.

Example 2: Columbia MSW Personal Statement Sample

Part 1: Reflecting upon your decision and motivation to pursue the MSW, describe how attending CSSW will enable you to meet your goals as a social worker. What are your immediate and long-term social work goals?
Part 2: Describe a social problem of significance to you. Please discuss it in regard to societal contributions to the origin of the problem, experiences that have contributed to your identification and understanding of the problem, and possible ways of addressing the problem.
Part 3: Choose two attributes and provide examples as to how you exemplify these traits. Choose one attribute you would like to improve. How will attending the MSW program at CSSW help you in doing so?

1. Motivation and Goals for Pursuing MSW:

From a young age, I have been acutely aware of the disparities and injustices in my community. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood in Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of poverty, limited access to quality education, and the cycle of violence. These early observations fueled my passion for social work, specifically my desire to develop community-based programs aimed at youth empowerment and education. My immediate goal is to work in a non-profit organization focused on urban youth development, while my long-term ambition is to establish a foundation dedicated to providing educational resources and mentorship programs for at-risk youth.

Attending the Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW) will provide me with the critical skills, knowledge, and network necessary to achieve these goals. CSSW’s commitment to social justice, its comprehensive curriculum, and the opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty and diverse peers will equip me with a nuanced understanding of social issues and effective intervention strategies.

2. A Significant Social Problem:

The social problem that resonates most with me is the school-to-prison pipeline, an issue rampant in many urban communities, including my own. This problem arises from a combination of societal factors such as underfunded public schools, zero-tolerance policies, and systemic racial discrimination. My understanding of this issue deepened through volunteering at a local youth center, where I encountered numerous teens who had been expelled from school and were at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.

Addressing this problem requires a multi-faceted approach, starting with policy reform to prioritize education and rehabilitation over punishment. Community-based intervention programs focusing on mentorship, counseling, and educational support can play a vital role in diverting at-risk youth from the criminal justice system. At CSSW, I hope to explore these interventions in-depth and develop effective strategies to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.

3. Personal Attributes and Areas for Improvement:

Empathy : My empathy has been a guiding force in my social work journey. A poignant example was when I volunteered at a local youth center. There, I met a teenager named Marcus who had been expelled from school. By actively listening and engaging with him, I learned about his challenges at home and his struggles with learning disabilities. Understanding his situation, I worked with the youth center staff to develop a personalized educational plan and connect him with a mentor. This experience deepened my ability to empathize with individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing the unique challenges they face.

Resilience : My resilience was particularly tested when I spearheaded a community project to revitalize a rundown public park. The project faced numerous setbacks, including funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite these challenges, I mobilized the community, organized fundraising events, and negotiated with local officials. The successful completion of the park not only provided a safe space for children but also reinforced my ability to persist in the face of adversity, a crucial trait for a social worker.

Area for Improvement – Policy Advocacy : My experience in grassroots initiatives has been rewarding, but it also highlighted the limitations of addressing social issues without policy change. For instance, while volunteering at the youth center, I realized that individual interventions, though beneficial, could not alone prevent the systemic issue of school expulsions leading to juvenile detentions. This recognition has fueled my desire to improve my skills in policy advocacy, an area where I see great growth potential. CSSW’s program, with its emphasis on policy practice, will be instrumental in helping me acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for systemic changes.

Conclusion:

Attending Columbia School of Social Work will be a pivotal step in my journey to becoming an impactful social worker. I am eager to engage with the CSSW community, learn from diverse experiences, and contribute my perspective towards creating meaningful change. I am committed to using the knowledge and skills gained from CSSW to fight for social justice and empower the youth in communities like mine.

Clarity of Motivation : The essay effectively communicates the candidate’s personal experiences and observations of disparities in their community as key motivators for pursuing social work.
Goal-Oriented : Clearly outlines immediate and long-term goals, demonstrating a focused vision for a career in social work.
Understanding of a Social Issue : The candidate’s insight into the school-to-prison pipeline, informed by volunteer experiences, indicates a deep understanding of this complex social problem.
Attributes and Self-Improvement : Demonstrates empathy and resilience through specific examples. Identifies policy advocacy as an area for improvement and connects this to CSSW’s curriculum.
Personal and Professional Growth : The candidate’s experiences, challenges faced, and the growth they seek align well with the offerings of the CSSW program.

Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling and well-crafted. It showcases a strong personal connection to the field, a clear understanding of relevant social issues, and a desire for professional growth that aligns with the CSSW program.

Example 3: UC Berkeley MSW Statement of Purpose Sample

Please address each of the following in your statement:

Describe your aptitude, motivation and preparation for graduate study in the field of social welfare; your future career goals in the profession of social work; and achievements that demonstrate your professional promise and leadership potential as a social worker.
Describe your academic and professional areas of interest in social work, including your chosen area(s) of specialization.
Demonstrate your understanding of contemporary issues and challenges in the professional practice of social work by posing a question or identifying a relevant problem/current issue you would like to explore, and how you might address it from the perspective of a masters’-level social worker.

My journey into the world of social work began with a deeply personal experience – caring for my youngest daughter who faced developmental and language delays. This challenge opened my eyes to the struggles of parents with special needs children and sparked my commitment to helping vulnerable groups. I founded a non-profit organization to support children in rural Russian orphanages, which expanded my drive to assist not only children but also adults suffering from trauma and PTSD. This path has led me to pursue the Master of Social Welfare program at Berkeley, where I aim to deepen my knowledge and skills for effective global impact.

My background is richly diverse. As a mother of four bilingual, multicultural children, I developed a keen interest in early bilingualism. For my thesis at XXXX State Linguistic University, I explored bilingual language development in infants and toddlers, focusing on methods used by parents raising bilingual children. This research, recommended for publication as a guide for multilingual families, heightened my awareness of the challenges immigrant families face globally. It solidified my resolve to find research-based solutions to social issues, a commitment I bring to Berkeley’s rigorous program.

Professionally, I thrived as a XXXX Director for XXXX in Russia, where I honed leadership skills by building a team of passionate educators. A notable achievement was our collaboration with XXXX Department, providing educational programs to young patients. This experience was transformative, broadening my perspective on social change and reinforcing my desire to make a meaningful difference.

As a certified life and leadership coach, I focused on assisting Russian-speaking immigrants and refugee women, many confronting dire challenges like domestic abuse and PTSD. These encounters underscored the need for specialized social welfare skills, steering me towards a Master’s in Social Work. My goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in trauma and PTSD, and to contribute on an international scale, possibly with organizations like Doctors Without Borders.

Recognizing the critical role of language in social work, I have been learning Spanish and French to better connect with diverse patient populations. My linguistic background enhances my ability to engage effectively in multicultural settings. To gain practical experience, I completed a 90-hour training at Crisis Support Services of XXXX and began volunteering on their crisis line. This hands-on involvement, particularly during these challenging times, has further motivated me toward my LCSW goal.

UC Berkeley’s MSW program, known for its diverse student body and commitment to public service, is the ideal environment for me to grow. Surrounded by peers and faculty who share a dedication to social justice, I am eager to expand my understanding and prepare for a career dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities.

Personal Experience as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the candidate’s personal experience of caring for a child with developmental delays as a catalyst for their interest in social work.
Global Perspective : Showcases a strong commitment to international social issues through work with Russian orphanages and immigrant communities.
Professional Achievements : Highlights relevant professional experiences, including leadership roles and work with vulnerable populations.
Educational Goals and Alignment : Clearly articulates the desire to specialize in trauma and PTSD, aligning with Berkeley’s MSW program’s strengths.
Multicultural and Linguistic Skills : Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of cultural competence in social work, supported by multilingual abilities.

Verdict: The candidate presents a compelling mix of personal motivation, professional experience, and academic alignment with the MSW program at UC Berkeley. Their diverse background and specific career goals make them an ideal candidate for the program.

Example 4: Cal State Fullerton MSW Personal Statement Sample

The quality of the writing in the personal statement will be evaluated, as will the applicant’s ability to thoroughly address the questions outlined below:

Describe how your personal background and life experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a graduate education in social work. Please include any challenges or hardships you may have overcome on your journey.
What are your expectations of graduate education at Cal State Fullerton in terms of your own development? Indicate any problems or limitations that should be taken into account in planning your graduate program.
Specify your career objectives as a professional social worker as you now conceive them. Indicate the fields of practice in which you are interested.
Describe your experiences with diverse populations and groups, and how those experiences have contributed to your interest in social work. Which population (defined by culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, psychological and/or physical functioning) would you like to serve and why?

While managing an in-school feeding program, I watched a 7-year-old boy take a modest meal at school, and save half for his siblings at home. Another girl expressed joy for the school meals she relied on. These encounters, and others like them, deeply impacted me, highlighting the critical issue of child hunger and food insecurity. My resolve to expand our school feeding program was fueled by these experiences, successfully growing it from 7 to 1,053 schools over five years.

After graduating, I joined the Philippine XXXXX in 2001, managing the Business and Peace Program in the XXXXX Region. Here, I worked with XXXXXX, identifying young Muslims for internships that fostered leadership and peace.

In 2008, I transitioned to the XXXXX Foundation, developing community programs and managing the in-school feeding program, which fed 40,000 children at its peak. These experiences solidified my commitment to child welfare and my belief in the power of social work.

Managing the feeding program, I faced ethical challenges, like discovering fund misappropriation by a local agency officer. I addressed this by establishing direct communication with schools and conducting random checks, ensuring program integrity.

Then in 2013, I took a break to focus on family and moved to XXXXX. Motherhood enriched my perspective, making me more empathetic, resilient, and dedicated to child welfare. Now ready to re-enter the social work field, I seek an MSW degree to update my skills and knowledge.

Post-MSW, I aim to influence policies and contribute to community-based solutions in the Philippines, aspiring to work with large non-profits and eventually with international agencies like UNICEF.

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened child poverty in the Philippines, underscoring the urgency of my mission. At CSU Fullerton, I plan to study social work theories, understand child welfare systems, and apply these learnings to the Philippine context.

With a Master of Social Work degree, I am poised to join the effort to advance children’s welfare, equipped to make a significant difference in their lives. The Filipino children cannot wait. They need all the help they can get. And with a Master of Social Work degree from CSU Fullerton, the battle will have been half-won.

Personal Narrative as Motivation : The statement effectively uses the applicant’s personal experiences with poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to illustrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
Community Involvement and Professional Experience : Highlights significant community engagement and professional achievements, demonstrating a commitment to social justice and positive change.
Challenges and Ethical Considerations : Discusses challenges faced during professional work, showing problem-solving skills and ethical awareness.
Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates how an MSW will enrich the applicant’s knowledge and skills, aiming to influence policies and create community-based solutions.
Personal Growth and Family Perspective : Reflects on the lessons learned from being a stay-at-home mother, tying this to a renewed enthusiasm for child welfare work.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a compelling personal connection to social work, reinforced by active community involvement, ethical professional practice, and clear career goals. The applicant’s experiences and aspirations align well with the MSW program at CSU Fullerton- making them a strong candidate.

Example 5: Cal State Long Beach MSW Personal Statement Sample

How did you become interested in social work? What motivated you to choose social work as a profession?

My passion for social work and advocacy for equality is rooted in a fundamental belief: no voice should be silenced in the pursuit of a just society. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed how advocates for equality are often marginalized, their concerns unheard. This fuels my commitment to actively work towards a just world, where standing up for justice is a right for all.

As a child of Mexican immigrants, I experienced the harsh realities of a low-income household. This upbringing ingrained in me deep empathy and an intimate understanding of the struggles faced by underprivileged communities. My parents’ relentless hard work and sacrifices, despite economic hardships, have been a constant source of inspiration. They taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of community support.

My professional journey in social work began at XXXX Community Development Corporation, where I took a lead role in organizing a landmark meeting with elected officials. We successfully voiced community concerns, addressing critical issues like infrastructure and public safety. This experience honed my skills in advocacy and highlighted the power of active listening and engagement.

Furthering my commitment, I volunteered at XXXX Volunteers in Medicine, assisting in providing healthcare to those unable to afford it. Here, I learned the critical role of accessible healthcare and the importance of educating communities about healthy living. These experiences have solidified my resolve to pursue a career in social work, focusing on advocating for essential services and support for underprivileged communities.

My aspiration to become a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in children’s mental health, aligns perfectly with the academic rigor and diverse environment offered by the Master of Social Work program at CSULB. As an undergraduate at CSULB, I was captivated by the program’s depth and the diverse perspectives it embraced. The experiences shared with students from varied backgrounds deepened my understanding of the multifaceted challenges in our society.

I am fully committed to investing my time and resources in the coursework and fieldwork placements at CSULB. The opportunity to study in a stimulating environment, surrounded by professionals who share my passion, will provide a solid foundation for my career. I bring with me a wealth of practical insights from working with low-income communities, the homeless, the elderly, and drug users. These experiences, I believe, will contribute significantly to our class discussions and align perfectly with CSULB’s mission of supporting vulnerable and oppressed populations.

My journey in social work is a commitment to those who struggle to be heard. At CSULB, I aim to further my skills, knowledge, and understanding, preparing myself to be a force for change and a voice for the voiceless. My goal is to ensure that every child, family, and community I work with gets the opportunity to thrive, just as I strive to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.

Strong Personal Connection : The statement effectively connects the candidate’s personal background as a child of Mexican immigrants to her empathy and understanding of underprivileged communities.
Professional Experience : Highlights relevant work in community development and healthcare, which demonstrates practical skills in advocacy and community engagement.
Academic and Career Goals : Clearly articulates the ambition to specialize in children’s mental health, aligning with CSULB’s program.
Commitment to Social Work Values : Demonstrates a deep commitment to social justice, aligned with the mission of CSULB’s social work program.

Verdict: The personal statement is comprehensive and well-constructed, effectively demonstrating the candidate’s passion, relevant experience, and alignment with CSULB’s Master of Social Work program. The candidate’s background and professional aspirations make them a strong fit for the program.

Example 6: San Jose State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

In the heart of a small migrant community, where the sting of social inequities was a daily reality, my path toward a career in social work began to take shape. My childhood, marked by the challenges of racial discrimination and economic struggle, instilled in me not only resilience but a deep understanding of the complex social fabric that shapes communities. It was these formative experiences, coupled with my time volunteering at a local shelter, that solidified my dedication to advocating for social justice.

Professionally, my experiences have been closely aligned with the values at the core of social work. Serving as a community organizer, I worked alongside local leaders to tackle critical issues like housing affordability and healthcare accessibility, gaining valuable insights into the world of policy advocacy. Another pivotal role was as a counselor for at-risk youth, where I developed a keen understanding of the challenges faced by young people from diverse backgrounds. This role was instrumental in refining my skills in empathy and communication.

Looking ahead, my immediate goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on trauma and PTSD. In the long run, I aspire to establish a non-profit dedicated to providing mental health services to marginalized communities. These ambitions are rooted in a deep-seated commitment to effecting lasting change for those society often overlooks.

San Jose State University’s MSW program, renowned for its emphasis on culturally competent practice, particularly with Latinx and other minority groups, aligns perfectly with both my personal and professional values. The program’s exceptional faculty and comprehensive curriculum stand out as ideal for nurturing my academic and professional growth.

In conclusion, I am confident that my time at San Jose State University will not only refine my existing skills but also expand my perspectives, equipping me to become an effective, empathetic social worker. I am eager to embrace the tools and knowledge that the program offers, to champion social justice and make a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need.

This MSW personal statement sample effectively showcases the candidate’s journey and motivation towards a career in social work. It does well in several key aspects:

Personal Experience : The statement begins with a compelling narrative about the candidate’s upbringing in a diverse, challenging environment, effectively linking personal background to their interest in social work.
Professional Alignment : The candidate skillfully ties their professional experiences, like community organizing and counseling, to the core values of social work- to demonstrate a clear understanding and commitment to the field.
Future Goals & Alignment with the Program : The statement outlines specific short-term and long-term professional goals, aligning them with the strengths of San Jose State University’s MSW program. This demonstrates the candidate’s purposeful choice of program and their understanding of how it will support their career objectives.
Flow and Clarity : The essay is well-structured, with each paragraph transitioning smoothly into the next, maintaining a clear and engaging narrative throughout.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded, sincere, and focused candidate with a clear vision for their future in social work. It makes a strong case for their admission.

Example 7: Wayne State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Your statement must address the following items:

The National Association of Social Workers set forth important guiding principles to address social workers’ ethical responsibility to clients, colleagues, employers and employing organizations, the social work profession, and society.
Describe how these ethical standards would shape your professional social work practice. How would you reconcile any conflicts between your personal values and the requirements of the profession?
Describe why you believe you are a good fit with the mission of the Wayne State University School of Social Work, particularly its urban mission.
Social workers are committed to social justice. Please describe your thoughts on a particular social and economic justice issue and how you intend to use your professional social work degree to address these issues.

As an African American with Native American roots, I have firsthand experience with the challenges faced by underserved communities. This background has deeply influenced my desire to pursue social work, driven by a belief in compassion, commitment, and competence. I aim to amplify my impact in this field by enhancing my skills, and I believe the MSW program at Wayne State University is the ideal setting for this growth.

My life in Detroit has exposed me to the myriad challenges of urban environments, from food deserts to unsafe public spaces and high crime rates. The city’s struggle with deindustrialization has led to job losses, property abandonment, and heightened poverty, which I believe positions me uniquely for Wayne’s urban mission. Understanding these issues firsthand, I feel equipped to contribute meaningfully to solutions.

In my current role with a youth assistance program, I work to prevent youths from entering the juvenile system and help rehabilitate those already involved. Our sessions include group counseling, academic enrichment, and life skills training, aimed at early intervention to improve life quality and academic performance.

My practice as a social worker is grounded in the ethical standards set forth by the National Association of Social Workers. I prioritize service above self-interest, as evidenced by my role as a Direct Care Worker for my sister with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am committed to social justice and understand the importance of dignity and respect for every individual, regardless of their background. My experience with Wayne State University’s XXXXXX program has further reinforced the value of human relationships in social work.

I recognize the potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities. In such cases, I intend to adhere to the profession’s ethical standards, ensuring that my personal beliefs do not hinder my ability to serve clients effectively.

The Wayne State University School of Social Work’s urban mission resonates with my experiences and aspirations. My understanding of Detroit’s unique challenges aligns with the school’s focus on urban social work. I am particularly interested in addressing issues of poverty and economic disparity, leveraging my post-masters degree to initiate impactful programs like fundraisers for low-income students and collaborations with local food banks.

I am aware of the challenges in understanding certain aspects of social work, such as the dynamics of gang involvement. To address this, I plan to engage in continuous learning about various community issues to enhance my ability to serve diverse populations effectively.

My journey has not been without its challenges. While I have been actively involved in addressing the needs of victims of gang violence, I recognize a gap in my understanding of gang culture. To bridge this gap, I am committed to learning more about gang dynamics, history, and the socioeconomic factors that influence gang membership. This knowledge will be crucial in my work with at-risk youth, allowing me to provide more targeted and effective interventions.

Balancing the demands of graduate studies with work, family, and financial responsibilities will be challenging, but my experience in the Wayne State University XXXXX program has equipped me with valuable skills in time management and prioritization. I am prepared to fully commit to the MSW program, confident that it will transform me into an impactful social work professional aligned with Wayne State’s mission.

Alignment with University’s Mission : The statement effectively aligns the student’s personal and professional experiences with Wayne State University’s urban mission.
Ethical Awareness : Demonstrates a clear understanding of social work ethics and a commitment to upholding these standards in practice.
Conflict Resolution : Thoughtfully addresses potential conflicts between personal values and professional responsibilities, indicating maturity and professional readiness.
Commitment to Social Justice : Shows a strong dedication to social justice, particularly in addressing economic disparities and poverty.
Continuous Learning : Emphasizes a willingness to learn and grow, especially in areas like understanding gang dynamics, which is crucial for effective social work.
Personal Experiences : Successfully uses personal experiences to illustrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities.
Realistic Approach : Acknowledges and prepares for the challenges of balancing graduate studies with other life responsibilities.

Verdict: The applicant shows a strong alignment with the program’s focus, demonstrates ethical awareness, and possesses a clear commitment to social justice and continuous learning. The statement shows maturity and readiness for the challenges of graduate study in social work.

Example 8: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

Please describe in your personal statement the following:

Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession
Why you are applying to the University of Pittsburg School of Social Work
How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals
Your special skills and abilities, your strengths as well as your limitations
How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker
Discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you

Printed on my grandfather’s funeral brochure was an old Irish proverb: “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” This sentiment has resonated with me deeply, as I have experienced significant loss in my life, from cancer to accidents and suicide. These experiences have not only shaped my understanding of grief but also steered me towards a career in social work, specifically in gerontology and hospice care.

During my final quarter at XXXXXXX State College, I met a hospice social worker whose impact on families dealing with end-of-life situations was profound. Her approach to helping families accept, celebrate life, and find peace in farewells deeply inspired me. It was then that I realized the power of social work in providing comfort and dignity in life’s final stages.

I am applying to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work because of its strong gerontology program and its commitment to addressing contemporary issues like the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population. The pandemic has starkly highlighted the disparities in our healthcare system, especially concerning end-of-life care. I aim to contribute to this field by developing solutions to these emerging challenges, ensuring dignity and comfort for all in their final moments, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic status.

My work experience in childcare and hospitality has equipped me with patience, empathy, and a strong work ethic, qualities essential for a career in social work. Additionally, my volunteer work with XXXXXXX and the XXXXXXX has given me valuable experience in community service. However, I recognize my tendency to be overly trusting as a limitation. In the field of social work, discernment is crucial, and I am actively working on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.

At the University of Pittsburgh, I am particularly interested in courses like Grief and Loss: Interventions, Implications, and Understanding, and Direct Practice with Older Adults. These courses, coupled with field education in aging, hospice, or hospital settings, will be instrumental in achieving my career goals.

My commitment to serving the Pittsburgh community stems from my deep-rooted connection to the city. Witnessing the impact of the university’s alumni in the field has further motivated me to pursue my MSW here. I am fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the field of social work, but I am confident that the guidance and training offered by the University of Pittsburgh will equip me to tackle these challenges effectively.

My personal experiences with loss, combined with my professional aspirations and commitment to social justice, make me a suitable candidate for the MSW program. I am eager to contribute my skills, work ethic, and unique perspectives to the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and to grow into a compassionate and effective social worker.

Connection of Personal Experience to Career Choice : Effectively links personal encounters with loss to a passion for social work, particularly in gerontology and hospice care.
Alignment with Program’s Strengths : Clearly identifies why the University of Pittsburgh’s program, with its focus on gerontology, is a strong fit for the candidate’s career goals.
Discussion of Contemporary Issues : Addresses the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population, showing awareness of current challenges in social work.
Self-awareness and Growth : Acknowledges personal limitations, like being overly trusting, and the intention to work on balancing empathy with professional objectivity.
Relevant Skills and Experience : Highlights experiences in childcare, hospitality, and volunteer work, which showcase skills valuable in social work.

Verdict: The statement demonstrates a clear connection between personal experiences and professional aspirations. It aligns effectively with the program’s focus, displays awareness of current social issues, and shows a commitment to personal growth- making the candidate a strong fit for the University of Pittsburgh’s MSW program.

Example 9: Case Western Reserve University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Discuss significant factors influencing your decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA).

Your essay should include information regarding your interest in the social work profession, your intended concentration/specialization, and career goals.
Please reflect on how any past school, community, volunteer, professional work, and leadership experiences will contribute to your success as a graduate student.
Describe how you see yourself contributing to the vibrancy of our student body and school community.
Describe any strengths or limitations that might influence you being successful in your field placement.
Finally, please include why the Mandel School is a good fit for your educational goals.

My decision to pursue a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) at the Mandel School is deeply rooted in personal and professional experiences that have highlighted the profound impact of social work. My journey began with observing the complexities of mental health within my family, which instilled in me a passion for understanding and advocating for mental health care.

Growing up, I watched a beloved family member struggle with mental health challenges. Witnessing their battle and the ripple effect it had on our family stirred in me a resolve to support others facing similar trials. This resolve only deepened with the birth of my daughter, Eve, when I encountered my postpartum mood disorders. Through receiving treatment and support, I was empowered to overcome these challenges, which further fueled my aspiration to assist women grappling with similar issues.

In my professional role as a Health Coach and Personal Trainer, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients like John and Anna, whose mental well-being was intertwined with their physical health goals. These experiences have honed my ability to listen empathetically and devise holistic approaches to wellness that I believe will be invaluable in my social work practice.

My immediate career goal is to establish a private practice focused on women’s mental health, particularly addressing postpartum mood disorders. I am inspired to create a space where women can seek help without stigma or silence. In the long term, I aspire to influence mental health policy, advocating for accessible care and support systems that recognize and address the silent struggles many women face.

The Mandel School’s commitment to academic excellence and its vibrant student body resonate with my educational and professional ethos. The school’s innovative approach to social work education, particularly in mental health, makes it an exceptional fit for my aspirations. My compassion, coupled with my professional experience and personal journey through mental health challenges, will contribute to the rich tapestry of the Mandel School community.

Ultimately, I envision my time at the Mandel School as a transformative experience that will not only deepen my understanding of social work but also equip me with the skills to make significant contributions to the field. With a community that fosters diversity of thought and experience, I am confident that my educational journey here will prepare me for a fulfilling and impactful career in social work.

Personal Connection : The statement effectively establishes a personal connection to social work through the candidate’s family experiences with mental health.
Professional Relevance : It highlights relevant work experience that translates well into social work competencies, particularly in understanding clients’ holistic needs.
Clear Career Objectives : The candidate articulates well-defined short-term and long-term goals that align with their personal experiences and professional aspirations.
School Alignment : There is a strong emphasis on how the Mandel School’s ethos resonates with the candidate’s goals, suggesting a thoughtful choice in their application.
Contribution to Community : The statement outlines how the candidate’s unique experiences and compassion will add value to the student body and fieldwork.

Verdict: The candidate’s personal statement is compelling, demonstrating a strong, authentic motivation for pursuing an MSSA and a clear vision for how the Mandel School will help fulfill their career objectives.

Example 10: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

Influences in your life that led you to select social work as a profession.
Why you are applying to Pitt’s School of Social Work.
How an MSW will help you achieve your career goals.
How your abilities will contribute to your development as a professional social worker.
discuss a contemporary issue that is of concern to you.

At just seven years old, I witnessed the harsh realities of poverty, domestic violence, and addiction within my family. These experiences instilled in me a passion for social work, especially after seeing how social workers supported our family through my parents’ mental health and addiction challenges. This inspired me to pursue a career in this field to use my background and skills gained from an MSW program to assist individuals and families in their recovery processes.

Growing up, our family was caught up in a custody battle, leading my siblings and me to frequently navigate foster care and courtrooms. My parents’ struggle with addiction was alleviated by the support of social workers and case managers, who provided housing, food assistance, service coordination, and counseling. Tragically, both my parents eventually succumbed to drug overdoses. Though painful, these experiences further reinforced my commitment to social work and helping others facing similar struggles.

In recent years, I have been actively involved in social justice activism. My roles as a community organizer and development director for XXXXX Summer Camp, a non-profit empowering girls and non-binary youth through music and mentorship, highlighted the need for improved mental and behavioral health services. Volunteering as a delivery driver and food packager with XXXXX Aid during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of community support for those in need.

My experience in event coordination, donor relationship building, and electoral campaign work has enabled me to contribute to meaningful change in my community, such as the successful XXXXX Wage initiative in Oregon, which improved the lives of countless workers. Serving on the XXXXX Democratic Committee for Ward Four, I have amplified community voices and supported candidates who advocate for accessible mental and behavioral health services, safe and affordable housing, and environmental protection.

A contemporary issue that concerns me is the effectiveness of harm reduction techniques in treating mental health and dual-diagnosis clients. I aim to explore how these techniques can be integrated into traditional substance abuse treatment models to better meet the mental health needs of individuals like my parents. Additionally, I am interested in how mental health professionals and addiction treatment providers can collaborate to provide comprehensive care for dual-diagnosis clients.

Obtaining an MSW will empower me to become a skilled, compassionate, and trauma-informed clinician. My goal is to contribute to accessible mental and behavioral health services, particularly for trauma survivors, and advocate for inclusive, culturally responsive, and restorative justice practices.

I am empathetic and easily connect with people, and my resilience in adversity will contribute to my development as a professional social worker. These qualities have supported me in helping my sister Cheyan and in my social justice work.

I chose the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work for its highly-ranked program and specialization in mental health. This program aligns with my goal of employing harm reduction strategies for dual-diagnosis clients. Additionally, its proximity to my family will enable me to support them while pursuing my education.

I am eager to return to the University of Pittsburgh and embark on this transformative journey to become a professional social worker. The MSW program will enable me to make a significant difference in the lives of those who need compassionate and trauma-informed care. I am confident that this program will honor my family’s legacy and empower me to create positive change for countless individuals and families in need.

Personal Experience as a Motivation : The applicant compellingly uses their personal history of overcoming poverty, domestic violence, and addiction to demonstrate a deep-rooted motivation for pursuing social work.
Community Involvement : The statement highlights significant community engagement and activism, showcasing a commitment to social justice and change.
Professional Development : Details about event coordination, campaign involvement, and leadership roles show the applicant’s ability to effect change and work collaboratively.
Academic and Career Goals : The applicant clearly articulates their interest in harm reduction techniques and their intent to enhance their skills through the MSW program.
Personal Qualities : Empathy and resilience are emphasized as strengths that will aid in their development as a social worker.

Verdict: The statement presents a well-rounded candidate with a powerful personal connection to social work, backed by active community involvement and clear professional goals. Their commitment to addressing complex social issues, coupled with their personal strengths, shines throughout the statement.

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Social Work Personal Statement Guide (w/Examples)

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Writing Guide

Professional social workers create a variety of documents, including proposals, case reports, and treatment itineraries. Social work programs prepare students for these tasks through writing assignments such as research papers and essays. To prepare for these writing assignments, students should have a basic understanding of grammar, punctuation, citation styles, and essay formats before entering a social work program.

Professional social workers create a variety of documents, including proposals, case reports, and treatment itineraries.

Social workers handle vital information, which makes the ability to communicate clearly in writing a crucial skill. For example, a child welfare worker gathers information concerning the wellbeing of a child. If the phrasing in the related case report is too complicated, the professional may overlook safety details, which could endanger the child. Additionally, concise wording is important. Wordy documents can take excessive amounts of time to read, which could prevent social workers from considering other cases on a suitable schedule. To master the social work writing style, students should learn to provide necessary information succinctly.

Social work programs may begin assessing writing abilities during the application process through personal statements, so applicants should polish their writing skills before applying.

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Types of writing social workers will do in school, personal statements.

Many applications require a personal statement that provides in-depth information highlighting the candidate’s qualifications and positive traits. Whereas a resume may briefly reference a volunteer opportunity at an organization, a personal statement could describe lessons learned while volunteering or elaborate on personal contributions that benefited the organization.

Schools examine these qualifications while reviewing statements, but they also consider the statements as social work writing samples and evaluate each applicant’s writing skills. For this reason, candidates should proofread these documents and include the standard introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. By following these practices, applicants demonstrate their understanding of college-level writing concepts.

Applicants should focus on strengths and experiences related to social work and avoid vague statements and cliches. Instead of noting their lifelong passion for the field, a student could address a single incident that sparked interest in social work. The school may provide a prompt on which applicants should base their statements. These prompts may involve career goals or ambitions in the social work field.

If the school lists personal statements as optional, applicants should consider submitting a statement to demonstrate their work ethic. However, if the school makes no mention of personal statements, students should refrain from submitting one, given the amount of application materials each school must review each year.

Social work courses may include essay examinations during which learners must answer questions in a limited time frame. Students rarely see the questions in advance. To prepare, students should become familiar with all major course components by attending classes, taking clear notes, and keeping up with readings and assignments. Study groups may also be beneficial.

To prepare, students should become familiar with all major course components by attending classes, taking clear notes, and keeping up with readings and assignments.

During the exam, students should begin by outlining the thesis and supporting evidence. This outline guides the student through the writing process and ensures the response remains on-track. These assessments often require three main supporting points, so students may include five paragraphs within these outlines: the introduction, three body paragraphs, and the conclusion.

Learners should also use time-management techniques during these assessments. Students may allot a certain amount of time for each paragraph, plus time to proofread. Using this strategy, students can write and polish each paragraph.

Candidates should carefully answer the assigned question, ensuring they read the question correctly. A single word can alter the prompt’s meaning. For example, an essay explaining how an event happened is different than one detailing why the event happened.

Research Papers

Whereas an essay may include personal opinions, a research paper focuses on facts. For example, an essay discussing a novel could include the student’s thoughts about the work. A research paper would use scholarly evidence to examine aspects of the novel, such as themes, characters, and historical significance.

Essays and research papers also differ in length. An essay may require only five paragraphs. A research paper, however, may be 10 pages or longer.

Students in social work courses can research topics such as drug or alcohol issues, government policies, child welfare, community involvement, and mental wellness. Social work research papers often include sections for methodology, literature, and research results, as well as an abstract and a reference list that fulfills APA requirements.

Students should use a variety of primary and secondary sources when writing research papers. Citing multiple sources reinforces the student’s claims. However, students should refrain from relying too heavily on quoted material; excessive quotations implies the writer does not understand the topic well enough to paraphrase the source information.

Learners may also submit papers to tutoring services before submitting to reduce the chances of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

How Do You Write an Essay?

Social work programs may require various writing assignments to prepare students to complete professional writing for social work practice. Each form of academic writing serves a distinct purpose, and an understanding of various writing styles provides a foundation to help students during these assignments.

Narrative papers often depict personal experiences, such as memorable vacations or first attempts at hobbies. Narrative works also include opinion pieces, such as book reports. When writing a narrative essay, students should have a clear focus.

Expository writing explores a specific topic and requires the writer to carefully examine the topic. The facts presented in an expository piece can come from research or, if the assignment’s structure limits research time, through means such as logic or an example. Cause and effect pieces, compare and contrast works, and process descriptions may all qualify as expository writing if they are meant to present information. All expository pieces should include a thesis and logical transitions.

Persuasive writing requires students to take a stance on a topic and to support that stance with evidence. Research is crucial to persuasive writing, and students should incorporate multiple sources to support their thesis. Additionally, writers should present countering opinions and prove the instability of opposing viewpoints through facts, logic, and examples. Ultimately, persuasive writing should convince readers that the writer’s position is the accurate stance on the topic.

Comparative

These assignments require students to compare two or more similar concepts, such as political positions, marketing plans, or fictional themes. Professors may assign topics or allow students to select their own. Before writing, learners should brainstorm similarities and organize them into body paragraphs. For instance, a student comparing two artistic pieces may construct paragraphs about color, medium, and setting.

Cause and Effect

This type of paper explains a presumed cause for a specific occurrence. For example, a student may claim that limited health insurance options lead to untreated illnesses in the United States. With this topic, the student could divide supporting evidence into separate paragraphs, such as the cost of health insurance, the benefits of health insurance, and the process of finding insurance information. Using this strategy, the writer covers various health insurance problems to verify the paper’s main point.

Citations Guide for Social Work Students

Using source information without proper citation leads to plagiarism, the act of claiming a source’s ideas without giving the source due credit. Consequences for plagiarism can include failing assignments, failing courses, being expelled from school, and enduring a lawsuit. Since departments require different citation styles, degree candidates should ensure they use the proper citation format for each assignment.

American Psychological Association (APA) Style

APA format was established in 1929 to create a common format for writing. These guidelines allowed writers to more easily interpret one another’s findings. Professionals in fields including psychology, criminology, and business use APA style.

APA format requires specific headers, page numbers, a cover page, an abstract, divided sections, and a reference list. APA in-text citations specify the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number. Students may substitute these details for the work’s title, “n.d.” (“no date”), and a paragraph number or section title, respectively, if the primary information is not available.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons & Hatfield, 2016, p. 23).

Chicago Manual of Style (CMS)

In 1906, the Chicago University Press established this citation style, which professionals in fields including history and philosophy employ today. Students following Chicago style may use in-text citations but often use footnotes or endnotes instead. Chicago style also requires a specifically structured cover page, page numbers, and a bibliography.

Footnotes and endnotes resemble bibliography entries but have different punctuation. In a bibliography, students use periods to separate a book’s publisher, publication place, and publication year. In footnotes and endnotes, this information is in parentheses. Additionally, endnotes and footnotes should include page numbers.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons and Hatfield 2016, 23).

Modern Language Association (MLA) Format

Established in 1883, the Modern Language Association supplies guidelines that many English, literature, and communication departments adopt.

MLA format includes a works cited page at the end of the document and specific page headers and numbers in the upper right-hand corner of each page. Basic assignment information, such as the student’s name, the date, and the course title, appears in the upper left-hand corner of the first page. MLA does not require a cover page, which separates this format from other styles. MLA in-text citations include the author’s last name and the page number.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years” (Simmons and Hatfield 23).

Associated Press (AP) Style

This style, established in 1977, covers wording, organization, and source documentation. Journalists and news reporters often use this format.

AP style uses brief paragraphs and concise sentences to quicken the pace of the writing. The style requires writers to abbreviate certain words, use a person’s first name only on the initial mention, and eliminate titles. Writers should also replace vague words with more specific options.

Instead of using parenthetical citations, writers can reference the sources in dialogue format. This detail and the lack of reference list are AP style’s distinct elements.

The company decided that the new marketing policy was “their best idea in 20 years,” according to Simmons and Hatfield.

The Best Writing Style for Social Work Majors

Most types of writing in social work require learners and professionals to use APA format. This style is ideal for social work professionals, who often work with documents containing vital information. When dealing with these types of documents, clear details and concise wording are essential. The rigidness of APA style helps writers provide an organized overview of the document’s topic.

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

Active vs. passive voice.

When writing in active voice, writers state the doer of the action before the sentence’s verb. An example of an active construction would be, “He wrote the book.” Passive voice places the object of the action prior to the verb: “The book was written by him.” Though the information remains the same, active voice states the message more concisely.

Passive voice is a style error, not a grammar issue, and can even be useful in certain situations. Writers may use passive voice when the noun or pronoun undergoing the action supplies the sentence’s emphasis, such as in the following sentence: “The U.S. was founded in 1776.” Because passive voice serves certain purposes and has no technical grammar flaws, using unnecessary passive constructions is a common error.

In most cases, students should choose active voice for concision and clarity. Consider the sentence, “The food was enjoyed.” The reader cannot tell who enjoyed the food, whereas an active sentence with an equal number of words answers this question: “Jane enjoyed the food.”

Punctuation

Punctuation marks include periods, commas, semicolons, dashes, and quotation marks, and confusing their purposes may lead to flawed sentence structures. For example, a semicolon joins two independent clauses, or phrases that can stand alone: “The dog barked; it was loud.” Using a comma in this situation constitutes a grammatical error called a comma splice: “The dog barked, it was loud.”

Punctuation missteps can also alter meaning. In the sentence, “Please stop, David,” the comma before the name directs David to stop. “Please stop David,” on the other hand, would instruct an unknown person to stop David from performing a task.

Writers may confuse colons and semicolons. Colons indicate a pause before an emphasized idea, such as in the sentence,”She knew where to drive: Montana.” The colon places importance on the destination, Montana. Semicolons, on the other hand, may separate nested lists, as in the following sentence.

“The attendants choose between hiking, swimming, and basketball; running, yoga, and tennis; or weightlifting, bicycling, and baseball.”

Writers should become familiar with punctuation rules to craft accurate and clear sentences.

Grammar refers to language rules for phrasing and wording, including concepts such as verb tense and noun-pronoun agreement. Students may struggle with grammatical details, since the language includes irregularities that alter guidelines. For example, constructing past tense verbs often involves adding “d” or “ed.” However, irregular verbs use different formats; the past tense of “eat” is “ate,” and the past tense of “go” is “went.”

Writers may also struggle with homophones, which sound similar but have distinct meanings. Commonly confused homophones are “there,” “their,” and “they’re,” which indicates a place, shows possession, and is a contraction for “they are,” respectively. To avoid grammatical mistakes, learners should thoroughly study the language’s structure.

Writing Resources for Social Work Students

Paradigm Online Writing Assistant This website guides learners through various stages of the writing process, including topic selection, revisions, and idea organization. Additionally, students may find information on different types of writing, such as argumentative works and informal pieces.
Write Content Solutions This website provides tips on grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure and assists students with researching and citing sources. Students can improve their writing skills using practice worksheets available through the website.
Purdue Online Writing Lab The Purdue OWL offers information on the writing process and assists applicants to undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can explore MLA, APA, AP, and Chicago formats through the writing lab.
Writer’s Digest This website provides articles on creating pieces in specific genres, for individuals with particular levels of writing expertise. Topics include homophones and time management. The website also provides information about writing conferences and publications.
TutorMe This website assists students struggling with essay structure or citation format. Tutors may help learners polish their writing through grammar and punctuation checks and general proofreading.

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Writing Guide for Social Workers

Social workers serve as a link between clients and community resources, providing vital human services that assist underserved populations. Writing is a key part of the job; social workers frequently write documents such as assessment reports, case notes, letters, emails, and support plans. Often, social workers are responsible for procuring and providing services for clients, and their writing skills must be strong to enable the best support possible. The social work field has a reputation for bureaucratic red tape and paperwork, but it’s up to skilled social workers to navigate these systems and secure the most useful resources and social services for their clients.

This guide examines the ins and outs of professional writing for social work practice, exploring the main types of writing you’ll likely encounter while studying social work in college. Along with a breakdown of common types of writing, you’ll also find information on style and citation formats relevant to academic writing. Additionally, this guide includes common writing mistakes to avoid, resources to help you improve your general writing skills, and writing resources specifically for social workers.

Types of Writing Social Workers Will Do in School

Personal statements.

The personal statement is a written representation of your interests and abilities, giving colleges a sense of who you are and why you’re interested in social work. Specific topic requirements vary between schools, but the statement of purpose typically calls for you to describe your personal and professional experiences and relate them to the goals of a specific social work program. Schools also use the statement as a social work writing sample, gauging your career motives as well as your creativity, self-awareness, critical thinking skills, and overall writing ability. Common prompts may include describing your background, the development of your interest in social work, your experience with diversity, or your work experience in the field.

A strong personal statement answers all required prompts in a cohesive narrative. The essay should explain your experiences and how they relate to your aspirations while avoiding clichés and overly generalized statements. Almost everyone who goes into social work wants to help people; distinguish yourself from other applicants by explaining precisely why and how you want to help, and what makes this desire unique. Some schools don’t require the statement of purpose, but you should always complete one if you have the option, as it gives the admissions committee a clearer sense of who you are as a student and a social worker.

In many social work programs, exams take the form of essays completed during class. Professors rarely announce the essay topics in advance, but you can prepare by examining the syllabus and determining major course ideas and themes. You may also be able to anticipate potential essay topics by examining previous course materials and looking for patterns in the type of questions the professor assigns. A study group can also help you prepare for essay exams by reviewing the course curriculum and devising possible essay topics with other students.

Before you begin writing an essay, you should first determine exactly what the prompt asks, which ensures that you’re fully prepared to answer the question. Next, compose an outline with a thesis and at least three main points that support your idea. Ideally, you should spend 10-20% of your allotted time devising your main ideas and drawing up an outline. Essay exams must follow the same logical progression of ideas that characterizes conventional expository writing, so be sure to organize your supporting paragraphs properly. While writing the essay should occupy most of your exam time, try to give yourself a few minutes at the end of the exam to proofread your work and make minor revisions.

Research Papers

Of all social work writing, the research paper ranks among the most common. You’ll likely complete several extensive research papers throughout the course of your studies, requiring you to examine and synthesize many information sources on a specific topic. While a research paper is similar to an essay, several key factors distinguish the two forms: an essay typically expresses your own perspective, while a research paper uses the work of others to draw new conclusions on a topic. Research papers are typically longer than essays and require a greater depth of knowledge on a topic. Potential topics for social work research papers vary as much as the field itself and may cover subjects like substance abuse, child and family services, community organizing, or education.

Most research papers either make an argument on a topic or explore overall perspectives on a topic, and some do both. Like other forms of writing, a research paper needs a thesis and supporting information, though the thesis often changes as further research occurs. Since research papers call for substantial information gathering and presentation, outlining and organization are particularly important, and a topic must be complex enough to sustain significant research.

How Do You Write an Essay?

Regardless of your area of study, you’ll likely complete several types of writing throughout the course of your degree. Different essay styles call for different approaches, and the following section outlines the most common essay forms you’re likely to encounter, along with tips for writing them.

Narrative : A narrative essay allows you to tell a personal story, typically with more freedom than most forms of writing. However, the narrative essay must fulfill certain requirements, such as telling a cohesive, interesting story with a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay must also serve a purpose; readers need to understand why you’re telling your story and come away with a message or lesson.
Expository : The expository essay requires you to explore a topic and make a compelling argument based on your research. An expository essay begins with a clear thesis statement, moves into body paragraphs that support your argument, and ends with a conclusion that sums up your main ideas. Expository writing encompasses many styles, including comparative writing and cause-and-effect writing.
Persuasive : Similar to the expository essay, the persuasive essay requires you to research a topic and make an argument based on your assessment. However, persuasive essays differ in that they require more extensive research and often entail more writing. Expository essays may occur as in-class assignments or as parts of exams, while persuasive essays often function as final assignments with more time to complete. A persuasive essay still requires a strong, evidence-based thesis and extensive supporting details in its body paragraphs.
Comparative : A comparative essay examines the similarities and differences between two or more items, which could be anything from political systems to literary texts. After analyzing these items, you must develop a thesis that makes an argument about their similarities or differences. Some comparative essays focus more on similarities to develop a thesis, while others focus on differences. Like other essay forms, the comparative essay needs well-organized points that support a thesis.
Cause and Effect : This essay type examines a certain event or pattern and attempts to analyze the factors that caused it, making an argument about why the event occurred in such a way. For example, an essay on the Great Depression and the stock market crash of 1929 might examine the various economic and social factors that led to the depression, making an argument about how these factors functioned together to create the situation.

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Citations guide for social work students.

Citation plays an important role in all forms of academic writing, as it ensures that writers properly attribute their research sources and avoid plagiarism. Failure to cite your sources properly can cause major problems in your academic career, and even unintentional plagiarism can result in heavy penalties in the academic world, particularly at higher levels of study. This section outlines the major citation styles used for academic writing, highlighting key differences and presenting examples of each style’s citation format.

American Psychological Association Style

APA style is the citation method of choice in most social science courses, and this format generally serves as the default social work writing style. Since research in the social sciences constantly changes, APA emphasizes the dates of sources to help readers determine their recency and relevance. For in-text citations, APA style uses the author’s name, the date of publication, and the page number. Book citations used in a reference list typically include the author’s name, year of publication, book title, city of publication, and the publisher.

“If the manner of a man’s dying seems arbitrary, his morality is inescapable” (Anderson, 1983, p. 10).

Anderson, B. (1983). Imagined Communities. New York, New York: Verso.

Chicago Manual of Style

The Chicago style ranks among the most comprehensive and complex of formatting choices, and it often serves the needs of high-level academic writing, particularly in the field of history. Unlike most other styles, Chicago calls for the use of either footnotes or endnotes for in-text citations. Numbered in-text citations correspond to notes that indicate the author’s name, book title, publisher information, publication date, and page number. Chicago style formatting also typically includes a formal bibliography at the end of the text.

“If the manner of a man’s dying seems arbitrary, his morality is inescapable.”[1] [1] Benedict Anderson, Imagined Communities (New York: Verso, 1983), 10.

Anderson, Benedict. Imagined Communities. New York: Verso, 1983.

Modern Language Association Format

MLA formatting most commonly occurs in humanities and liberal arts writing, such as English and philosophy. This format emphasizes authorship, with in-text citations that indicate the author’s name and page number at the end of each quotation. For reference lists, MLA format calls for writers to include the author’s name, the title of the work, the publisher, and the year of publication.

“If the manner of a man’s dying seems arbitrary, his morality is inescapable” (Anderson 10).

Anderson, Benedict. Imagined Communities. Verso, 1983.

Associated Press Style

AP style isn’t commonly used for academic writing, but you may find yourself using this style if you’re writing a more journalistic piece. Created for newspapers and other forms of mass media, the AP style emphasizes consistency, clarity, accuracy, and brevity. Since it’s not academic, there aren’t concrete rules for citing particular types of texts, but generally the style calls for the citation of a source directly before or after a quote, often using the words “said” or “stated.”

“If the manner of a man’s dying seems arbitrary, his morality is inescapable,” said Anderson.

The Best Writing Style for Social Work Majors

Social work combines many academic disciplines, but typically, social work courses call for assignments to be formatted in APA style, though this may vary between schools, programs, and individual professors. Your faculty will likely indicate which format they prefer in the course syllabus, but it never hurts to ask. Always be sure to follow formatting instructions exactly, as professors may penalize you for disregarding specific formatting requests.

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

Active vs. passive voice.

One of the most common mistakes among developing writers is the use of passive voice, which makes sentences wordier, less immediate, and less clear. In the active voice, the sentence’s subject performs the action. Using passive voice, the subject receives the action. Passive construction occurs everywhere in writing, but there are easy strategies to help you locate it and convert your sentences to active voice.

Certain keywords and phrases, such as “by,” “was,” and “it was” often indicate the use of the passive voice. When revising your writing, look for these words and determine if they form part of a passive sentence. For example, if you notice the word “by” connected to the subject of the sentence, see if you can alter the construction so the subject occurs closer to the beginning of the sentence.

Punctuation

Improper comma usage often leads to confusion in writing. One of the most common errors is the comma splice, which occurs when a writer connects two independent clauses using only a comma. For example: “I don’t like accounting class, it’s too difficult.” Both “I don’t like accounting class” and “it’s too difficult” are independent clauses, meaning they can stand as separate sentences. To link these clauses correctly, a comma isn’t enough; you can often correct a comma splice by either creating two separate sentences, using a semicolon to link the two clauses together, or using a coordinating conjunction like “because.”

Incorrect semicolon and colon usage also causes problems for many writers. While they function similarly, these two punctuation marks serve different purposes. A semicolon links two separate, but related, thoughts: “I’m glad I’m going to Europe; I really need a vacation.” A colon typically sets off a list or an example: “I always bring three things on vacation: my camera, my suitcase, and my sunglasses.”

Grammar mistakes hinder writers of all skill levels. In an abstract sense, grammar forms the entire structure of a language and its usage, but in practice, many simple rules exist to help you keep track of and avoid common mistakes. For example, many writers struggle with the use of there, their, and they’re, but the differences in the words are quite pronounced. There indicates a location. Their is the possessive form of they. Finally, they’re is a contraction of “they” and “are.”

Another common grammatical mistake hinges on the confusion between its and it’s. The word its is a possessive that indicates ownership. On the other hand, it’s is a contraction of “it” and “is.”

Writing Resources for Social Work Students

Purdue OWL : Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab offers support for all types of writing, with a wealth of instructional material that covers general writing strategies and the specific facets of academic writing.
WiSP : Writing in Social Work Practice seeks to examine the role of writing in the field of social work, with the goal of improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness in social work writing practices.
Foundation Center : Grant writing plays a major role in social work, and the Foundation Center offers resources to connect social workers with philanthropic organizations and improve grant writing skills.
Grammar Girl : Casual and conversational, Grammar Girl offers general writing tips for all types of writers. Most articles highlight common writing mistakes and offer strategies for recognizing and fixing them.
Council on Foundations : Another major resource for grant writers, the Council on Foundations offers online learning and mentorship services that help social workers develop their grant writing and public policy knowledge.

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Application Requirement:

The Garland School of Social Work application includes four short-answer essay prompts. The four essays focus on the following topics:

Social Work profession
Advocating for others
Diana R. Garland School of Social Work mission statement
Societal issues

Application Advice:

Essays are a significant piece of the application to the MSW program at Baylor. This is how we get to know you as a future student and social work professional. We encourage all applicants to take their time, thoroughly think through a response, and engage in strong writing skills. Read through the information below for additional advice regarding application essays:

Review, revise, and review again …grammar, punctuation, and editing matter. Be sure there are no typos or other errors that can distract readers.
Answer the question . As a graduate student, you learn how to write in a concise manner. Use your application as a chance to highlight this skill by answering the question asked of you and avoid rambling.
Read the mission statement . Knowing the mission of a program and highlighting how you identify with that mission can help reviewers understand what you would bring into the program.

The essay prompts are available on the Garland School of Social Work Application. These prompts are available for students to review and begin drafting essay responses. Students will submit responses to the application essay directly from the Status Portal. As a reminder, students will have access to the Status Portal immediately upon submission of their application.

Application essays are required as part of a complete application. Applicants will submit application essays directly from the Status Portal.

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Social work student essay guide

Social work student essay guide writing an academic essay is never easy and social work essays present their own challenges. here, experts and fellow....

Writing an academic essay is never easy and social work essays present their own challenges. Here, experts and fellow students offer their advice on what to do and what not to do and suggest approaches to some typical essay questions. How to write a social work academic essay: the basics Open University lecturer Alison Higgs explains how to plan your essay, develop an argument and include the correct references Writing a social work essay: 4 pointers for success London Metropolitan University lecturer Liz Davies offers four key pointers that will set you on the road to essay success Top social work essay tips A selection of social work students and academics offer their advice on writing better essays How avoid common social work essay mistakes Professor Peter Beresford of Brunel University suggests there are some common social work essay mistakes which can easily be avoided How to write a social work dissertation Professor Jill Manthorpe of King’s College London, explains how to keep your social work dissertation on track Guide to using bibliographies and references in social care Community Care Inform provides a free downloadable guide to selecting and citing resources using the ‘Harvard’ system of referencing (pdf). Avoiding plagiarism in essays The Open University offers advice on good academic practice and how to avoid plagiarism Plagiarism and online forums Online forums can be great for sharing essay ideas but how do you make sure that doesn’t become collusion? Tackling common social work essay questions Some social work essay topics keep cropping up. Here, social work academics offer advice on how to tackle them: An essay on the social work response to a disclosure of child abuse An essay on adult safeguarding An essay on personal budgets An essay on mental capacity An essay analysing an example of your practice in children’s services More questions about essays? Ask for advice and join the discussion with fellow students and social workers on CareSpace Keep up to date with the latest developments in social care Sign up to our daily and weekly emails

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Introduction to Writing for Social Work

Example social work papers, resources for social work writing.

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Introduction
Critical Reflective Writing

by Linda Macdonald and Robin Greene

In the field of Social Work, you may be asked to write in a variety of forms-- research proposals and reports, academic essays, case studies, and reflective writings, for example-- and for a variety of audiences-- for example, your professors, your colleagues, or public agencies. As in any discipline, it is essential to understand the forms of writing common in your field.

This page is dedicated to the types of writing required in Social Work. While many elements of writing in Social Work overlap with other fields (for example, the basic form of the essay) and are addressed elsewhere in this LibGuide, other forms are particular to Social Work (for example, critical reflective writing). The Writing Centre has tutors familiar with the work in your field. If you need help in addition to what you find here, please contact us.

Reflective Paper
Sample paper for Social Work Social Work courses often require writing that combines the use of secondary sources with reflexive writing. This student paper exemplifies many of the qualities of a good paper in Social Work. The assignment was to look at an author and theory, to apply this theory to a particular group, and to reflect on one's own interactions with that group. The sample is annotated, offering comments on the techniques and organisational strategies the writer employs.
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Social Work Subject Guide From the Dalhousie Libraries.
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Social work scholarship essay examples

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In April 2016, I won a full scholarship from the National Council of Social Services (Singapore) to read Social Work in the University of Nottingham.

I thought I would take the chance to share the examples from my scholarship essay that helped me to get into the interview. I hope students reading this will have a clearer guide on how to write their own scholarship essays.

Whilst the scholarship essays from Singapore might differ to other countries, I provide principles here to guide your writing. Throughout this article, I will also include examples from my own personal scholarship essay application. Through this, I hope you gain better ideas on how to use them for yourself.

Writing a scholarship essay can seem unnerving. For one, they ask many why questions. They also seem to expect you to know what you are going to do with your life in 5 years’ time. You might not even know what you are going to do with your life tomorrow!

1. Include stories

A public speaking coach once told me, ‘Facts tell, stories sell.’ Humans are story-telling creature. Without stories, our lives would be less rich. But more importantly, without stories, we make less of an impact on the panel of assessors reading through our applications.

When you tell your story, try to keep it to one. Unless it’s a full essay, including only one will help you to go in-depth into the story.

Focus on the things you did that might relate to social work. What impact did it make?

Write about what others might have said of your contributions.

2. Ask someone else to read through your essay.

Example 1: about yourself.

During Sunday afternoons, I volunteer my time with the intellectually disabled, and see them as no more different from any of us. One of my most impactful moments came when I was teaching one of the trainees how to write in block letters. We are trying out the alphabet “A”. After the umpteenth time, he looks at me, bites his lip, and exclaims, “I don’t know how to write this!” Although he is bilingual and looks like you and me, such a simple alphabet has spawned so much difficulty. They may be obsessive, compulsive and impulsive, but their flaws are no less than our own, and their flaws do not change the fact that they are still fundamentally human and deserve respect and dignity. In my search for a future career, I wanted one that would be able to help me to make a positive impact in the lives of others. (LINK TO SOCIAL WORK) Whilst social work may often be seen as lowly paid, and the fruits of our labor often taking a much longer time to ripen, I believe that the process is what is to be cherished, rather than the end product itself.

We are all prone to our own biases. That is why sharing your essay with someone else is good. I shared my own essay with a social worker, who led me to see certain stereotypes I may have unknowingly conveyed through my essay.

Encourage someone to read your essay and tell you the good, and bad about it.

2. Use every experience you have had.

Some people think that direct social work or social care experience might be more useful. But for many younger students who might be applying for an undergraduate scholarship, you might not have this experience. It’s good to draw a link between your summer jobs and your future ambition of becoming a social worker.

For example, even though I didn’t have any social care experience, I used my experience in the army to illustrate how we shouldn’t hold stereotypes towards the disadvantaged. Social work was my way of reaching out to them.

Hopefully, the following social work scholarship essay examples, drawn from my own application, help.

Example 2: Current work experience

One of my fondest memories of National Service came in the cookhouse as I was speaking to one of the more notorious men. Big and bulky, it is not easy to order him around, especially when we know his connections outside. And especially when we have heard about how an imprint of his fist is still on a locker somewhere, landed in frustration after he was charged and sent to the detention barracks. But as he sits alone in the cookhouse, I feel compelled to speak to him, knowing that his past is no reason to isolate him or to treat him differently. As I awkwardly place my plate in front of him, he looks up, eyeing me suspiciously. I break into a smile and try to make small conversation. Unprompted, he shares about his experiences inside jail, and it is clear that he has not had it easy inside. But as I hear about his plans to begin work as a car salesman before eventually setting up a zi char store, whipping up dishes people love, I greatly admire the hope he holds deep within. His face is lit with optimism of a better future, and his scowl has disappeared. Army has indeed exposed me to a myriad of different characters and has taught me that far beyond the shelter of my privileged environment, lie many people who have not had the chance to enjoy life as fortunately as I have. Social work gives me that chance to touch these lives. (LINK TO SOCIAL WORK)

4. Be clear about who you are.

Applying for a scholarship can be a gruelling process. Application essays and interviews will ask you multiple questions about what your motivations are ( why social work?) , what you are interested in, what you are good at, what you can add, and where you want to be. You don’t have to know the answers to all these. But you need to show that you have at least thought about some of these questions.

If you have not, I would deeply recommend Richard Bolles’ What Color Is Your Parachute. This is a book that leads you on 7 separate exercises that help you elucidate more about who you. Try it. It is worth the effort.

5. Be linguistically and grammatically accurate.

Scholarship panels dislike reading grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. This will be the first sign that you might not have spent as much time as you should on an application. There is no second first impression. Your first impression counts. Before you submit that application, take the time to run through the spell check multiple times. To be safe, I would recommend 3 times!

6. Print it and read it out loud to yourself.

It is powerful to read what you have read, out loud to yourself. For one, the spelling and grammar mistakes will jump out at you. It also allows you to see if you are cogent.

Do your arguments flow well?

Do your points make sense?

Recommended by Cal Newport’s book How To Be A Straight-A student, I have found it invaluable in editing better.

I hope that these social work scholarship essay examples help make writing easier. Don’t forget, you are not defined by the outcome of this application. Even if you do not make it, that does not necessarily mean that you should not be a social worker. If you make it, check out my post on interview tips.

Getting a social work scholarship is hard. With the examples above, and the tips for getting a social work scholarship here, I hope you get yours. The world needs more social workers like you.

188 Social Work Essay Topics & Free Examples

🔝 top 10 social work essay topics, 🏆 best social work topic ideas & essay examples, 📚 cultural competence in social work essay topics, 👍 good essay topics on social work, 🪝 catchy social work topics for essay, 📌 simple & easy social work essay titles, 🌟 picking stellar social work topics, 💡 interesting topics to write about social work, ❓ social work essay questions.

Termination as an Important Part of Social Work
Social Work Practice With Groups: Termination in Groups
The Generalist Model in Social Work
Social Work Practice
Antwone Fisher in Social Work Assessment
Ethical Dilemmas in Social Workers’ Practice
The Significance of Evaluation of Social Work
Analysis of The Outsiders From the Perspectives of Social Work Theories and Applications
Social Work: Historical Roots and Future Perspectives
Ethics of Decision-Making in Social Work
Preliminary Session Analysis in Social Work Part of the engagement process, therefore, is to greet the client in a welcoming manner and to introduce the client to the agency’s confidentiality policy by stating that the information shared with the counselor will […]
Self-Reflection in Social Work Therefore, social workers experiencing vicarious trauma and burnout are likely to make invalid assumptions about clients’ behavior because they project their desires and histories to the client. Professionals in the social work provision and students […]
Intervention Challenges in Social Work In order to improve the client’s well-being and therapy outcomes, the social worker should be able to recognize problems negatively impacting the social functioning of their clients and offer appropriate interventions.
Family Social Worker Roles Instead of trying to identify the exact causes of problems, the family social worker may encourage the family to learn the skills that comprise effective communication.
Social Work Effective Communication There is the bottom top that refers to the movement of information from a lower authority to a higher one and the horizontal that refers to the movement of information across the same rank.
The ROPES Social Work Model Report In the context of working with people subject to a state of social isolation, this will mean a complete consideration of all the client’s circumstances.
Personal Social Work Practice Skills and Field Experience To sum up, field education experience helped the social work intern learn essential skills and combine academic knowledge with real-life experience.
Social Work Knowledge and Its Sources Social work as a profession has a place in the society because of the nature of challenges that current societies face.
Social Worker in a Hospital These key vales, ethics and principles include; Understanding the hospital and the health services given by the hospital Planning for release from hospital Support in adjusting to ill health Giving counsel and emotional support Providing […]
Social Work Practice From an Ecological Perspective The social worker implemented the life model approach in four stages: first, in the preparatory stage, the social worker attempted to get to know the client and his environment.
Social Work: Assessment and Measurement Crystal and Anita work with Devonte to get him to talk about his experience and to help him with the guilt that he feels.
Social Work and Homelessness Research Methodology A randomized controlled trial will be conducted to answer the following research question: what is the effectiveness of the Housing First program to street homelessness based on the experiences of both human service professionals and […]
Social Work: Rempel’s Advocacy in Practice The author proposes three courses for the future: the effects of environmental degradation, the advantages and drawbacks of utilizing modern technology, and service users becoming more politicized and knowledgeable.
Ethical Responsibilities in Social Work It leaves a negative mark on the reputation of the company in which the fraud was committed and, in the long term, on the social sphere as a whole.
Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice Garthwait suggests that the cases of resistant and unmotivated clients require effective communication and professional skills, allowing the social worker to understand the causes of clients’ reluctance and select appropriate strategies.
Music Therapy as a Social Work Intervention One of such interventions is music therapy which is aimed at helping people in a sensitive way accurately adjusting the possibilities this therapy may offer to the requirements of a particular client of a group […]
Organisational Analysis With Reference To Social Work The purpose of organizational analysis is to determine the best way to increase the efficiency of an organization. A social worker must determine which of the three models is best applicable to the assigned social […]
Social Worker’s Skills for Indigenous Australians All of the mentioned aspects are associated with the ethical practice, which is intended to bury the tensions that existed between the members of the Indigenous and non-Indigenous population.
Social Worker Treating Borderline Personality Disorder The fact that the patient has personality disorders affect the relationship between the physician and the patient itself and impacts the process of treatment and diagnosis.
The Anti-Oppressive Social Work Practice The presence or absence of privilege colors the nature of the relationship between a social worker and a client. For example, a black client may feel more trusting towards a black social worker, while suspecting […]
Personal Values and Cardinal Values of the Social Work The proponent of this paper will identify the personal values that are congruent and those that are in conflict with social work’s professional values and what can be done to resolve the conflict in order […]
Pinel and Brace as Social Workers and Change Agents The nature of the targeted challenge is what informs an agent of change to come up with the most desirable initiatives.
Core Values of Social Work: Code of Ethics The first value is service, which refers to the importance of empowering people and communities in a time of need. The next value is dignity and worth of the person, which refers to the importance […]
Social Work Career, Professional Behavior and Accountability I have the desire to fight for human rights and social change, and I want to fight for justice in all corners to make society a better place.
Report on Social Worker Interview: Christa Countee The general salary of a social worker is about 71000 annually and with the current recession, she feels that there is likely to be a cut in the allocation for social workers which would definitely […]
Early Childhood Studies: Role of Social Workers Over the course of time, the idea of social work was developing and soon transformed into a necessary help to those members of the human society who were in need due to the new conditions […]
Person-Centered Therapy in Social Work Contributors to this theory considered the client to have a large role in the therapy process, as well as the encouragement of social action and attention on the larger context of the issues that the […]
Social Work as a Profession The danger comes that in case the approach or decisions taken by the volunteers are not the best, then the society is likely to suffer substandard decisions challenging social works ideology When social workers are […]
Social Worker Profession and Conflict Theory I find social work fascinating because it requires me to be stress-tolerant and motivated to help those in need, and my work data is based on reading a journal of articles written by experts in […]
Social Work and Discharge Planning Departments Strategic management in a hospital is an essential factor steering the core efficiency of departmental mergers. The initiative renders critical outlook on the significance of individualism and teamwork.
Gillian Hayes’ Case in the Social Work Field The approach’s fundamental steps are as follows: identifying the problems as viewed by the client, exploring the issue in depth, choosing the condition that is causing the client the most anxiety as the objective for […]
Important Items on NAMI Website for Social Workers Other available and crucial information to social staff includes updates on mental health status and legislation in the nation. In conclusion, social workers need to gain knowledge of the common illnesses related to mental health, […]
A Non-Western Approach to Social Work A solution that may help is scheduling regular Vodou sessions to remind the boy about his mother and how her culture used to help him better.
Area of Interest: Geriatric Social Worker The critical area of knowledge paramount to a person dealing with the elderly population is the aging process, the health issues related to aging, advocacy, and elder abuse.
Managing Ethics Challenges in Social Work Organizations The study’s goal is to evaluate the major issues and difficulties related to ethics in social work settings with a primary emphasis on the dignity and welfare of the individual.
The Social Work Profession in Georgia Its regulation was due to social, cultural, economic, historical, and environmental factors during the 20th century. The licensing of social workers was meant to offset racial and cultural inequalities.
Social Work: Values, Experience, and Educational Goals First of all, I would like to start with the fact that people, as phenomena, have always attracted me, and also aroused a desire to help, if necessary.

The United States has become a home for millions of immigrants coming from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. More often than not, these individuals need support to thrive after moving to a place new and foreign to them. That’s when social workers step onto the stage.

If you decided to write a paper on social work, you might find the ideas below inspiring:

The role of cultural competence in social work. Since service workers assist people from various backgrounds, they are expected to have at least a basic understanding of their clients’ culture. In your essay, discuss how respect and cultural sensitivity can improve social services and help immigrants overcome potential barriers.
Cultural competence vs. cultural humility. While the two practices are closely tied together and may seem similar, they are not the same. This essay can focus on the differences between cultural competence and humility.
The power of language in social work. When working with people from around the world, translation can become a bridge in communication. In your paper, examine the importance of language when it comes to erasing bias and promoting inclusion.
Social work and learning capacity. Your project can analyze why cultural humility and good listening skills make all the difference in a social worker’s competence.
Social Work and the Elderly: Safeguarding Adults Reviews The presence of the elderly is often covert, and they do not know how to express the depth of their distress. The principles and practices of social work provide a potential road map for tackling […]
Social Work Practices in Personal Experience I want to practice as a social worker in a school because of many factors. Other advantages of being a school social worker include possibilities for lifelong learning; as was already mentioned, some school districts […]
Social Work Supervision: Analysis The National Association of Social Workers and the Association of Social Work Boards established a recommendation regarding the customs in community service oversight to assist and improve work monitoring for experts.
Social Work: Discussion and Reflection To be a good social worker, one must ensure that they possess all three since they are the cornerstones of social work.
Social Justice in Social Work Practice The moral approach of social work is fundamentally based on the idea of social justice. Despite the numerous risks associated with advocating for social justice, criticizing injustice is one of the few courageous ways to […]
Resilience and Burnout in Nursing and Social Work The medical community inside is also full of stigmatizing situations, and because of this, nurses and social workers are forced to keep their fears and concerns to themselves.
Social Work and Speech-Language Pathology Firstly, in both cases, professionals in these disciplines often have to work with people from various population groups. Secondly, since both fields work with people who belong to vulnerable population groups, their clients may have […]
The Bible and Social Work Values Creation in the likeness of God has been subject to different interpretations, one of which states that the application of the divine image to all proclaims fundamental human equality.
The National Association of Social Workers’ Goals The program’s main goal is to raise the work standards and rights guarantees for social workers. I found that the program offers protection, support, and assistance to current or retired social workers.
Social Work Practice with the Elderly Social workers can also empower the elderly by bridging the communication gap between older people and the younger generation in the community and institutions.
Race and Ethnicity in Social Work Differences in customs, beliefs, language of communication, and cultural values among the various immigrant races and ethnicities affected how we delivered our social aid. We had to overcome the ethnic and racial barriers that would […]
Rehabilitation of Child Soldiers by Social Workers Reintegration initiatives often aim to return youngsters to a secure environment, foster forgiveness among the child’s families and communities via religious and cultural rites and ceremonies, and support the child’s reconnection with their home.
Social Work During the Great Depression and COVID-19 Pandemic Social workers during the COVID-19 pandemic were faced with a series of novice challenges similar to their counterparts in the Great Depression.
Gender Equality as Target of Social Work As far as health care is concerned, the primary issue of gender inequality addresses the issue of access to the services and the quality of care provided.
Ideological Perspectives in Social Work I would like to follow in the footsteps of creating a better society through social work and state reforms in the field.
Social Worker: The Moral Principles The position of a social worker is associated with many difficulties and places high demands on the skills of these professionals.
Understanding Group Dynamics: Social Work With Groups However, it is possible to say that the group culture is at a decent level because the conflict did not lead to direct offenses, irrespective of Pam’s “Insect,” and the group members did not interrupt […]
National Association of Social Workers The Skills Lab Prep Checklist is significant because it highlights key points that are necessary to prepare for the Skills Lab Intensive.
Implementing Evidence-Based Practice Education in Social Work That is why it is rational to suggest that sufficient data support the effectiveness of this evidence-based program, which advocates for selecting it for the Levy family. It is possible to expect that the proposed […]
Approach to the Client of a Social Worker: Case Study When the situation worsened, the wife decided to go and live with her grandmother, who later passed on when Martin was six years. He even claimed that Martin was not his biological son and wanted […]
Vatsalya Adult Daycare: Evidence-Based Practice of Social Work The category of migrants’ access to social and health services, which are provided in a complex in day care centers, is assessed based on the analysis of several indicators, starting with what happens to a […]
Medical Social Work Scope of Practice: Psychiatry In psychiatric social work, the medical social work practice scope includes the activities identified in National Association for Social Workers standards for social work practice in health care settings with peculiarities limited to the stated […]
Developing and Using Power in Social Work On the one hand, it is a type of person-to-person power, meaning that my communication skills can help me influence others and contribute to advocacy changes.
Social Work & Movements of Refugees and Migrants The profession of social workers acts as an advocate for the human rights of refugees and migrants in education and practice.
12 Tenets for Social Work Practice Therefore, it is argued that without a good education, social workers are unable to be effective leaders of the society, which they should be based on tenets 2,7,10, and 12. Therefore, it can be concluded […]
Pragmatic Approach and Practice Pyramid in Social Work Also, the flexibility of the Practice Pyramid allows students to consider knowledge as something preliminary, which is going to be changed and adapted to certain cases in real practice.
Conflicts in Social Work Depicted in Movies The newly crowned king must reunite the rest of the tribes of Wakanda and use the might of Black Panther to gain victory over his enemies and assure the safety of Wakanda and the whole […]
Engagement in Social Work Field Education Experience The final challenge is to efficiently use empathy, warmth, and genuineness because the social work profession involves the risk of compassion fatigue/burnout, which should be prevented.
Council on Social Work Education The capacity to integrate and implement social work expertise, principles, and skills to action circumstances in a premeditated, deliberate, and competent way to support individual and group well-being is social work.
Social Workers’ Roles: Technology Tools Social workers play the roles of community organizers, educators, and facilitators as they deal with the members of society. As a facilitator, a social worker gathers people together for a common course and ensures that […]
People With Disabilities and Social Work Moreover, there is a tendency towards the rise in the number of such people because of the deterioration of the situation and the growing number of environmental concerns.
Social Work and Welfare Social workers also had to perform the roles of both overseers, checking whether their clients adhere to the rules to receive support, and an assistant, providing help to the clients.
Sexual Abuse in Bachelor of Social Work Students The abstract clearly delineates that the research is on the experience of sexual abuse victimization of the BSW students in their childhood.
The Essence of Profession of Social Work Thus, the development of the profession of a social worker began in the Middle Ages. According to Jones and Lima, in the 16th and 17th centuries helping the poor was the social responsibility of the […]
Social Media and Social Work Practice Confidential information should only be meant for the best interest of the client. Hence, it should remain as a secret between the social worker and patient.
Social Work at Acacia Network: Poverty and Inequality Around the 1980s, the number of older adults was significantly increasing in society; the local government of New York established a home for the aged and was named Acacia Network. The supporting staff may bond […]
Role of Faith in Social Work The first lesson of this book is that social work should be multifaceted to meet the specific needs of people, and it should consider the opportunities that every person has.

Challenges in Contemporary Professional Social Work

With society rapidly transforming, social workers feel the need to adjust to the changes so that they can provide better services. Professionals deal with circumstances and cases that involve inequality, isolation, violence, substance abuse, and many other issues. In order to handle the job, workers have to undergo special training and maintain a positive mindset.

Personal Safety Requirement for Social Workers

Social workers assist their clients during pivotal and critical moments of their lives. Unfortunately, violence towards service workers is not unusual. Even though most clients with whom professionals engage will not turn violent, it’s essential to understand the risks and prepare for unexpected situations.

Personal and Professional Values in Social Work

Social workers usually deal with vulnerable members of society. They help them adjust and gain success in an environment that may be hostile to them. For that reason, service workers’ values often don’t align with those practiced within the mass population.

Vicarious Trauma in Social Workers

Since social workers are exposed to traumatic realities and must develop empathy with their clients, they may experience emotional responses to specific events or vicarious resilience. This indicates professionals who work with children or adults who became victims of violence or circumstances take on some of the physiological consequences of the abuse.

Social Welfare and Social Work

Even though social welfare and social work are connected, they are not the same. While the former works for individuals rather than with them, the latter is meant to assist the clients directly. For that reason, social workers need to have strong communication skills and be culturally aware.

Social Work Leadership: Identifying Core Attributes Social work does not need the hierarchal ruling but management where everybody is free to discuss their thoughts and are inspired to work for the wellness and prosperity of others.
The Social Worker’s Responsibilities: Meeting the Challenges The main goal of the social worker in this interaction is to help people solve their problems and consider all possible and necessary mechanisms of social functioning of the person or social group.
Self-Assessment in Social Work Supervision Furthermore, I will characterize the supervision style I find the most effective and list three questions I would initiate on the job interview to determine the quality of the supervision.
Social Work Related to Alcohol and Substance Abuse The social work of this setting offers services to understand the current point of clients and identify the directions to improve their behaviors.
The Understanding of Aboriginal Culture by Social Workers The readings demonstrate the history of dominance over aboriginals and the role of Anti-Oppressive Practice in achieving equal rights for all.
Social Work Practice Overview Thus, community development is the process of increasing the quality of living of a particular community based on their needs. The historical context of CD and CO influences the direction and goals of social work […]
Reflection on the Job of a School Social Worker Now I clearly understand that providing psychological assistance to children is my role and my vocation. Due to the knowledge gained during the course, I understand that it is essential to recognize inclination to a […]
School of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work With the course completed, I believe that the knowledge I managed to accumulate helped me to develop the basis for my career, which I wish to pursue in my homeland.
Social Work as an Important Element of Society One of the key elements of a social worker is his or her ability to work with families and veterans, regardless of their diverse set of backgrounds.
Hawks’ “Sergeant York” and Military Social Work The goals of York were to complete his military service as a brave and worthy man, who contributed to the protection and safety of the US.
Social Work With Disabled Representatives of LGBT Community Members of the LGBT community with disabilities are one of the most invisible and closed groups, both within the community itself and in society at large.
The Case of Social Work Supervision: A Self-Reflection In this essay, I will analyze my own social worker’s experience of the interaction with the supervisor, where I had to encounter the situation of seemingly wrong assessment of my work.
Social Action as a Method of Social Work Delivering food and personal hygiene products to vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly, was the social action in which I have recently participated. The main issue that the social action pursued was concerned […]
NASW Code of Ethics: Social Workers and Ethical Dilemmas As part of my action, I accessed her files and changed the date that she was to leave the facility by adding a month to it. However, I had acted professionally because it was in […]
Statement of Interest for a Social Work Graduate Program 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.
Social Work Code of Ethics: Disclosing the Client’s Private Information It is noteworthy, however, that the specific details are not disclosed in the process of such actions as it would be a violation of the code of ethics.
American Muslims Challenges: Social Worker’s View Literature reports that apart from the violation of their civil liberties at the legislative level, Muslims in the country experience social discrimination and abuse.
Moral and Ethical Rights of Social Workers Both the JSI and their male workers are guilty of sexually harassing Robinson and other female workers in the company because JSI management not only failed to comply with the presidential order policy on equal […]
A Degree in Social Work: Reasons for Seeking, Career Goals and Aspirations I would like to pursue a degree in social work at this because I am in a position to accommodate the strict nature of the study being fresh from school, young and energetic at the […]
Historical Figure in Social Work: Jane Addams She had a great interest in the poor and this was motivated by her mother’s generosity in Cedarville. However, being a woman, she was not sure of her role in enhancing the same.
Interview on a Social Worker In the pursuit of his career dream as a social worker, he wants to attend a master’s degree at Tulane University with great expectation that the university will provide the best opportunity for him to […]
Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice With Individuals The ultimate of the concept is to show the party that the professional is fully aware of the state they are in a compassionate way.
Lone Parents: Social Work and Exclusion It was easier for these people to legitimize the birth of the child than the single-parents could. There are those who believe that this was intensified by the establishment of policies that made it possible […]
Social Work Improvement in “The Namesake” Film The aim of this report is to understand how social workers can improve the quality of social services for a targeted client by utilizing the framework of human behavior and the social environment.
Social Work and Codes of Ethics According to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers, the principal objective of the social work profession is to augment human well-being and to help meet the primary needs of humans.
Ethical Behavior in Therapists and Social Workers Finally, it could also be argued that Bill’s decision not to tell his wife about his status creates a direct threat to her life and health, and thus the disclosure of this information would help […]
Social Work Methods to Treat the Child Who Is Suffering From Autism This is a clear indicator that alcohol intake by the family is costing the members and it is an issue that needs to be looked into.
Social Work Among the Aged The 20 days exposed the happiness of the aged in the company of us, friends and relatives. The peaceful and contented disposition of the aged is another of their features that has touched me.
Social Work Model: Object Relations and Ego Development The other defined usage of the object relations theory is used in the sense of intrapersonal structures and external relations with others which is a concept of the ego organization.
Theory and Practice Relationship in Social Work The major idea of their theories coincides in the point that the relation between the theoretical and practical parts of the science they deal with, i.e.social work, should allow for people’s use of the findings […]
Homophobia in Social Workers: Gay Affirmative Practice Scale The obvious limitation of the study is the extremely low response rate. The sample size is the key strength of the study.
Personal Negotiating Experience in Social Work During high school, I used to work part-time in a small restaurant at the edge of the city. At the same time, had I been unaware of my employer’s underlying motivations, I would have negotiated […]
Social Work Theory and Practice The general target of helping the boy is to nurture the change in the boy’s life and modify the priorities of his self-development.
Social Work Services in a School Environment The major responsibility of school social workers is to provide good and quality education, counseling and more often, they should discuss on use of available resource to improve the lives of the members of the […]
Professional Knowledge Base for Social Work However, the extent, to which the intellectual abilities and expertise in the theoretical and practical aspects of the profession are important in social work, indicates the necessity to address the core elements of its knowledge […]
Social Worker-Client: Improving the First Contact They must understand and be able to apply professional ethics, theory, and methodology of social work, and the basics of social assistance and welfare. To have a psychological effect on the client, the social worker […]
Issues of the First Interview Between Social Worker and Family One of the common barriers that may arise between a social worker and the family is the unintentional adverse effects of family problems.

Don’t know how to pick a suitable theme for your project? See our helpful tips below:

Consult your professor. Who knows your area of study best if it’s not your supervisor? Plus, they may have some great writing ideas to suggest you.
Make sure the topic suits the requirement. Before starting to work on your paper, always check the guidelines provided by the school. Better be safe than sorry!
Consider the scope of the topic. If the issue you choose to write about is too broad, it might be hard to stay focused. If it’s too narrow, you might struggle to find enough sources.
Conduct primary research. Doing quick research before the actual work will help you ensure that there is enough material to cover the topic.

If you’re not certain where exactly to begin, look into these areas of study to get inspiration:

Social work in criminal justice. This sector is concerned with supporting individuals who went through tough experiences that led them to commit crimes. Workers help them overcome their trauma and transition back into society.
Mental health concerns and social services. This sector collaborates with nurses, counselors, and physicians. It provides therapy for those who deal with mental health problems or substance abuse.
Social work and healthcare. Professionals who work in the sector are equipped to assist patients and their families through acute, chronic, or terminal illnesses.
Military and social aid. Soldiers are at increased risk of physical injuries and mental health problems. Professionals in this area support and provide services to active-duty soldiers, civilians, and veterans
Social Work Theory Critique
Social Work Framework for the Abortion Seeking Experience
Social Work and Human Service-Learning Experience
Journalist Ethics in Social Work
Social Work Ethics in Rehabilitation Services
Social Work Values Development During Internship
Relational Cultural Theory and Social Work
Social Worker’s Personal and Professional Ethics
Social Work Profession-Related Change on the State Level
Kinship Concept for Childhood Social Worker
Meditation in Social Work Treatment
Role of Social Work Supervision
Military Social Work: SA Scott Case
Military Social Worker and Posttraumatic Disorder
Military Social Work Services and Family Support
Ethical Dilemma Involving a Social Worker
Social Work: Human Trafficking and Trauma Theory
Social Work in the Military Rehabilitation
Ethical Standards in Social Work
Counseling and Social Work Challenges
Social Worker Career and Responsibilities
Grants, Contracts and Funding Streams in Social Work
Social Work and Cultural Beliefs: Differences That Matter
Emotional Intelligence in Social Workers
Social Work and Addiction in Family Settings
Georgia Social Work Practice Challenges
Social Work in Health Systems
The Code of Ethics of Social Workers
Wage Ranges for a Healthcare Social Worker
Organizational analysis with reference to Social work
Social Work Practice with Mexican Americans
Bisman’s Social Work Values: The Moral core of Profession
Social Worker Working With Individuals of Minority Status
Social Work, Capacity Building in Human Services
Emergence of Social Work in Britain
Social Work Organizations
British Social Work: Risk Assessment and Management
What Is the Importance of Methods and Tools of Social Work?
When Did Social Work Become a Profession in the UK?
How Does Social Work Affect Our Lives on Both a Macro and Micro Level?
What Are the Components of Social Work Practice?
What Is the Most Important Core Value of Social Work?
How Does Vulnerability Relate to Social Work?
What Is the Importance of Social Action as a Method of Social Work?
Who Is the Author of Social Work Profession?
How Does the Social Work Profession Contribute to Social Change?
What Is the Significance of Social Work in Developing Countries?
Does Social Work Have an Effect on the Society?
What Are the Techniques of Social Action in Social Work?
Is There a Negative Side of Social Work?
What Is the Link Between Social Psychology and Social Work?
What Are the Positive Effects of Social Work in Society?
How Does US Social Work Differ From UK Social Work?
What Is the Significance of Social Work in This Generation?
Why Is It Important to Study Theories in Social Work?
Is There a Difference Between Professional and Voluntary Social Work?
What Is Socio-Economic Development in Social Work?
How Is Social Anthropology Useful in Social Work?
What Is the Role of Social Work in Social Problems?
Is Social Work Really a Low-Paying Field?
Who Has Had the Biggest Impact on Social Work?
What Is the Link Between Social Work and Social Development?
How Did Social Work Change for the Better From the 1960s Till the Present?
Who Is the World’s Youngest Social Worker?
What Is the Relationship Between Social Work and Law?
Does Gender Play a Role in the Social Work Profession?
Why Are Ethics and Values Important in Social Work?
Humanism Research Ideas
Loyalty Essay Ideas
Psychology Questions
Social Problems Essay Ideas
Public Relations Titles
Tolerance Essay Ideas
Adolescence Questions
Abuse Research Topics
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

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Writing social work papers

Social work papers should.

Address all parts of the prompt.
Be concise and clear.
12 pt, Times New Roman font
Double-spaced with 1” margins
No longer required in APA 7, however check for instructor specific instructions.
Page numbering starts on the cover page
Double-spaced
½ ” hanging indent from the margin on all lines after the first in an entry
See “References” page for examples

Dos and Don’ts

Passive: The experiment was conducted by Roberts.
Active: Roberts conducted the experiment.
Know what type of paper you are writing. “I” and “we” are appropriate and necessary for reflective essays but not for research papers. In research papers, use “I” and “we” sparingly or not at all, and only use “I” and “we” when referring to researchers, not when referring to people in general.
Use person-first language. For example, “people with autism” instead of “autistics.”
Remember that “data” are always plural.
Use the word “participants” instead of “subjects.”
Keep your audience in mind.

Don’t

Use direct quotes (they can be used, but should be used sparingly. Paraphrase whenever possible).
Use absolutes such as “completely,” “absolutely,” “always,” etc.
Use immodest expressions such as “prove”. Use words such as “suggest,” “support,” “show,” or “indicate” instead.
Use overly complex sentence structures. The goal is clarity.
Use colloquial or informal writing style, especially slang.
Use contractions.
The male pronoun (he) does not refer to everyone.
Define people by what they aren’t. Rather than saying someone is “non-White,” say they are Latino, for example.
Assume readers will know what you mean. Define all acronyms, jargon, theories and ideas fully.

Know what is expected in common types of writing

Research papers.

Introduction
Literature review (past tense: “Roberts showed” or present perfect tense: “researchers have shown”)
Methods (past tense or future tense in the case of a proposal)
Results (past tense)
Discussion (present tense)
Appendices (if needed)

Reflective papers

Summarize reactions and feelings regarding an experience
Analyze the meaning of the experience
Use “I” statements
Do not require thesis statements
Do have an introduction, body and conclusion

Social policy analysis

Goal is to critically evaluate the effectiveness of a social policy.
The Issue: Clearly define the social problem the policy addresses.
Background: Describe the historical development and original intent of the policy and how it attempts to address the social problem in question.
Analysis: Analyze the social policy, focusing on its strengths and limitations in addressing the problem.
Recommendation: Propose social policy alternatives that might better address the problem.

Professional writing assignments

(University of Montana Writing Center)

Support all opinions with facts.
Are as concise and thorough as possible.
Case Notes— objective descriptions or observations of a situation. They are accurate, clear, and concise. They represent observations, not personal opinions.
Assessments—descriptive compilations of data gathered to present a cohesive view of an individual or family. They describe what a profession thinks professionally, personally, and are descriptive, not diagnostic.
Treatment Plans—outline an intervention that includes specific goals and objectives. Goals are usually broad statements while objectives are measureable actions to be taken.

Personal statements

Answer all questions fully and clearly.
Why social work as a profession
Student experiences (and how they connect to the field of social work)
Work experiences (and how they connect to the field of social work)
Why this school
The six core values of social work (dignity and worth of a person, competence, integrity, service, social justice, and importance of human relationships)

Other useful tips and tricks

Make sure everything is cited, and cited correctly.
Avoid common grammatical errors.
Write the paper over time instead of in one sitting, and edit and proofread over time.
Never be afraid to ask a professor for clarification if something is unclear.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American psychological association. (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.

Angeli, E., Wagner, J., Lawrick, E., Moore, K., Anderson, M., Soderlund, L., & Brizee, A. (2013, March 1). General format. Retrieved from http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01.

Mertens, Maggie. (1999-2003). Tips on writing a reflection paper. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/way_5184362_tips-writing-reflection-paper.html.

Olson, K. & Meyersburg, C.A (2008). A brief guide to writing the psychology paper. Retrieved from http://isites.harvard.edu/fs/docs/icb.topic526630.files/BG%20Psychology.pdf.

Prichard, David C. (1996). Graduate school admissions: Writing an effective personal statement. Retrieved from http://www.socialworker.com/admissio.htm.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work. (n.d.). Writing tips for the MSW program. Retrieved from http://ssw.unc.edu/files/pdf/2013Adv.Standing-WritingandAPAworkshop-revised5-14-13.pdf.

University of Montana Writing Center. (n.d.). Writing in social work. Retrieved from http://www.umt.edu/writingcenter/docs/resourcesforwriters/writinginsocialwork.doc.

University of Washington. (2010). Style points for scientific writing. Retrieved from http://www.psych.uw.edu/writingcenter/writingguides/pdf/style.pdf.

Wolfe, Conie. (n.d.) General tips for writing a paper for psychology. Retrieved from http://www.muhlenberg.edu/depts/psychology/writingtips.htm

College of Arts & Sciences
University Writing Center
Writing in Social Work

Social workers provide assistance to populations in need, linking them to key resources and ensuring that they receive the help they need. As social workers, writing is one of our most powerful advocacy tools available and is vital to solving the demanding social problems we are currently facing. Success in writing can be key to gaining your clients the help and resources they need—writing in Social Work has real-world consequences!

Writing in Social Work is, for the most part, good writing in most contexts. Social Work writing needs to be clear, organized, targeted to a specific audience, on point, and use sources wisely. Research needs to be credible and drawn from credible Social Work journals in the United States.

There are two types of writing in social work: practitioner-based writing and scholarly writing. The practitioner is experienced-based and may conduct interviews with clients for writing reports; generally, this form of writing is more technical and precise. The scholar uses research and relies on sources and formal organization to compose texts and make original contributions to the body of knowledge within the field.

CLEAR —Use direct language

For example, “This person is at risk.” This is JARGON. It is not clear what the person is at risk for. The statement is too general.
Instead, describe the condition. “This person likely to relapse in their drug use” provides more description about the precise problem. Be specific.
Use appropriate terminology. Make sure that your intended audience will know what the specific words mean. If you are unsure, always opt for simpler language.
Employ a simple sentence structure. Avoid using multiple clauses within a sentence as this can inhibit comprehension.

ORGANIZED —Have a clear beginning, middle, and end along with a logical progression of ideas.

Your introduction should answer the following questions: What is the reader looking at?; Why is it important?; What is the purpose?
The body of your text should develop your points fully. Each paragraph should have a main idea and that main idea should be fully developed.
Consider following the Assertion-Support Analysis (ASA) model when constructing your body paragraphs. Begin with an assertion that makes an arguable claim. Then provide support via observational or scholarly evidence. Most importantly, remember to provide analysis that explains why the evidence supports your assertion—readers will not always make the same connections as you!
The conclusion should pull your ideas together, restate what you have addressed, and provide any relevant implications from your work.

TARGETED TO AN AUDIENCE —Know who you are writing to and the most effective methods for conveying information to them.

Go beyond your instructor as audience to reach a general social work audience. Do not assume any specific knowledge unless your instructor has indicated you are dealing with a specialized audience.
Be aware of genre. The assignment will determine whether you will be writing as a practitioner or as a scholar.
Practitioners do not rely on APA style rigidly.
Practitioners are experience-based. They are reporting on interviews and observations in order to write summaries and analyses.
Practitioners write in a technical fashion. Clarity of communication is critical and short, succinct sections are the most impactful. Be brief but specific.
The art of writing as a practitioner is in pulling out the relevant material for a reader so that they can make informed decisions.
Scholars rely on APA style and adhere precisely to its standards.
A more formal organizational structure is used for scholarly writing, usually including an introduction, literature review, methods (potentially), and conclusion.
Writing for a scholarly audience relies on placing credible sources in conversation with one another to advance knowledge.

STAY ON POINT ——Avoid unnecessary detail.

Move beyond the descriptive to the most pertinent, relevant facts.
Avoid information that has nothing to do with your text.
Support your observations and opinions with evidence and details. (e.g. “The house is dirty” is not supported by evidence.) Be specific with what you observe and find. (e.g. “There were dishes stacked three feet high in the sink, and all of the furniture had a 1-inch layer of dust on it” provides evidentiary support for your observations and opinions.)

USE SOURCES WISELY ——Conduct proper research and present your findings professionally.

Consult a librarian—they are more than willing to help.
Employ databases and be specific with your search terms in order to ensure specific results.
Use credible journals and books from the United States. If you are unsure if a journal or book is credible, look for Social Work in its title.
For online and other print sources, aim for information and materials which come from reputable professional organizations, non-profits, or government sources. Avoid sites by organizations that do not have standing in the Social Work community as well as personal sites.
The more often a source is cited, the more likely it is credible.
When you find a strong source, look up the sources from its reference page. You do not have to reinvent the wheel!
Draw from sources that have been published in the last 10 years unless you have good reason to use older sources.
Paraphrase whenever possible. Avoid direct quotations unless absolutely necessary. (Unless the specific words gain you something a paraphrase cannot, opt to paraphrase.)

Helpful Resources

The UWC’s APA Jumpstart APA PowerPoint Purdue OWL APA Purdue OWL Professional, Technical Writing

Need help with an assignment? Click here to make an appointment with a tutor

The Lookout
Military History Symposium
Writing in Liberal Studies
Writing in the Social Sciences

Campus closed June 19:

In recognition of Emancipation Day , the A&M-Central Texas campus will be closed and no classes will take place on June 19. Normal business hours and schedules resume Thursday, June 20.

Updated: 7:29 am June 18

Office Closure:

The College of Business Administration academic advisors will be out of the office Friday, June 21. The advisors will return during normal business hours Monday, June 24.

Updated: 7:00 a.m. June 20

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Social Work — Bringing the Meaning in Life: Why I Want to be a Social Worker

Bringing The Meaning in Life: Why I Want to Be a Social Worker

Categories: Career Goals Social Work

About this sample

Words: 964 |

Published: Apr 15, 2020

Words: 964 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Personal experience as a driving force, embracing flexibility as an asset, the perfectionist's dilemma, works cited.

Humphrey, C. (2011). Social work, social justice and human rights: A structural approach to practice. Policy Press.
Mathiasen, H., & Larsen, L. B. (2016). Core social work values and ethics: A critical review of the literature. Social Work Education, 35(1), 11-25.
National Association of Social Workers. (2017). Code of ethics. NASW Press.
Payne, M. (2014). Modern social work theory. Oxford University Press.
Reamer, F. G. (2013). Social work in a digital age: Ethical and risk management challenges. Social Work, 58(2), 163-172.
Ruch, G. (2010). Relationship‐based social work: Getting to the heart of practice. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Saleebey, D. (Ed.). (2013). The strengths perspective in social work practice. Pearson.
Schiele, J. H. (2014). Social workers' attitudes toward self-disclosure in the therapeutic relationship. Social Work, 59(2), 145-153.
Todd, S., & Bohan, J. S. (2013). Online social work: Is it for everyone?. Journal of Social Work Education, 49(2), 212-226.
Vourlekis, B. S., & Greenfield, E. A. (2015). Ethical considerations in geriatric social work. In Handbook of geriatric social work (pp. 325-341). Wiley.

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A Writing Guide for Social Work
This guide assumes that a high-quality product—an essay, a report, a research paper—results from a streamlined, efficient, rigorous process. This guide can usher you through the complete ... Social Work Writing Beyond College In studying for a BSW, an MSSW, or a PhD in Social Work, we will have to write a variety of
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The realm of social work is a dynamic and impactful field that demands a blend of empathy, resilience, and practical skills. Undertaking a social work internship provided me with an immersive opportunity to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world practice. This essay offers a reflection on...
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3. Treat your personal statement like an essay. The personal statement is just as much about what you say and also how you say it. The personal statement serves as a writing sample and you should follow all of the same mechanics you would when writing an essay for school. This includes: An introduction and conclusion.
10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)
Commentary: Clarity of Motivation: The essay effectively communicates the candidate's personal experiences and observations of disparities in their community as key motivators for pursuing social work.; Goal-Oriented: Clearly outlines immediate and long-term goals, demonstrating a focused vision for a career in social work.; Understanding of a Social Issue: The candidate's insight into the ...
A Writing Guide for Social Work
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Writing Guide
Professional social workers create a variety of documents, including proposals, case reports, and treatment itineraries. Social work programs prepare students for these tasks through writing assignments such as research papers and essays. To prepare for these writing assignments, students should have a basic understanding of grammar, punctuation, citation styles, and essay formats before ...
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Research Papers. Of all social work writing, the research paper ranks among the most common. You'll likely complete several extensive research papers throughout the course of your studies, requiring you to examine and synthesize many information sources on a specific topic. While a research paper is similar to an essay, several key factors ...
Essays
Essays. Application Requirement: The Garland School of Social Work application includes four short-answer essay prompts. The four essays focus on the following topics: Application Advice: Essays are a significant piece of the application to the MSW program at Baylor. This is how we get to know you as a future student and social work professional.
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Critical Reflective Writing. by Linda Macdonald and Robin Greene. In the field of Social Work, you may be asked to write in a variety of forms-- research proposals and reports, academic essays, case studies, and reflective writings, for example-- and for a variety of audiences-- for example, your professors, your colleagues, or public agencies.
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Social work is a challenging profession that also helps one make a difference in the lives of others (CUW 2011). It aims at improving the overall functioning and well-being of people served. A social worker must have a genuine and special concern for the poor, marginalized, and the vulnerable.
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Key themes: UK social worker, passing university assignments, social work students, social work degree and masters in social work.Greetings, everyone! Today,...
Bringing The Meaning in Life: Why I Want to Be a Social Worker
Social work stands as a vocation that garners significant interest among students, primarily because it offers the promise of job satisfaction and the... read full [Essay Sample] for free ... Let us write you an essay from scratch. 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help; Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours; Write my essay. Get high ...
Why I Want to Be a Social Worker Essay Tips
A student contacted me recently wanting tips on how to write on the topic; 'why I want to be a social worker'. I explained the great benefits of being a social worker.I also embedded myself in this task and wrote with my own experiences and views on why I became a social worker in an essay format.. Picture a world where compassion and empathy are the guiding forces, where individuals ...
The Social Work Theory Social Work Essay
Social workers deal with a variety of clients from different ethnicity, age, gender, disability and social inequalities. Use of theories in social work practice gives it a strong knowledge base. They provide a way of thinking and knowing. In this essay I will discuss the inter-relationship between theory and social work practice and theoretical ...
Social Worker UK: Writing Social Work Essays.
Writing Social Work Essays Social Worker UK: How to pass essays or exams in social work uk and have a social work career. How to write and pass your Social W...
Essay Writing: How to Write an Outstanding Essay
How to write an essay. Your essay needs a thesis statement. The essay-writing process. Essay structure. Know your essay's audience. 6 types of essays. Essay writing tips. How to write an essay. The basic steps for how to write an essay are: Generate ideas and pick a type of essay to write. Outline your essay paragraph by paragraph.

10 MSW Personal Statement Examples (with Commentary)

Example 1: NYU MSW Personal Statement Sample

Commentary:

Example 2: Columbia MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 3: UC Berkeley MSW Statement of Purpose Sample

Example 4: Cal State Fullerton MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 5: Cal State Long Beach MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 6: San Jose State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 7: Wayne State University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 8: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 9: Case Western Reserve University MSW Personal Statement Sample

Example 10: University of Pittsburg MSW Personal Statement Sample

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Writing Guide

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Modern Language Association (MLA) Format

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The Best Writing Style for Social Work Majors

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

Punctuation

Writing Resources for Social Work Students

Writing Guide for Social Workers

Types of Writing Social Workers Will Do in School

Research Papers

How Do You Write an Essay?

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American Psychological Association Style

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Modern Language Association Format

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The Best Writing Style for Social Work Majors

Common Writing Mistakes Students Make

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Writing Resources for Social Work Students

Social work student essay guide

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Social work scholarship essay examples

1. Include stories

2. Ask someone else to read through your essay.

2. Use every experience you have had.

Example 2: Current work experience

4. Be clear about who you are.

5. Be linguistically and grammatically accurate.

6. Print it and read it out loud to yourself.

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188 Social Work Essay Topics & Free Examples

Challenges in Contemporary Professional Social Work

Personal Safety Requirement for Social Workers

Personal and Professional Values in Social Work

Vicarious Trauma in Social Workers

Social Welfare and Social Work

Writing social work papers

Dos and Don’ts

Don’t

Know what is expected in common types of writing

Reflective papers

Social policy analysis

Professional writing assignments

Personal statements

Other useful tips and tricks

CLEAR —Use direct language

ORGANIZED —Have a clear beginning, middle, and end along with a logical progression of ideas.

TARGETED TO AN AUDIENCE —Know who you are writing to and the most effective methods for conveying information to them.

STAY ON POINT ——Avoid unnecessary detail.

USE SOURCES WISELY ——Conduct proper research and present your findings professionally.

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