Maggie
If one is considering Social Work as a career path, how different is the administrative/managerial paths than the fieldwork/caseworker paths?
Considering my major in Social Work and the specialization I would like. #human-resources #social-work #social-services
2 answers
Domenick "DJ" Franchini
Domenick "DJ"’s Answer
Having grown up as a part of a system where Social Work was a large part of my life, the advice I would offer would be to think about what is motivating you to go towards Social Work. If it is to help the 'human condition' then I would offer that you truly consider what the impact would be for you in the hardest of times. Those things could include worse case having to deal with removing family members from a bad situation, best case assisting families that need the extra touch and being a person to help with the best interest of the family/children is where the most rewarding benefits can be for the field work. In my opinion, a desk job or administrative job is needed to help the system run effectively, so I am not indicating that they are not needed. Rather stating that the field work could potentially offer you the most challenges and rewards depending on what you put into it. Hope this helps.
Sometimes it is hard to put into perspective WHAT motivates you to pursue a career path when you have to worry about studies/program time, potential monetary gain, your academic/skill weakness, etcetera, ecetera. . . Thank you for answering my question, sir. Your advice will be pondered upon.
Maggie
Amy C.
Amy ’s Answer
The administrative/managerial field requires business and clerical skills. For example, as an Administrative Assistant, you may deal directly with visitors and upper-management, as well as handle paperwork (i.e filing, faxes, data entry, record management). Many hours may be spent sitting behind a desk working with computers more than direct contact with people. Same goes for Managers; they handle more of the business and financial needs for a company. The field of Social work deals more with direct contact with individuals and families in need of some type of assistance, (i.e. financial, counseling, shelter, etc.). Many of their cases deal with the well-being of others. So as a Caseworker, you may deal with abuse, neglect, rape and/or suicide survivors, etc. Social workers work in the field, some work in-office. Caseworkers usually handle many caseloads at once.