Alysia Porter '10, Hope Ministries

There are many reasons that I would like to be a social worker, but the main reason is because I feel that this career suits me best. I feel that I have been through a lot in my life, and that I could help people cope with things that I have been through, or seen. I am a very understanding person; I do not bring in my own beliefs when people are telling me about the situation that they are in. I have always been the go-to person with my friends when things aren’t going so well, and I enjoy listening and trying to help people. If I do not know answers or how to particularly deal with a situation, I am very willing to research and find an answer. I am also very comfortable with silence. I understand that sometimes the best thing for someone is just to have someone there, holding their hand.

I, like almost every person I know who is pursuing a degree in Social Work, want to help people. I feel that there are many ways to help people in the field of social work, so I do not feel I will ever be bored. I enjoy working with people, and not doing the same thing every day, which a job as a Social Worker would offer me. Not enough people care about those who are down and out, those who have committed crimes, those who have mental health issues...some people are afraid to help them because they don't understand these groups of people, or feel that they do not need help. I want to change that idea and help people realize that we are all human beings; we all need help at times. I want to help the people who don't think they need help, to let them know that it is okay to accept help and that everyone needs support. Once people become aware and more knowledgeable about at-risk populations, policy changes can take effect through the help of other social workers so that we can strive towards a world of equality. I don't think world peace is possible now, or real equality is going to happen anytime soon, but one can hope. Social workers can be that hope for people, taking the risks and giving their all to work towards a dream that we all have.