My Intrinsic Motivation - That's Why I Want to Be a Social Worker

Why I Want to Be a Social Worker

This essay is all about why I want to be a social worker. I'm sharing my thoughts on this career path and what drives me towards it. I'll talk about my motivation, the personal traits and experiences that make me think I'll be effective, and how ready I am to take on the responsibilities of this profession.

My Intrinsic Motivation - That's Why I Want to Be a Social Worker

I'm in my second year of college, and it's been quite a ride, honestly. As a first-generation student, picking a major was confusing at first. But one thing I knew for sure? I wanted to change the world. Initially, I thought Political Science was the way to do it since solving social problems seemed like a good start. But as I sat in those classes, something felt off. It was like trying on shoes that just don't fit right. Then it hit me—changing the world starts with helping people directly: kids, adults, elders, especially those who are vulnerable. Political Science does help change things too, but not in the way I felt connected to.

The idea of becoming a social worker really appealed to me because I rarely saw bilingual people or people of color like myself making an impact in my community. It's important for me to become the person I've always wanted to see around me growing up. I believe everyone matters, no matter what circumstances they find themselves in. Being a social worker will give me the chance to help those who really need it.

Attributes and Experiences That Shape Me

I think I've got what it takes to be a great social worker because of some personal traits and past experiences. Back when I still thought I'd stick with Political Science, I tried helping out by supporting sanctuary cities and standing up for causes that would benefit my community. Even as a kid, I'd go out of my way to help my parents or neighbors by translating from English to Spanish whenever they needed it.

I remember this one time vividly—seeing fear in my mom's eyes when she couldn't understand what a visiting social worker was saying after my little brother fell and hurt himself. It broke my heart then, and even now thinking back on it makes me more determined to break down barriers caused by language differences.

The Kind of Social Worker I Want to Be

The social worker I want to become is someone who genuinely connects with others and sees them for who they truly are beyond their current situation. I'm ready to stand up for those who can't fight alone because sometimes there aren't enough people willing to put others before themselves.

I believe that changing the world begins with helping one person at a time and really empathizing with them. Having experienced struggles firsthand allows me to be the voice for those who can't speak up for themselves—and dedicate my career toward assisting folks facing challenges they can't tackle on their own.

Commitment to Social Work's Mission

As someone pursuing social work studies now more seriously than ever before—I've made peace within myself knowing how committed I am already towards practicing its mission effectively while complying ethically academically (and otherwise). Promoting social justice remains crucial alongside advancing human well-being across various societal contexts too.

In conclusion... can we actually change our surroundings entirely overnight? Probably not—but small steps still matter! Ultimately though—it’s gonna take all our combined efforts fighting together if we're serious 'bout seeing real tangible changes unfold someday soon-ish at least anyhow! 🙂

• Cournoyer, B.R., & Klein, W.C. (2014). The Social Work Skills Workbook (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.
• Miley, K.K., O'Melia M., & DuBois B.L.. (2013). Generalist Social Work Practice: An Empowering Approach (7th ed.). Pearson.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW). (2021). Code of Ethics Guide.
• Segal E.A., Gerdes K.E., & Steiner S..(2016). An Introduction To The Profession Of Social Work: Becoming A Change Agent (5th Edition) Cengage Learning
• Zastrow C.H., & Kirst-Ashman K.K.(2019) Understanding Human Behavior And The Social Environment Brooks Cole/Thomson Learning