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Giving back to society is a goal most people have, but very few achieve. Most people never get past making ends meet, never getting a chance to play a part in something bigger. Hence, there have traditionally been very few people who have sought a career in social work. Entering a career is one thing; actively thinking about an education and planning to enter the market is entirely different.
However, times are changing, and more people are opening up to the idea of a career in social service. Not only is this a breakthrough for society, but as a people, this Is a significant step in the right direction. This article discusses some of the benefits of a career in social work and why more people should consider it a viable option.
As far as monetary compensation is concerned, you may not earn an awesome salary, but it’s certainly better than it once was. With that said, here are four benefits of a career in social work.
1. Easy education options if you want to work on the side
If you are moving into social work, you will need a degree in the related field. A Master in Social Work (MSW) goes a long way when working in social work and can open several career options for you. However, managing classes and a full-time job (that too a very demanding one) can be a tough juggle. Hence the reason why an MSW online might be a more viable option.
There are a handful of degree options that you can take online; a social work degree is one of them. Therefore, we suggest you jump at the opportunity as quickly as possible so you can get it over and done with and continue your career.
Competition in the job market is more fierce than its ever been. The faster you earn your graduate degree, the more likely you will grow in your career and achieve greater things. Having an extra feather in your hat can change the dynamic of your career.
2. Great career prospects
As we mentioned earlier, the demand for social workers is growing every year. After you attain your master’s, chances are you will have a few jobs lined up. If you don’t, don’t worry; you will likely find something soon.
The demand for social workers is increasing across the globe. People have an increased focus on social services and vulnerable populations, and there is increased importance on ensuring we protect vulnerable groups. You can find career prospects globally by getting a specialization and working with specific populations. Doing so can help you gain internationally relevant skills and can help you seek jobs anywhere in the world.
Other than the chance to see more of the world, exposure to foreign markets is a great learning source for everyone. Understanding new cultures and learning more about people can change your thinking!
3. You can help change society as we know it
There is no denying that in underdeveloped communities within the US, a few changes can be made. However, those rarely come to light because there is very little research done in the area. As a social worker, you stand to gather data on the ground, educate the communities and relay the information back to the local government or organization that you are working with.
Social work and public development campaigns run parallel to each other. Therefore, if you truly care about bringing change to less fortunate neighborhoods, this is probably the career route you want to take.
Although it can be challenging at times, in the end, you will have played a role in reshaping the lives of hundreds of people. This alone can make working as a social worker incredibly rewarding.
Social workers often forego high-paying jobs and choose a life of service instead. It truly is a noble field that is only now becoming a viable career option.Click To Tweet4. It gives you a new perspective
One of the major benefits of pursuing a career in social service is that it grounds you as a person. Dealing with real-world mental health illnesses, poverty and sickness can change how you perceive society. You will come face to face with some problematic themes in your career; however, you will also learn that tackling even the toughest problems is possible when you have the right resources.
Reading about societal dysfunction in books or watching the news has a sense of detachment from the idea. However, when you actively engage with people from run-down communities with little to no education, rampant crime issues, and health issues, you realize how big of a problem you are dealing with.
It gives a greater sense of appreciation for the lives that we live. Hence, social workers often forego high-paying jobs and choose a life of service instead. It truly is a noble field that is only now becoming a viable career option.
Conclusion
There we have some of the common yet noteworthy benefits of a career in social work. There is no running from the fact that this will be one of the toughest decisions you have ever made (if you haven’t made it. However, if you have come this far, there is probably something more significant at play than simply looking for a job. If you truly aim to make a difference, this is the direction.
Accessible and unbiased, Careers in Mental Health introduces upper-level high school students and beginning undergraduates to the different aspects of various mental health professions.
