My first internship was at the NCADD (National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependency). I learned a lot at this agency and I will be the first to admit that it was not very easy! I was a substance abuse counselor there and also assisted in helping run the outpatient groups. Many of the clients that came to the agency were mandated to attend counseling so I also was responsible to reporting to probation officers and case workers about the clients' progress. This population was very challenging to work with but I also enjoyed my time helping them and met some wonderful people who I will always remember.
My internship currently is at the HIV/AIDS clinic that is a partnership of Wayne State's Medical School and the Detroit Medical Center. This internship experience is very different from my last one! I do not interact with patients on a therapeutic basis as much but I am learning more about patient advocacy and case management. I still have very much to learn but I do work with a great team who are dedicated to helping out people who are infected and affected by HIV.
Why I chose social work
I have always liked to connect with other people but I know that it was important to find who I am as well. People suggested along the way that I try social work but it was not until my current job that I found out what possibilities a social worker can have After obtaining my undergraduate degree and working for few years, I have discovered that this line of work is what I have always wanted to do. I like to help people and also want to understand people. Social work is a varied field that will allow me to help people in different ways and make a difference however small. Telling people that I am social worker does conjure up certain stereotypes in people's minds that I myself had. I more than happy to clear those up!