Foster Care Coordinator Discusses Diverse Field Of Social Work In Baltimore
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 12 percent from 2012 to 2022. Demand for clinical and counseling psychologists will increase as people continue to turn to psychologists to help solve or manage their problems." The BLS statistics for social workers states, "Employment of social workers is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022."
Kerri Socha, Children's Services Placement Coordinator at Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, holds bachelor's and master's degrees in social work, and is a licensed graduate social worker. Socha offers some insight into how to utilize a degree in social sciences to excel in the field.
How does your education relate to your current role?
"I am the coordinator for 11 Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Foster Care programs across the country. I work with foster care program directors to coordinate new client placements, offer training to caseworkers, consult on complex case matters, consult on capacity development, conduct research on a national level and much more. Education gave me knowledge about foster care as well as program management and research, all of which I use on a daily basis."
How has your education helped further your career?
"My education introduced me to social work, and the vast array of careers within the discipline. It taught me to think critically, gave me a core of clinical skills and internship opportunities. I was taught specifics to succeed in the field. Having a strong foundation made me confident when I entered my first job after graduation. Confidence was the single most important thing that has made me succeed to this day."
What advice can you offer others going into psychology or social sciences?
"I would advise students to get involved, and soak up as much knowledge as possible. The social sciences are a diverse field, and you should use every opportunity to influence which career you choose. Think about what you want to do now, and where you may want to be in the future so that you can get the education to best prepare yourself."
Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
