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About Me
About Me
My name is Jhaniya. I am a Sophomore majoring in social work. I am passionate about positively impacting people's lives. Being that person anyone can rely on, whether personally or academically, I am always there to help. I am very optimistic, as I can find the positives in any situation, rather than letting a negative experience with a social worker deter me from the field entirely, it made me want to become one.
My internship experience has confirmed my career planning journey, as I still want to do social work, but it has also helped me gain more knowledge about the career. For example, having to review virtual sessions with clients and therapists has helped me understand the structure of how a session could go. Even though the information for social work sessions is different, it is helpful to have a general idea of what to do. Throughout my internship, I focused on strengthening transferable skills that I can use in social work, like communication and leadership, by communicating effectively with my team and leading my own projects. Using my self-knowledge and preferences to make a career-related decision, I feel a bit more confident now. During my internship, I have grown to understand the type of work I enjoy and the specific work “style” I find most comfortable, and this insight is important because I can use it to search for social work fields that fit that style.
"During my internship, I have grown to understand the type of work I enjoy and the specific work style I find most comfortable."
After reviewing my goals from my LHSI application, I have made a lot of progress. One of my goals was to strengthen skills like communication and leadership, and through having to communicate my work progress, ask questions, and lead projects of my own, I have been able to reach this goal. I now feel like I can better use these skills in my career as a social worker compared to where I was before my internship. Another goal I had was networking, which is something I have always struggled with, as it is hard for me to communicate and connect with others. Through my internship, I had to talk with my supervisor and co-workers, which became easier over time as I started to feel more comfortable, and I was able to make sincere, genuine connections with them.
"I started to feel more comfortable, and I was able to make sincere, genuine connections with them. "
During the rest of my time at IU Indianapolis, I want to find volunteer opportunities that align with social work, like working at shelters or community centers, something that allows me to directly impact the lives of others. I also want to find another internship related to social work. This internship does not have to be for a long time, but just something that helps me better understand social work overall and helps me build a network of connections.
"I want to find volunteer opportunities that align with social work, like working at shelters or community centers, something that allows me to directly impact the lives of others."
A negative childhood experience with a social worker inspired me to create change within the system. I have pursued this goal through SPAN in high school, college coursework, and the Honors College. SPAN allowed me to take psychology and English courses, strengthening my understanding of human development and communication, both essential for social work. In college, courses like Diversity in a Pluralistic Society and Intro to Social Work deepened my understanding of marginalized communities and the profession’s impact.
These experiences have clarified my career path, reinforcing my goal of earning a master’s degree and licensure. Through the Honors College, I have refined my research and communication skills, ensuring I am well-prepared to advocate for and support individuals in need.
Reflection
My experiences and education have shaped my passion for social work, reinforcing my commitment to advocacy and social change. Through coursework, research, and the Honors College, I am developing the skills needed to make a meaningful impact and support individuals and communities in need.
This is a reflection of my identity as an honors student, professional, and person.
"With these experiences and opportunities at IUI, I am confident that I am gaining the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work."
Engaged Learning & Leadership Goals
Civic Engagement
Civic Engagement
Participating in civic engagement will allow me to contribute to my community while developing values that align with my goal of becoming a social worker. By stepping into new experiences and challenges, I will strengthen my ability to connect with others and foster positive change.
Community Engagement Internships
Bonner Leader Scholars
Alternative Break Trip Leaders and Co-Coordinators
Jobs/internships
Jobs/internships
Gaining hands-on experience through jobs and internships will help me refine my career goals and understand what type of social work best aligns with my passions. These opportunities will also enhance my problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills, preparing me for success in both academics and my future profession.
Life Health Science Internship
Peer Mentor
Lily Co-op program
Research Assistant
Office Assistant
Student Orgs
Student Orgs
Joining student organizations will help me build connections with peers, develop leadership skills, and expand my knowledge in social work and related fields. Through collaboration and engagement, I will strengthen my communication skills and create opportunities for professional growth.
DEAP
Art Education Association At IU Indianapolis
Black Student Union
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