Student Spotlight: Alexia Bellini, MSW Program, FYT Specialization, Class of 2023
Field Placement: Little Flower Children and Family Services
What has surprised you about your field experience?
Something that has surprised me within my field experience is the great amount of support that social workers need! We are constantly supporting the needs of others and advocating for our clients, but I have learned very quickly that self care is essential in this field. I was also surprised about how many questions I have asked over the course of my placement. Once you are actually in the thick of your placement, you will be asking questions constantly and that is a huge part of the learning process! Ask questions as much as possible!!
-What advice do you have for those just starting out in field? A piece of advice I would give to those who are starting out in field is to ensure you communicate and establish a schedule each week with your supervisor. My supervisor and I constantly communicate and I feel that this is essential in getting the most out of your placement. I highly recommend speaking with your field advisor with any concerns as well, as they are extremely knowledgeable in any issues you may be facing! I said to my supervisor from the beginning of my field placement “As much experience and responsibility as you are willing to give me, I will take!” Taking on more responsibility is extremely important in ensuring that you soak up as much knowledge from your placement as possible. Keeping an open mind is also key! As social workers, we come into contact with so many different people with different needs and views. We always need to keep this in mind and support our clients regardless of their views. Networking and showing your face in all departments is also important, make yourself known!
-What stands out for you as the greatest learning experience so far?
My greatest learning experience so far has been visiting therapeutic foster homes independently. In the beginning of my placement, the idea of entering a foster home alone was very intimidating. The way that I became comfortable with this experience was shadowing my supervisor and other staff members during these home visits as much as possible. I am now visiting foster homes independently and utilizing the skills I have learned from my supervisor on these visits! This learning experience is something I will keep with me forever and is a huge resume builder in the field I would like to enter!
