March is Social Work Awareness Month, so we would like to highlight our social work intern, Autumn Dupree as she tells us what is it like to be a social work student.

1. Why do you want to become a social worker?

There are many reasons why I want to become a social worker. I have always wanted to make a positive impact on others’ lives. I went on a mission trip to Atlanta where I saw how many individuals were homeless. Ever since that experience I have wanted to be a Social Worker and help those who do not have the means or the resources.

2. What is the best/most rewarding part of your job as a Social Worker?

The best part of being a Social Worker is when you when you positively impact someone’s life even if in a very small manner. I have had many rewarding moments and the ones that impact the most are when they thank you for helping them and feel as if you changed their life. Many people just need someone to talk to. Clients can come in upset and leave in a better mood just because someone listened to their struggles. If I can take their burden away for a few minutes, that makes it worth it.

3. What has it been like using your Social Work skills at RIFA?

It has been really rewarding to use the skills I had learned in school and put that into the practice in the real world. I have been able to interview and ask questions in a way that is relaxed while still gaining the information needed. I have been able to observe various behaviors and patterns that I learned about in school to help clients at RIFA.

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