Welcome to The New Social Worker's Blog

The New Social Worker is the quarterly magazine for social work students and recent graduates, focusing on social work careers for those new to the profession. This blog is a companion to the free online magazine at http://www.socialworker.com.

Monday, April 5, 2010

The Big Overwhelm


MAYBE IF I POST, IT WON'T FEEL SO BIG.

So here it is--32 days from graduation (May 8), 20 days left of the semester (April 24), and three weekends of classes to attend. I have three papers, a journal assignment and a final exam to complete and then I will be finished. In addition to that, I will complete several modules for the child welfare agency that I am currently interning with, and will be employed by(!) on May 17. On the very top of all of this (right beside the cherry), I want to study for the Master's Exam.

{insert silent scream here}

I am writing this post for two reasons: 1.) to release tension, and 2.) to help another student who might be out there feeling overwhelmed, too.

These are the days we will probably not remember in the days, months, and years to come. Like my Dad used to say about stuff that was troubling me when I was just a child: "You'll forget all about this by the time you get married." Back then it was a skinned knee or a lost toy; today it's a Master's degree. Go figure!

A quote from a meditation book I keep close at hand states:

On accepting your path through life:

Your way is decided
There is nothing you will not be told,
if you acknowledge this.

So be it.

~Ms. T. J.

2 comments:

  1. I am in the same situation you are! I am 4 weeks from graduating with my MSW and I have been hired at my internship for a director position. On top of fighting senoritis and trying to stay focused and complete the last bunch of papers due I have already started working at my internship. So reading what your blog strikes a cord within me too because I feel the exact same way! I am just taking it one day at a time and doing the best I can. I am working hard on believing in the external locus of control! I have also decided to take a break before I truly dive into my new position and go to Costa Rica to just "be". But I just wanted to write and tell you that you arent the only one. Reading your blog has helped me deal with stress/anxiety and all of the other emotions that come with grad school because I have been with you every step of the way! So keep writing and we will make it! Almost done!

    ReplyDelete
  2. <span>Wow AK-SW! Congratulations to you--and thank you for reading my blog, and telling me! Sometimes I feel as if I am writing in a bound journal that no one sees.  You remind me that it's worthwhile! 
     
    A Director! Wow. The power of the MSW! I am very happy for you. Costa Rica! I want to do the very same thing--get away.  I have always wanted to go to Costa Rica. 
     
    Thanks again and please stay in touch! 
     
    ~Ms. T. J.</span>

    ReplyDelete