Hiya,

I am a finished first year student, dreading the 2nd academic year and what it holds. Are there any other student SW's out there who like me have completed their first year and are also wondering whether they will survive the 2nd year. I'd also love to hear from any students who have completed their 2nd year and can perhaps let us know what to expect.

Jenny, Are you working on your BSW or MSW?

Jenny,

I assume you're talking MSW (if not, then my response won't make much sense!). In my MSW program, I found the 2nd year to be way better than the first. The pros about being a 2nd year student were:

* the benefit of selecting you second year placement instead of having it selected for you

* feeling more confident as a social worker with a full year of education and training behind you

* having a broader knowledge base of SW issues

* only one year left to graduation!

* slightly easier academic year becuase you'll know what profs expect and have already taken the base cirriculum

* being more comfortable in the relationship with your peers in the program... having "bonded" from the late night group project preparation and struggling through the program together

* seeing the new 1st year students looking anxious and uncertain, and knowing that you've already "been there, done that" (plus the opportunity to provide them with a mentor, sorta)

That's all I can think of for now, but there could be even more. You'll survive...just think of the STRENGTHS of being a 2nd year student!

Claudine

Jenny,

I'm going to be a 2nd year MSW student this fall as well. My class load will be heavier than last year, so I'm a little bit anxious about it. I took some classes when I wasn't admitted to the program so that met some of my 1st year requirements. So my first year was not as packed with classes as it could have been.

Anyway, I can understand your dread, but I think there will be many good things about being a 2nd year student. The points Claudine noted are very good examples of what positive things we have to look forward to. I'm so glad to have the first year behind me and I'm looking forward to getting more in-depth coursework in direct human services. I'm also really looking forward to my field placement.

Do you get the field placement you wanted? I think that will make a significant difference this year. Last year was such a shot in the dark and there was really no way to know what to expect.

This year will go by quickly and before you know it you'll be going to the graduation ceremony!

Take care,
Nalini