Managing Expectations in a Social Work Field Placement: How Mindset Took Me From Disappointment to High-Profile Press Event

by Ashley Ross

     The COVID-19 pandemic simultaneously gifted and cursed us with content area field placements. They allow MSW students, in small groups, to satisfy their generalist field placement requirement by completing activities around a social work topic instead of being placed in an agency. Although the flexibility is enticing, I knew I would feel cheated of the experience I envisioned. So, I graciously accepted when offered an agency-based position.

     The first week, I went into the office enthused and unshakable. Nothing would stop the successes I’d scrupulously scripted in my mind. I was going to single-handedly solve whatever was thrown my way. Nothing could stop me!

     Nothing except bureaucracy, red tape, and role confusion. Weeks passed, and my field placement hours were still largely unfilled when an opportunity presented itself.

     The organization’s food pantry coordinator quit. Given the essential nature of pantries, my field instructor began quickly thinking of how to find a replacement and turned to me.

     I had never run a food pantry and had no real passion for doing so. Initially, I wanted to say “no,” but I decided to keep an open mind and said ”yes.”

     However, the effort required to keep the pantry running became apparent and stressful quickly. Many times, I questioned my choice and thought, “This isn’t what I want to do with my career.”

Humility Needed

     Here’s the thing, though. I needed a lesson in humility and self-awareness. I’d developed a bit of ego over the years and realized that wouldn’t serve me, especially not in a profession like social work. So, I released my expectations and set an intention—I would leave this placement having achieved career goals: to become more confident in my public image and to do something I hadn’t done before. Not long after shifting my mindset, I achieved both.

     I was informed that a press conference would be held to raise awareness of a hunger-free campus bill, and a student speaker was needed. Again, my supervisor turned to me, and I jumped at the chance!

     So, I spent the next few weeks preparing the pantry for the press conference. Undergraduate volunteers helped on their days off, stayed late, and went over the top to help me.

     The day of the press conference arrived, and before I knew it, I was at the podium addressing legislators, community members, and a news crew. I nailed my talking points perfectly, albeit nervously.

     There were fellow MSW students in my cohort who were displeased with their placements. While I also wasn’t fond of mine, I was left wondering how I could help fellow students grappling with the same issue.

Mindset Shift

     First, keep it all in perspective. It's an academic year, not the rest of your life. Each experience adds to your résumé, and you could end up building skills you’ll take with you for the rest of your career.

     Next, compromise when you can. If compromise isn’t an option, advocate for yourself fiercely but professionally. As social workers, we will continuously face adversity. Get comfortable empowering yourself.

     Finally, lessons can be gained from disappointment. So, maximize the gains and find joy in the experience where you can. Your college’s field office saw something in you and your placement that they thought would benefit but also challenge you. Rise to the occasion. You won’t regret it.

     By shifting your mindset, you can find something unexpected that brings you one step closer to your true potential.

Ashley Ross is a current MSW student with a passion for advocacy, self-care, and career longevity for social workers. Her favorite activities involve writing, experiencing nature, and the more than occasional caffeine fix.