INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL WORK
“The International Federation of Social Work has called social work ‘a human rights profession, having as its basic tenet the intrinsic value of every human being.’ The National Association of Social Work stated forthrightly that it ‘endorses fundamental principles set forth in the human rights documents of the United Nations … [and that] human rights be adopted as a foundational principle upon which all social work theory and applied knowledge rests.’ Indeed, it was Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who said: ’the era of civil rights is over; the human rights era has begun.’ Students will learn how this powerful idea of human rights, the bedrock of social justice and directly consistent with the Humanics mission of Springfield College, is directly relevant to global, whole population, at-risk, and clinical interventions, (i.e., the advanced generalist practice), to eradicate social malaises and promote well being.
Knowledge of social work’s global commitments will enable students to integrate internationally accepted standards into practice, as well as prepare them for a variety of positions in organizations ultimately committed to the promotion of world citizenship, and for the improvement of the quality of life for every person, everywhere.”
Joe Wronka, MA, PhD, Professor
Sarah Sullivan,MSW/JD, Class of 2011 Program Director Y.O.U. Inc. Worcester, Massachusetts
“If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere.” The words of Frank A. Clark ring true for the life of a law student. The first year of law school is a tough experience for students around the country. Students wade through courses such as property law, contracts, and rules of civil procedure. The year is filled with long nights of take-out and Dunkin’ Donuts runs, pouring over page after page of legal jargon with a trusty legal dictionary by your side. Dreams are filled with fears of getting cold-called during class, and days are filled with caffeine. My year was no different.
My cold-calling experience happened around mid-semester. In one week, I was called on in all five classes. My worst nightmare had come true. Unlike the social work program, law professors use cold-calling to test your knowledge of class material. Usually two or three students get called per class. When my time came, question after question was fired my way. I was remarkably comfortable during the entire episode, and I attribute my composure to skills I learned in social work Practice 1 and 2, where I became
comfortable explaining, discussing theories, and speaking in front of fellow professionals.
In addition to the support of family and friends during my first year, I had ongoing support from the SCSSW. Even when I was not taking any social work courses, I treated the SCSSW as my safe haven, and whether I needed a confidence boost or a place to seek respite, I was always welcome.
The support I had during my first year was, bar none, the best motivator I could have had. “
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