As this summer is drawing to a close, I cannot help but reflect on one of the most influential experiences that I have been through -- my internship. I just graduated with my undergraduate degree in social work and I am finishing up an internship before I start the graduate program in the fall. The major requires a 480 hour internship for the undergrad degree, unpaid of course. While I absolutely love my major, I was less than thrilled to spend my last summer working full time. But, I am so glad that I had to.
My passion is addictions. Everything in school and classes that I have focused on throughout my college career has been focused on addictions. I find it interesting and unique. I have had the opportunity to do my internship in an outpatient substance abuse treatment center. I have had one of the greatest experiences being able to learn and grow within the profession. My supervisor is one of the greatest people that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and the agency I am interning at is an amazing atmosphere.
As I have been reflecting back on my internship as it is drawing to a close, it has dawned on me why it is required for students to take part in a field placement. The most important thing that an internship provides it that it is a chance for you to develop professionally. Growing professionally and figuring out your professional self is one of the most important, as well as difficult things to do. Being able to have practice while you are a student gives you a chance to be stronger once you are done with school. When you are interning, it is alright to make mistakes and it is alright not to have all the answers. The internship gives you a chance to practice and ask experienced professionals questions. It helps build up your tool box. Also, an internship is an incredible way to network. Networking is key as a professional and networking when you are still a student will give you a head start once you are graduated and looking to start out professionally. I was able to figure out who I am, make professional connections, as well as practice doing something I love.
While I only touched on a few important points, internships offer even more. It is all about what you make of it and what you take from the experience. It can be absolutely anything you want it to be. I would encourage anyone, even if it is not a mandatory part of your major, to do an internship. It is an opportunity that is definitely worthwhile if you make it.
