One of the most important aspects of your application is your ability to communicate, in writing, that you meet all of the requirements of WNMU Social Work Program. This is to be accomplished through a personal narrative. It is of utmost importance that all materials are written exclusively by the applicant. Any indication that someone else has substantially helped with or written this statement is grounds for rejection of the applicant or dismissal from the B.S.W. Program. NarrativeThe personal narrative should be 6-8 double-spaced, typewritten pages using 12-point Times New Roman font. Please type out each question and follow with your response. Your responses will aid the Admissions Committee in assessing your qualifications for professional social work practice. Qualifications looked for are: the ability to think analytically and conceptually; clarity in self-expression (writing and language skills); responsiveness and sensitivity to diversity; commitment to improving social conditions; and the ability to function creatively, responsibly and independently. 1. How do you account for your interest in social work? In your response, discuss paid or volunteer experiences that support your choice of social work as a profession. 2. The profession of social work is committed to social, political, and economic justice, the alleviation of poverty and oppression, and the reduction of social problems. Address a social problem about which you are particularly concerned. Concisely discuss your understanding of social, political, and economic justice. How do you think you can advance the aforementioned? What experiences or factors have shaped your interest in advancing justice? 3. Describe some of your experiences and achievements in school, work (volunteering or employment), and in your personal life. Include a description of any barriers you have encountered in pursuing your education, work, or personal goals. Indicate the steps and strategies you have used or are using to overcome these barriers. 4. Describe some examples and experiences that demonstrate you can work effectively with individuals and communities that diverse populations (for example, but not limited to people and communities, reflecting diverse ethnicities, racial identities, abilities, socio-economic class, gender and/or sexual orientation. Describe any difficulties you have encountered or that you think that you might encounter when working with any of the diverse groups mentioned above. 5. Social work is a profession that has considerable emotional demands on the practitioner. How do you handle stress and what coping skills do you anticipate using as a competent practitioner? 6. University study provides learning opportunities that require an investment of time and energy. Plan to spend an average of 36 hours per week on homework for a full-time load of four courses. In addition, two semesters of field practica require approximately 20 to 24 hours per week. Discuss why you are prepared to attend school at this time in your life and/or career. Please describe plans that you are making to adjust your personal and professional life in order to successfully participate in : a. The coursework, class preparation and assignments. Academic pursuits require approximately 9 hours per week per course. b. Field practica of approximately 20-24 hours per week for 2 semesters. These practica must be completed at practicum agencies during daytime hours; rarely do practicum sites offer night/evening/weekend hours.