Social Service Worker - Empower Lives, Foster Change

Graduates of the Social Service Worker (SSW) program at Assiniboine have had a transformative influence, shaping the communities we live in.

Meet Brynn, Amy and Jessica, three alumni from Assiniboine's Social Service Worker diploma program.

What did you enjoy most about the Social Service Worker program?

Brynn - I loved that the class schedule was similar to high school (8:30-4:30 school days) and that the class size was small (less than 30 people). This was the perfect bridge between high school and university classes for me and I wish I had done it straight out of high school! The program structure sets you up for success and the small class size allows you to have more individual support from your instructors. I also liked that the program was entirely run by three instructors, so I didn't have a separate teacher for each class.

Jessica - Our instructors shared all their knowledge and first-hand experiences about being a social worker. Also being in the classroom with the same people every day allowed you to make life-long connections and friendships.

Amy - I enjoyed attending in-person classes full-time with a group of peers who shared the same common goal of learning both on a professional and a personal level. The Social Service Worker program provided an opportunity to learn from professional instructors, community members, and peers with lived experiences.

The program offers the opportunity to learn the theory and skills in the classroom and apply them in practice while on practicum in the field. I truly felt like I was part of a community, and this motivated me to do well and develop my skills further.

How did the Social Service Worker program prepare you for the industry?

Brynn - The program provided me with many essential tools that I've used (and will continue to use) in my career and continuing studies. Many of my classmates also remained in Brandon, so I also created valuable professional connections while studying in this program (including my classmates, instructors, and other professionals I met during my various projects/assignments). Most importantly, taking this program ended up being my introduction to in-depth learning about Indigenous cultures. I was given opportunities to 'learn by doing' by attending ceremonies and meeting and forming connections with local elders and knowledge keepers. I use the tools I gained through this traditional learning to practice my work in a good way every day.

Jessica - The social service program was a great stepping stone for me. It was the confidence booster and skill builder I needed to pursue further education to become a social worker.

Amy - It provided me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to be successful in the social services field.

I always say that I wouldn't have been as successful in my university studies if I hadn't attended the Social Services Worker program at Assiniboine first.

What advice would you give to students considering studying or a career in social services?

Brynn - Start practicing your self-care routine now! It is so important in this field and establishing a routine now will help you succeed in school and your career. Also, there are almost endless opportunities for what kind of work you can do in social services, so keep an open mind while you study as you may find a new area of interest that you didn't know existed before!

Jessica - Take care of yourself first. The social service field requires you to constantly be advocating and caring for others. Don’t lose yourself in that and remember you can’t take care of others if you aren’t taking care of yourself. Start establishing self-care routines in school and stick to them.

Create friendships in which you can hold each other accountable and lean on one another for support. It’s not a job for everyone and it’s okay if you discover that in your schooling.

Amy - I would say that this work is both challenging and rewarding. One must apply the same level of care and attention to oneself as one would to the ones one wants to help. This will improve the quality of service one can provide and ensure that emerging student professionals can take care of themselves first and promote sustainability long-term. Also, know that the learning just begins here, and you have the opportunity to sign up for a lifetime of learning to ensure we move forward as a society in reducing harm and recognizing and validating the harm that has occurred and is occurring in marginalized populations. You must be prepared to be reflexive and honest with your part in this process, and it's okay to learn and unlearn at the same time. You will be among great mentors and peers to support you in the journey.