Okay this has been on my mind

I know for a long time I said I wanted to be a nurse but something has changed in me and even though I gave it some thought because of being finacially independant I just don't feel like that is what I am called to do. I have always wanted deep down to be a social worker and lately I feel it more. I do worry though I want to be finacially independant and I don't know if I would be able to be that as a social worker. So I wonder what everyone thinks and if anyone here has any success in social services. I guess I need some encouragement.

Go with your gut feeling but be prepared for heartache.

That is one of the things I worry about I truly care about people and I worry that I would find it hard to stay detached.

Originally Posted by Tavia'smom

That is one of the things I worry about I truly care about people and I worry that I would find it hard to stay detached.

Click to expand...

You could have that problem in either of those professions. Whatever you choose, I'm sure it will be the right decision for you. Good luck!!

Both will allow you to help people.

Nurse-MANY jobs to be had in many different areas. I know that I REALLY depend on the nurses when I have to deal with a doc. The nurse is the one that can talk "human" and has the time to answer any questions I have.

Social Works-helps people also BUT very hard to get a job AND it will take your heart out and stomp it in the ground. There are SO many "rules" you will have to follow that you feel as if you are banging your head against a wall. You will KNOW what needs to be done BUT something will get in the way.

Teacher (I am a Kdg. teacher)-helps lots of people (18 kids AND their parents). You are a teacher, nurse, social worker, guidance counselor, etc. MANY ways to help many people.

Look at the statistics on how many people last more than 5 yrs. as a social worker.

Good luck with what every you do. Think about asking if you can shadow a couple of people in all three fields. Find as many as you can and talk to them about the pros and cons.

Kim

I am a social worker and it is the most rewarding job, as well as difficult at times. I currently work with the elderly, which is something I never pictured myself doing. The most frustrating part is their families, or the lack there of. I have had a number of clients pass away, and there have been a few that have upset me, solely because I was so close to them. But I know that when I lose a client from my caseload, whether to death or a NH placement, that it opens the door for a new client that I can help.

I did not have trouble finding a job, and I make a decent salary even working at a non-profit.

If it is something you have always wanted to do, do it. I went to school for 18 months thinking I'd be a early ed teacher and then decided I wanted to help families from the other side of the table so to speak. I never regret it.

Leslie

One thing is for sure and that is you don't want to end up stuck in a career that you are not 100% happy with and fullfilled by. Life is FAR too short. Money isn't everything darlin'. I wish you best of luck no matter what you do though!