Why I Chose BUSSW
By Alex S., Student Ambassador
Choosing an MSW program can be a daunting task. There are several variables to keep in mind when considering the different social work programs: What does their curriculum focus on? Where is the school located? Is it a reputable institution? What are the field education opportunities? What are the research and professional backgrounds of the professors? How affordable is the program? Do they award scholarships?
When I was in the process of deciding which schools to apply to, I knew I wanted to attend an institution that aligned with my values and passions. This was important, since I would be spending valuable time and money towards an education that would equip me to do clinical social work in the future. Here are a few of the reasons I chose to pursue my MSW at Boston University School of Social Work.
1. Trauma Specialization
Trauma exposure impacts many people. As more research and information is uncovered about trauma’s impact on the body and brain of a person, there has been increased attention and focus on developing trauma-informed practice and care. At BUSSW, students have the opportunity to pursue a Trauma & Violence specialization, and this was an attractive option for me. Within this specialization, I knew I would have the opportunity to take courses that provide evidence-based practice as well as a critical review of the different ways that trauma can occur in a person’s life. Both of these are important for my future social work goals.
2. Social Justice Focus
I am personally passionate about social justice issues such as racism, poverty, and mass incarceration. It was important to me to find a university that addresses and incorporates these issues into its curriculum and culture. At BUSSW, social justice issues are embedded into the School’s curriculum. I was excited about many of the School’s course offerings, including Racial Justice and Cultural Oppression, Ferguson is Everywhere: Lessons for Racial Justice, Clinical Practice with LGBTQ Persons, and Refugees and Immigrants.
3. Field Experience Opportunities
One of the major perks of the BUSSW program is the field education aspect. Boston is a hub for mental health work—there is such a diverse range of agencies and organizations for students to practice either at the clinical or macro level of social work. BUSSW is also affiliated with over 800 different organizations doing all kinds of social work, which allows for a vast pool of options for students to pick from when deciding on field placements. This was important to me!
4. Scholarships
Financial aid was another deciding factor when it came to choosing an MSW program. Let’s face it—graduate school is expensive, and getting as much financial support as possible is a necessity. Fortunately, BUSSW offers merit-based scholarship funding to eligible students. The financial assistance provided through scholarships has helped lessen my financial burden. BUSSW also offers named scholarships that students can apply to once they are accepted into the program, and helps students access information on available work study and federal loan programs.
5. Current Students and Alumni
During the process of deciding which MSW program to attend, I made sure to speak with current and former students at each institution. I spoke to a BUSSW alum and a current student and received honest feedback about their experiences. They also answered questions about living in Boston which was important to me as a student moving to Massachusetts from out-of-state.
Ultimately, it is important to determine what matters most to you in a MSW program and stick with those values as you make your selection. It’s also important to keep in mind that every program has flaws. BUSSW isn’t perfect, but I am very thankful for the community and education it has provided me thus far.