Dec. 3, 2018
By Chris Woodley, cwoodley@mailbox.sc.edu
Amanda Mickey did not travel far for her undergraduate and graduate education. A native of nearby Irmo, S.C., she earned her Bachelor of Social Work earlier this year and will graduate in May 2019 with her Master of Social Work, thanks to the college’s Advanced Standing program. In addition to her studies, she is currently an acute care coordinator intern at Palmetto Health Richland.
What inspired or motivated you to study social work?
The volunteer work I did in high school inspired me to study social work. I volunteered at nursing homes and realized the need for social work while I was there. Some of the elders felt that they had been forgotten by society, and this inspired me to advocate for the social and environmental needs of the geriatric population. I have also always had this innate feeling of wanting to help people and find fulfillment in helping people even today.
Why did you decide to attend the UofSC College of Social Work for your BSW and MSW?
The BSW program allowed me to use what I was learning in class in a field placement, and I also liked the elective options. I choose to continue my education and earn my MSW at USC because I enjoyed the learning experience in my BSW. This also allowed me the opportunity to complete my masters in one and a half years in the Advanced Standing track.
How important was it for you to complete your MSW in 11 months through the college’s Advanced Standing program?
It was very important for me to be admitted to the Advanced Standing program since I knew that financially it would be difficult to complete my MSW in two years. I also felt that my BSW degree prepared me for the Advanced Standing program and did not want to waste time.
What class is having the most impact on your social work studies?
The psychopathology class I am now taking has had the most impact on my social work studies and internship experience. Understanding how to utilize the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) is very useful at my field placement. My crisis intervention class also did a great job in fully explaining all theories and models to utilize when helping clients.
What do you enjoy most about field education?
I have enjoyed being able to use what I learn in class during my field education. Completing a biopsychosocial assessment was complex, and I was grateful to have the help of my field instructor. Now I can properly evaluate and assess a client in a hospital setting. I look forward to growing my referral and critical thinking skills for the rest of the year.
How has the College of Social Work faculty and staff helped you overcome any challenges to help you best succeed?
Jennifer Bosio-McArdle was not only an amazing teacher but also an amazing field coordinator. She is always willing to help me figure out a problem and has great insight into field education and social work.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to obtain my LMSW and practice within a hospital as a case manager.