Student’s description of site-specific activities this quarter: – I am a firm believer that when you are new to an organization, you don’t just come in and change things. Just take notes and observe. This is vital when working with those under the age of 18. I am aware it takes time to build a positive, trusting relationship with youth. So, when I started my practicum, I got permission to write a blurb about myself. I posted it on the refrigerator and bulletin board, and made various origami art and placed one in each person’s mailbox. My introduction read:

My name is __________. I am a _____year-old ______ graduate student obtaining my master’s degree in Social Work. When you hear the words “social work” it probably conjures up both good and bad thoughts. I do hope you will share these thoughts with me. I am studying and learning about why so many young people are homeless and in foster care. I also want to learn how a youth survives without them. I am curious in learning how your life is similar to a homeless youth, foster youth or “typical” youth.

One of my goals and beliefs as a youth advocate is that young people should not be burdened with adult issues. My experiences have taught me the best way to do this is to have some FUN and enjoy life. Thus, one of my goals is to start to offering community events such as putting together festivals, going to parks, museums, outdoor and indoor theater etc. Another one of my goals is to sit around and have Snack & Chat sessions talking about what’s on your mind such as how to improve your life, apply for college, how to get ones relatives, friends, teachers, boyfriends, girlfriends, community, employers, teachers, and employers to listen to you . I am open to doing this individually or in a group setting. I hope we can begin to build a relationship.