General Chat

I've gone to uni, did a degree in Psychology.... what to do next? I'm currently working as a receptionist/administrator at a local firm, nothing pressurised or anything BUT I didn't go to uni to become this. I want to become a social worker/youth worker. But I don't see a way of doing it without going back to uni and I can't afford the time or the money. I feel like crying. I've only just started out and I can't do what I want. Any advice?

Chloe could you not apply for any job inside the social work dept. That way you would be in the service and could advance from there hen. I know a few people that have started this way, i used to work in the social work , and the opertunites, are very rewarding, they also send you on relavent courses you might need in the future....

Chloe With a degree in psychology you are suited to working in a variety of fields - my brother-in-law has gone into Human Resources management with his psych. degree. There must be lots of courses in social work etc for post-grads that should only take a year. Youth workers don't get paid much and I don't think they need many formal qualifications either, just a demostrable ability to get on with young people and vetting by the police. nell

See this site for social work careers: www*.*ca.courses-careers*.*com/socialwork*.*htm nell

stay positive chloe well done on doing your psycology, it couldnt have been easy, my daughters friend is doing psycology, hes a lovely guy, keep looking into what you want to do and youll get thier, see if you can start up a group in your area with help from authority working with young people. i would like to do that but am 40 and have no qualifications, and little if no support in doing it keep your chin up youll get there

Chloe - a friend of mine is in her late 40's might even be 50 (l forgot!!), anyway she does the work of a sociel worker, or very simular and has taken psychology and is now doing her counselling course.She's not been to uni nor is she a trained sociel worker. Ask at your Hospital etc. Good luck - Go Girl!!!!;o)))) jude sarf wales

Thanks everyone. Formal qualifications wise for social work it's a 2 year post grad MA, or 3 year batchelor degree now. I am currently volunteering to help out at the local youth club, it took since September to get that far!! I only started in January! As for places in social work/services - I've not seen any advertised in the local papers or at the job centre. I've been looking since August! It's a good idea. I had a problem with getting a job in the first place after leaving uni cos I didn't have any experience. I have some experience now, but not much. Gawd this is so annoying. Thanks everyone. Chloe x

Chloe - meant to say that my friend has taken psychology whilst doing the work she is doing:o) jude sarf wales