8 answers
Hazel
Student
Spokane, Washington
1
Question
Asked
2794 views
How can I get ahead of the social work path I want to follow as a recent graduate??
I recently graduated high school and I'm planning on starting college next year to pursue social work. Because of complications with my financial assistance, I'm going to work to hopefully cover some of my school costs. Ideally. getting a job that would help me on my social work path would be great but I'm not sure where I could find opportunities like that in my area that's both paid and in that line of work. I also know it would be a reach to find anything like that since I have no experience.
The closest thing I've got is a referral from my mom who works in healthcare to a patient services assistant at a local hospital-- so I'd just be getting insurance info from patients. I haven't applied to it yet and I'm not sure if I'll even get it.
I'm unsure of where to look or who to ask for anything social work related around me. I really just want any experience now that will help me when I start school and to build my resume for future opportunities.
Login to comment
8 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Hazel !
It is lovely that you have come here for advice about getting some experience before going to college for a Social Work Degree ! As a former, long-time intensive Case Manager (my gap job between acting careers) who has worked with all populations in both the inner city and suburbs, I think I can provide you with some information and yes, some hope that will allow you to realize that you can do this.
First, the field that you will get experience in - the social and community services field (not the mental health realm just yet) is quite "no experience" "no degree" friendly. If you have above average interviewing skills, that can get you in. So, you would first start applying to all of the social and community services in your area for positions that do not require a degree. Even if you do data entry, intake, reception work, (and sometimes there are positions working with the clients) you're going to have client contact although not as a therapist just yet. Some Case Management jobs do require a degree, but I have worked with some that did not have a degree. Sharp skills with discernment, critical thinking and great written and verbal skills are needed. There are usually lots of trainings for all employees while you have the job.
Your first step is to go in person to the Community, Housing & Human Services Department in Spokane and explain that you are a future Social Work student and need a list of the social and community services non-profits/agencies that serve the Spokane area. In addition to that, some places to apply to would be (social services places) Spokane Resource Center, Washington Information Network 2-1-1 (connects people with services), Spokane Homeless Coalition, State of Washington DSHS/Community Services Office, Home & Community Services - Spokane Office, Spokane Public Library Social Services, Spokane County Community Services, Lutheran Community Services Northwest, Support for Seniors and Caregivers, Spokane County Community Services Division and there is a Salvation Army office in your city, too. Always introduce yourself as a future Social Work student.
Also apply for work at the Northwest Autism Center and at Neurotherapy Northwest. Also Volunteers of America Eastern Washington (for paid employment), Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners, and Jewels Helping Hands.
The referral from your mom seems nice, but probably wouldn't put you in touch with the clients you would want experience around. Working in social and community services will put you in contact with the populations you'd see as a social worker later on. Remember that the actual social work experience you'll get may be in your Junior and Senior year at college and you wouldn't be able to jump right in just yet. Learning Social Work is a process that needs to be done slowly because there's a lot to learn. You will be a full fledged Social Worker once you get your Masters Degree and Certification and License, so that's something to look forward to. The path there will be interesting and provide the social and intellectual development that you will need for this career.
Keep in mind that doing social service work - if you intend to be employed - can be physically and mentally demanding, even in the lighter roles. Once you enroll in college, you will want to attend full time and there is a way to do this without having an off campus job. You can obtain a Work Study job on campus in the Social Work or Psychology Department by applying for Work Study on your Federal Student Financial Aid Form. This way, you can make a day of being on campus, get experience in your field of study, get paid for it and not have to rush off to an off campus job. Many opportunities will be sure to greet you once you start college.
So, you see, you will not be expected to have any heavy duty actual Social Work experience yet, but you can be introduced to populations and information by working at a community or social services provider. The interview process is crucial, though, especially just starting out. Sharpen your interviewing and communication skills. This field of work, however, is usually very understanding and happy to support people at all abilities and backgrounds, so you're sure to find something !
Tips for the interviews in this field: I know this will sound ironic, but come off upbeat and smile a lot. They are evaluating whether or not you'll be pleasant to work with. Use eye contact, and do not say that you would be enrolling at college in a year, just say you're not sure when because that will make them think you'll take the job and then quit to go to college and that may not sit well with them. Just say that you plan to get a degree in Social Work and you want to obtain experience around the field right now.
Well, I hope this helps. I am confident that you will find an awesome first job as there are a lot of places to apply to in Spokane. Stay positive, read books about mental health, psychology and social work and know that you can do this ! Have a marvelous journey !
It is lovely that you have come here for advice about getting some experience before going to college for a Social Work Degree ! As a former, long-time intensive Case Manager (my gap job between acting careers) who has worked with all populations in both the inner city and suburbs, I think I can provide you with some information and yes, some hope that will allow you to realize that you can do this.
First, the field that you will get experience in - the social and community services field (not the mental health realm just yet) is quite "no experience" "no degree" friendly. If you have above average interviewing skills, that can get you in. So, you would first start applying to all of the social and community services in your area for positions that do not require a degree. Even if you do data entry, intake, reception work, (and sometimes there are positions working with the clients) you're going to have client contact although not as a therapist just yet. Some Case Management jobs do require a degree, but I have worked with some that did not have a degree. Sharp skills with discernment, critical thinking and great written and verbal skills are needed. There are usually lots of trainings for all employees while you have the job.
Your first step is to go in person to the Community, Housing & Human Services Department in Spokane and explain that you are a future Social Work student and need a list of the social and community services non-profits/agencies that serve the Spokane area. In addition to that, some places to apply to would be (social services places) Spokane Resource Center, Washington Information Network 2-1-1 (connects people with services), Spokane Homeless Coalition, State of Washington DSHS/Community Services Office, Home & Community Services - Spokane Office, Spokane Public Library Social Services, Spokane County Community Services, Lutheran Community Services Northwest, Support for Seniors and Caregivers, Spokane County Community Services Division and there is a Salvation Army office in your city, too. Always introduce yourself as a future Social Work student.
Also apply for work at the Northwest Autism Center and at Neurotherapy Northwest. Also Volunteers of America Eastern Washington (for paid employment), Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners, and Jewels Helping Hands.
The referral from your mom seems nice, but probably wouldn't put you in touch with the clients you would want experience around. Working in social and community services will put you in contact with the populations you'd see as a social worker later on. Remember that the actual social work experience you'll get may be in your Junior and Senior year at college and you wouldn't be able to jump right in just yet. Learning Social Work is a process that needs to be done slowly because there's a lot to learn. You will be a full fledged Social Worker once you get your Masters Degree and Certification and License, so that's something to look forward to. The path there will be interesting and provide the social and intellectual development that you will need for this career.
Keep in mind that doing social service work - if you intend to be employed - can be physically and mentally demanding, even in the lighter roles. Once you enroll in college, you will want to attend full time and there is a way to do this without having an off campus job. You can obtain a Work Study job on campus in the Social Work or Psychology Department by applying for Work Study on your Federal Student Financial Aid Form. This way, you can make a day of being on campus, get experience in your field of study, get paid for it and not have to rush off to an off campus job. Many opportunities will be sure to greet you once you start college.
So, you see, you will not be expected to have any heavy duty actual Social Work experience yet, but you can be introduced to populations and information by working at a community or social services provider. The interview process is crucial, though, especially just starting out. Sharpen your interviewing and communication skills. This field of work, however, is usually very understanding and happy to support people at all abilities and backgrounds, so you're sure to find something !
Tips for the interviews in this field: I know this will sound ironic, but come off upbeat and smile a lot. They are evaluating whether or not you'll be pleasant to work with. Use eye contact, and do not say that you would be enrolling at college in a year, just say you're not sure when because that will make them think you'll take the job and then quit to go to college and that may not sit well with them. Just say that you plan to get a degree in Social Work and you want to obtain experience around the field right now.
Well, I hope this helps. I am confident that you will find an awesome first job as there are a lot of places to apply to in Spokane. Stay positive, read books about mental health, psychology and social work and know that you can do this ! Have a marvelous journey !
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Hazel, I am hearing two things- first you want experience in social services, and second you need to work. In an ideal world, these two goals will intersect. Getting that first 'real' job is always challenging; having a personal reference or contact is awesome. If you know you want to work in a certain environment, this may help you narrow down choices. Also, it may depend highly upon the education credentials required. Truly anything working with people in a medical, educational, or social services (think community service, family services) setting will do. A warning, the pay grade may be very low for entry level. Anyone planning on graduate school in counseling, psychology, or social work will intern at several places. You will get tons of experience and choose to specialize or go broad and try different types of settings. As a high school student and graduate, perhaps look at before and after school programs, tutoring, boys and girls' clubs, YMCA or YWCA (not just a gym- they have a lot of resources and supportive programs), a medical office admin (front desk, filing, etc.), homeless shelter or youth center, retirement community (activities team), food bank, - get the gist? Even an undergrad with a college degree will struggle to find a career worthy position in this field. This is because clinical work requires a state license and advanced training. But more positions will open for you as you go through school. In college you might look at a crisis hotline, support helpline (non-crisis), or nonprofit case manager (supportive housing, community mental health, other services aimed at helping individuals or families with barriers to care). If you are unsure what types of services are in your community, check out your local (county, government) website. Even if you cannot find a paid position of interest, try volunteering. You have lots of time to gain valuable expertise, best of luck!
Paul Marcel-Rene
Property Manager
20
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Paul’s Answer
As a professional with 20+ experience as a psychiatric social worker, here is my response:
You're already asking the right questions and thinking ahead—now it’s time to take a strategic and somewhat unconventional approach that can position you well for a resilient and flexible career in social work. Start by volunteering with local social service agencies, especially those that serve unhoused individuals, refugees, children in foster care, or crisis shelters. These settings expose you to the heart of the work and give you insight into the realities of human need—something a classroom cannot replicate. Many agencies welcome volunteers regardless of experience, and this will help you build relationships, references, and real-world understanding.
At the same time, consider pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) before transferring into a BSN program. The reason is this: psychiatric social workers who also have medical knowledge are in increasing demand, especially in hospital settings, integrated care teams, and crisis intervention units. This path also offers flexibility—when social work inevitably leads to emotional fatigue or burnout, your nursing credential will allow you to pivot into other roles temporarily without leaving the helping professions entirely.
After completing your BSN, you can then pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW). By that point, you’ll have both the clinical and psychosocial training to work in high-demand areas such as psychiatric emergency services, behavioral health units, hospice care, or veterans’ services. You’ll also be a stronger candidate for leadership roles and protected from being stuck in low-pay, high-stress jobs that often plague new social workers without clinical credentials or specialization.
So yes, apply to that patient services assistant role—it can open the hospital door. But don’t stop there. Visit agencies, speak to caseworkers, and ask how you can help, even for a few hours a week. This isn’t about just getting ahead—it’s about building a foundation that will sustain you in a profession where burnout is common. By weaving medical and social knowledge together early in your path, you create a future where you’ll always have options, purpose, and balance.
Good Luck.
Paul
You're already asking the right questions and thinking ahead—now it’s time to take a strategic and somewhat unconventional approach that can position you well for a resilient and flexible career in social work. Start by volunteering with local social service agencies, especially those that serve unhoused individuals, refugees, children in foster care, or crisis shelters. These settings expose you to the heart of the work and give you insight into the realities of human need—something a classroom cannot replicate. Many agencies welcome volunteers regardless of experience, and this will help you build relationships, references, and real-world understanding.
At the same time, consider pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) before transferring into a BSN program. The reason is this: psychiatric social workers who also have medical knowledge are in increasing demand, especially in hospital settings, integrated care teams, and crisis intervention units. This path also offers flexibility—when social work inevitably leads to emotional fatigue or burnout, your nursing credential will allow you to pivot into other roles temporarily without leaving the helping professions entirely.
After completing your BSN, you can then pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW). By that point, you’ll have both the clinical and psychosocial training to work in high-demand areas such as psychiatric emergency services, behavioral health units, hospice care, or veterans’ services. You’ll also be a stronger candidate for leadership roles and protected from being stuck in low-pay, high-stress jobs that often plague new social workers without clinical credentials or specialization.
So yes, apply to that patient services assistant role—it can open the hospital door. But don’t stop there. Visit agencies, speak to caseworkers, and ask how you can help, even for a few hours a week. This isn’t about just getting ahead—it’s about building a foundation that will sustain you in a profession where burnout is common. By weaving medical and social knowledge together early in your path, you create a future where you’ll always have options, purpose, and balance.
Good Luck.
Paul
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Hazel,
One of the best things you can do when preparing for a future in social work is to plan ahead, and you're already doing that rather smartly. This "in-between" period, even if you haven't begun college yet, is an ideal opportunity to begin gathering experience that will help you as a future professional and student.
Actually, that recommendation from your mother is a great beginning. Although a job as a patient services assistant may not seem to have a clear connection to social work, it does develop skills that are useful in the field, such as professional behavior in high-stress situations, communication, working with vulnerable populations, and navigating health systems. Accept the position if it is offered to you! It can help you understand how big systems like social services and healthcare work together and open doors later.
You might also consider looking for paid roles like:
- Youth program assistant at a community center or after-school program
- Direct support professional (DSP) for individuals with developmental disabilities
- Care aide or resident assistant in senior living or group homes
- Receptionist or admin assistant in a nonprofit or counseling office
Although these positions might not be classified as "social work," they will expose you to settings where social workers work and help you develop transferable skills including case documenting, empathy, crisis response, and boundary-setting.
Additionally, don't overlook volunteer opportunities. You can gain real-world experience and network with specialists in the industry by volunteering even a few hours each week at a local shelter, food bank, youth club, or helpline. Consult local nonprofits online and at local bulletin boards, churches, and libraries. Some organizations may even provide compensation or minor stipends.
Finally, you may try contacting your local Department of Human Services, your high school counselors, or any teachers you trusted. Inform them of your intention to get a degree in social work and your current search for experience. They may be aware of new opportunities.
Right now, you don't need a flawless job or a ton of experience. Demonstrating your willingness to learn, assist others, and lay the groundwork for your future is what counts most. A great social worker is one who has that mindset. You've already started down the correct path.
Best wishes!
One of the best things you can do when preparing for a future in social work is to plan ahead, and you're already doing that rather smartly. This "in-between" period, even if you haven't begun college yet, is an ideal opportunity to begin gathering experience that will help you as a future professional and student.
Actually, that recommendation from your mother is a great beginning. Although a job as a patient services assistant may not seem to have a clear connection to social work, it does develop skills that are useful in the field, such as professional behavior in high-stress situations, communication, working with vulnerable populations, and navigating health systems. Accept the position if it is offered to you! It can help you understand how big systems like social services and healthcare work together and open doors later.
You might also consider looking for paid roles like:
- Youth program assistant at a community center or after-school program
- Direct support professional (DSP) for individuals with developmental disabilities
- Care aide or resident assistant in senior living or group homes
- Receptionist or admin assistant in a nonprofit or counseling office
Although these positions might not be classified as "social work," they will expose you to settings where social workers work and help you develop transferable skills including case documenting, empathy, crisis response, and boundary-setting.
Additionally, don't overlook volunteer opportunities. You can gain real-world experience and network with specialists in the industry by volunteering even a few hours each week at a local shelter, food bank, youth club, or helpline. Consult local nonprofits online and at local bulletin boards, churches, and libraries. Some organizations may even provide compensation or minor stipends.
Finally, you may try contacting your local Department of Human Services, your high school counselors, or any teachers you trusted. Inform them of your intention to get a degree in social work and your current search for experience. They may be aware of new opportunities.
Right now, you don't need a flawless job or a ton of experience. Demonstrating your willingness to learn, assist others, and lay the groundwork for your future is what counts most. A great social worker is one who has that mindset. You've already started down the correct path.
Best wishes!
Kim Camacho
Human Resources, Inclusion & Belonging, Employee Experience
4
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Congratulations on starting your journey in Social Work! Balancing school and work can be tough, but I believe you can handle it. Many people find it challenging to enter the field, but here are some places you can look for opportunities:
1. Check out jobs at your college or university. I worked in programs that helped first-generation students with applications, financial aid, and book loans. It's a fantastic way to gain experience, help others, and connect with fellow students.
2. Explore non-profits. They often offer jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. Working with them can introduce you to professionals passionate about social work and community service.
3. Use job boards like Indeed or Monster. You can also search for boards focused on social work or community service jobs.
4. Visit your local library to find newspapers and magazines featuring organizations that do meaningful work or offer job openings.
5. Reach out to people in Social Work, including grad students, for informational interviews. Contact Social Work professors for advice and job leads.
Keep pushing forward, and let everyone know you're eager to gain experience. Opportunities will come your way!
1. Check out jobs at your college or university. I worked in programs that helped first-generation students with applications, financial aid, and book loans. It's a fantastic way to gain experience, help others, and connect with fellow students.
2. Explore non-profits. They often offer jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. Working with them can introduce you to professionals passionate about social work and community service.
3. Use job boards like Indeed or Monster. You can also search for boards focused on social work or community service jobs.
4. Visit your local library to find newspapers and magazines featuring organizations that do meaningful work or offer job openings.
5. Reach out to people in Social Work, including grad students, for informational interviews. Contact Social Work professors for advice and job leads.
Keep pushing forward, and let everyone know you're eager to gain experience. Opportunities will come your way!
Myeshia Wells
11
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Myeshia’s Answer
It's fantastic that you have a goal in mind! Start by breaking it into smaller steps while researching where you want to study. Social work is all about helping people, so getting involved in volunteer work is a great idea. Look into local community shelters, food programs for the homeless, housing committees, or elderly care centers. This experience will help you figure out which area of social work you want to focus on. Whether it's supporting kids in schools, helping the homeless with housing, or working with women facing challenges, there are many paths to explore. Take your time to create a plan and look for scholarship opportunities. Visiting campuses and learning about financial options can also be helpful. You have a bright future ahead, and I believe in your ability to succeed!
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Hazel!
TRY https://scc.spokane.edu/ ALSO https://www.ewu.edu/cpp/social-work/social-work/
Speak with Heads of College Social Work Departments about internships in research. This can be facilitated with Humanities search engines. I think you should receive payment for this work.
Elevate your nutritional status by consuming those substances which the brain requires to function extremely well.
It is human empowerment with nutrition. This form of nutritional manipulation can be done without pills. It is done by foods. It can elevate academic results to high distinctions [95%]. Similarly for work performance too.
To get high Grade Point Averages and Perform Well at Work, we must adhere to the principles of very good nutritional intakes. Nourish the Mind!
TRY https://scc.spokane.edu/ ALSO https://www.ewu.edu/cpp/social-work/social-work/
Speak with Heads of College Social Work Departments about internships in research. This can be facilitated with Humanities search engines. I think you should receive payment for this work.
Elevate your nutritional status by consuming those substances which the brain requires to function extremely well.
It is human empowerment with nutrition. This form of nutritional manipulation can be done without pills. It is done by foods. It can elevate academic results to high distinctions [95%]. Similarly for work performance too.
To get high Grade Point Averages and Perform Well at Work, we must adhere to the principles of very good nutritional intakes. Nourish the Mind!
Desiree Gamboa
5
Answers
Bloomington, California
Updated
Desiree’s Answer
Hello Hazel!
I love how you just graduated from high school and eager to plan for your future!! Although we all want that first “perfect” or “dream” job it will be challenging at first but that’s okay because there’s steps that lead to your success. You can keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities around your area to try and get your foot in the door while you are studying. I noticed you stated “ I haven’t applied to it yet and I’m not sure if I’ll even get in” never get discouraged!! You can apply to 100 places and if no one gives you a call back apply to 100 more!! The key here is to never give up!!! The path to success isn’t going to be smooth but once you get there it will be worth it and you are going to be so proud of yourself for all you’ve accomplished!
I love how you just graduated from high school and eager to plan for your future!! Although we all want that first “perfect” or “dream” job it will be challenging at first but that’s okay because there’s steps that lead to your success. You can keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities around your area to try and get your foot in the door while you are studying. I noticed you stated “ I haven’t applied to it yet and I’m not sure if I’ll even get in” never get discouraged!! You can apply to 100 places and if no one gives you a call back apply to 100 more!! The key here is to never give up!!! The path to success isn’t going to be smooth but once you get there it will be worth it and you are going to be so proud of yourself for all you’ve accomplished!