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What is one challenge in social work that you didn’t fully anticipate when you started, and how did you learn to navigate it?

I am an adult learner pursuing my degree in Social Work.

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Portia’s Answer

When I first started, I was surprised by how many people didn’t know what a social worker does. Many assumed it meant taking kids away, like CPS. It was frustrating because social work is so much more! Even my coworkers, like nurses and doctors, often didn’t understand how I could help them or the patients. I felt like I had to constantly prove my worth.

Here’s how I dealt with it: I realized I needed to educate others, not just be upset. So, I started talking to my coworkers, explaining how I could help with different tasks. I even suggested setting up a 'meet the social worker' chat so everyone could understand my role. I created a simple flyer listing the main things I could help with and shared it with everyone. I also made sure to step in and help whenever I saw a need.

My advice to you: Don’t be discouraged if people don’t understand your job right away. Use it as an opportunity to show them how amazing and versatile social workers are. You’re not just there to fill a seat; you’re there to make the whole team better!
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Mit’s Answer

One challenge I didn’t fully anticipate when I started social work was the emotional weight that comes with hearing and carrying people’s stories. You learn about boundaries in theory, but in reality, it can be difficult not to take that emotional load home with you, especially when you genuinely care about the people you’re supporting.

Over time, I learned to navigate this by building strong boundaries and focusing on self-care without losing empathy. Talking with peers, seeking supervision, and reflecting on my experiences helped me process things in a healthy way. I’ve also learned that you can care deeply without carrying everything—being present, supportive, and professional is what truly makes a difference.
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