sooo many questions! plz advise.

[dawn321]

hello all...I am looking to apply for my MSW schools in the late fall for admission in the summer/fall of 2013 (advanced standing). I am from CT where we have UCONN school of social work and also semi local is Fordham. Although these are great schools, I do not want to go there. I was able to visit University of Denver and fell in love with the animal assisted social work certificate along with the option of a trauma certificate. The price for that school is ridiculous, and I would have to move cross country (mind you I am 34 yrs old and married). Sooo, I am looking at other schools and my main concern is getting some sort of certificate in addition to my degree. I think I need that additional training since I am already older than most in college and want something to keep me ahead of the pack. I am now looking at Bryn Mawr in PA, still DU, Commonwealth of VA. Any advise is appreciated to help me clear this craziness going on in my head.

Oh, I will be studying clinical and want to work with veterans, mental and physical illness, or hospice for children (yes, quite a variety).

Thank you!

Dawn

[citychild]

I am 33 (will be 34 when I graduate) and understand your fears as I have similar. While I am not married (largely because I am in a same-sex relationship and it is not possible here), my girlfriend and 2 cats will be moving with me for graduate school.

The CSWE website has a great list of accrediated programs searchable by state, concentrations, and certificates (however, animal assisted therapy is not listed). If you like Denver, I encourage you to still consider it (although I understand the price tag fear). I will also be seeking out a certificate, possibly a dual degree if I can get my butt in gear and do the GRE.

CSWE site: http://www.cswe.org/default.aspx?id=17491

While I understand your fears since you (and I) are a bit older than your "average" student, do not let that hold you back. I truly feel we have an advantage from a lot of students since I know my focus is so much more sharp than many of my peers which are more fresh out of high school. I know what it is like to live independently of my parents and have for 15 years.

I know I will be applying to UIC because their out-of-state program is less than $14k for advanced standing. I will also be applying to University of Washington because their out-of-state is $19k. I will probably be doing Macro or, if offered, a CCIP program like UW offers.

I also understand the craziness--I do! But try to not let the fear parallize you.

Edited July 3, 2012 by citychild