MSW Supplementary Statement: What to Keep in the Closet?

[sbarb15]

Hi all! 

 

I am applying to Masters in Social Work programs, and am wondering how personal is too personal. I tend to be an open book, and feel like my personal history highlights my ability to work with clients working through a variety of issues. However, one of the people who looked over my Statement said that some of the info might be TMI, and could send the impression that I don't have a healthy boundary between personal life and work. I've included the possible TMI section below. In the paper, it is followed by a description of my years of volunteer and professional experiences in direct service with socially vulnerable populations. If y'all could read and respond with your opinions on which parts, if any, are too personal, I'd greatly appreciate it!

 

"I have experienced socially constructed obstacles due to my sexual orientation and gender identity, battled clinical depression and social anxiety, and survived sexual assault. Additionally, my half-brother committed suicide over six months ago, much to the surprise of his friends and family. These experiences have provided me with prospective on the many ways that people cope with trauma. My personal experiences make me aware of our society’s inequalities, and I have committed my professional and volunteer involvement to serving the disadvantaged. "

[PeakPerformance]

I would read this article (http://psychology.un...es_of_Death.pdf), which advises against revealing this type of information. While there are certainly differences between a Ph.D. and MSW program, you don't want to create concerns that you are in any way unstable or unlikely to be able to complete the program. I would simply emphasize that your involvement/volunteer work with the organizations, as well as difficult and challenging experiences in your own life, has helped you develop the compassion and perspective needed to be a successful social worker. In the essay I would focus on your volunteer work and not discuss your personal challenges/experiences in particular (I would just vaguely refer to them).

[sbarb15]

Thanks very much for the feedback! I had taken a look at that article earlier, but wasn't sure how similar Psychology admissions and Social Work admissions were. I'm taking your advice and removing the TMI. Thanks again!

[jujubea]

Why does that link redirect to this thread? 

 

Sounds like you already made a decision, but I would NOT remove the social obstacles you've faced because of your identity. IMO, that can be an avenue for showing how strong of a person you are. Also, with the depression and anxiety, if you show that you have managed it, overcome it, or otherwise not let it overtake your life, you are showing some serious cojones. Just my opinion.

 

Because the suicide is so new, I wouldn't go there, because (shoot, you know this better than I do) the grief cycle can take on such varying lengths and forms. Potentially leading to what Dr. Feldman warns about in her reply.

Edited November 24, 2014 by jujubea