Year One – Post Master’s Degree
Aminda Jacobs, MSW, Social Worker,
Henry Ittleson Center
First off, congratulations! Between worrying about the new licensing law and
searching for a job, you might not realize how much you’ve accomplished.
But relax. Navigating new career waters and negotiating unfamiliar roles as
a fresh graduate doesn’t have to be difficult. Foremost, trust your instincts.
You know more than you think. Here are seven tips that helped me as a new graduate
over the past year.
• Don’t take the first job offer you get. Many
people wonder if they should sacrifice major things they want (i.e. a job location
close to home; the field they wanted to pursue, etc.) because they aren’t
getting offers right away. Be patient if you can. A horrendous commute or a
population that doesn’t click with you will wear you down in the long
run.
• Carve out a niche for yourself. Have a particular interest
in adoption? Substance abuse? Join professional organizations and read magazines
specifically related to your budding specialty. It’s the best way to start
networking and getting your name known to possible employers.
• Find a mentor. Some people might assume this is someone
official, but it doesn’t have to be. A mentor can be anyone with whom
you’re comfortable and who provides guidance on topics ranging from approaching
your supervisor with an issue to figuring out the latest Sopranos’ plot.
Can’t think of anyone? Professors love when students come back to them.
• Keep in mind first jobs are meant to be difficult. Even
if you seem “stuck” in career hell, learn as much as you can. If
anything, you’re discovering how much strength, patience, and resilience
resides within you.
• Create a pocket of support. Every office has its cliques
and dysfunctional dynamics that were formed long before your arrival. That doesn’t
mean you have to be a part of it. Find people who speak to your own interests
and who lift your spirit. A quick phone call to a colleague just to scream,
“argh!” works wonders.
• Chocolate helps. Take a few minutes a day to treat
yourself. Close your office door (or blockade your cubicle) and quietly reward
yourself.
• Think about seeing a therapist. Use your supervision
to the fullest, but sometimes our clients stir up new emotions and old issues
within us. Seeking help is part of taking care of yourself as well as your clients.r