****Direction fir the The Autobiographical Sketch- Personal Statement
The purpose of this section is twofold: to get to know you as an individual and your journey toward the social work profession and to evaluate your writing skills. This is a sample guideline; I Goggled the article below, you may choose to write using a different outline or style. The choice is yours. I look forward to reading your application – Sandra Gammons, LGSW Director of Admissions& Enrollment Management
A traditional autobiography may be hundreds of pages and can cover dozens of mundane interactions in minute detail. A graduate school autobiographical essay, however, should be much shorter and to the point, highlighting achievements and life events that are relevant to your studies or display an important aspect of your character.1
Grabbing Their Attention
You need to grab the attention of your readers in the first sentence or two, so steer clear of platitudes, truisms or statements any student could make such as, “XYZ school is the school of my dreams.” Instead, try telling a compelling story, introducing an interesting quote or presenting the ideas of a philosopher, writer or politician. The theme in this hook should tie into your essay in some way. If, for example, you’re applying to grad school in political science, you might introduce a quote from Thomas Jefferson or present a scene rife with political conflict.
The Thesis Statement
Because you’re not writing an argumentative paper, it’s easy to forget the importance of a thesis statement. A thesis helps define the scope of your autobiographical essay and makes it easier for you to remain focused on your primary point. Try a thesis such as, “My life experiences have prepared me for graduate school by….” or “I know that I can contribute to the XYZ school community because…” Sometimes the thesis in these essays actually fits better at the end, as a conclusion, but it’s typically easiest to put the thesis at the end of the first paragraph.
Elements to Include
Outline relevant information that’s not already in your application packet. You might mention charitable work, any hardships you’ve overcome, lessons you’ve learned in your job or ways your life has caused you to choose a particular career path.
Completing the Essay
Meticulous proofreading can save you the embarrassment of a typo or misspelling, so read through your essay several times and have another person do the same. Conclude your essay by thanking your readers for their attention, emphasizing the ways in which the ideas you’ve outlined make you an ideal fit for the school you’ve chosen and — if appropriate and if space permits — including a brief sentence or two about why you’re excited to attend the school you’ve chosen.
***Questions for my personal statement
Which experiences (employment, community service, social, educational, personal or others) have significantly influenced your interest in social work?
Once you graduate, what are your career goals? How do you envision your field of practice influencing the outcome?
A. Spearhead Domestic Violence policy and procedure for Parole & Probation Workgroup
B. Middle Atlantic State Correctional Association Conference Presentation Violence Prevention and Intervention
C. Training and Mentoring of new employees
D. Organizing and Participating in community initiative and outreach services in the Black/Disadvantages Urban Community,
Dear ________________
I recommend Senior Agent Kaeshawn Stewart, Domestic and Violence Prevention Special Unit. She is currently, Certified as a Victim Assistance Specialist VASIII. Her level of expertise in the field of victim services
and her desire to help those in need to heal is truly amazing. Agent Stewart is a positive strength to those who know her and to those who have had the pleasure of working with her during her 23 years of service with the DPSCS. Agent Stewart, manages her caseload through evidence-based practices. She screens clients for placement in community rehabilitation and treatment facilities. Agent Stewart also arranges employment, housing, medical care, counseling, education, drug testing, and social activities.
Agent Stewart assess clients’ risk to the community and types of services required to help assist them with their adjustment back into the community. Agent Stewart assist clients with community life adjustment with a goal to prevent recidivism and re-victimization. She works closely with the police departments and other community stakeholders to investigate
client violation allegations and criminal behavior. Additionally, due to Agent Stewart’s exceptional oral and written communication skills, she represents the Department in court, administrative hearings, judicial proceedings, and Parole Board hearings. In 2013, Agent Stewart was certified as a trainer through the state of Maryland.
Good Morning.
Thank you so much for completing this for me….
* It looks Howard University…… would like for you to tell a little about yourself…LOL (It looks like they are going to just send you a link)— but you can send me a copy of the letter too/
*I found my old REC-letter (see below)
*The additional information you asked about
A. Spearhead Domestic Violence policy and procedure for Parole & Probation Workgroup
B. Middle Atlantic State Correctional Association Conference Presentation Violence Prevention and Intervention
C. Training and Mentoring of new employees
D. Organizing and Participating in community initiative and outreach services in the Black/Disadvantages Urban Community,
Dear ________________
I recommend Senior Agent Kaeshawn Stewart, Domestic and Violence Prevention Special Unit. She is currently, Certified as a Victim Assistance Specialist VASIII. Her level of expertise in the field of victim services
and her desire to help those in need to heal is truly amazing. Agent Stewart is a positive strength to those who know her and to those who have had the pleasure of working with her during her 23 years of service with the DPSCS. Agent Stewart, manages her caseload through evidence-based practices. She screens clients for placement in community rehabilitation and treatment facilities. Agent Stewart also arranges employment, housing, medical care, counseling, education, drug testing, and social activities.
Agent Stewart assess clients’ risk to the community and types of services required to help assist them with their adjustment back into the community. Agent Stewart assist clients with community life adjustment with a goal to prevent recidivism and re-victimization. She works closely with the police departments and other community stakeholders to investigate
client violation allegations and criminal behavior. Additionally, due to Agent Stewart’s exceptional oral and written communication skills, she represents the Department in court, administrative hearings, judicial proceedings, and Parole Board hearings. In 2013, Agent Stewart was certified as a trainer through the state of Maryland.
The profession of social work provides support to the most vulnerable populations. Classroom topics can be emotionally triggering for students. What strategies would you use to manage your own emotions, and to respond to the emotional reactions of others during challenging conversations?
Provide a candid discussion of your strengths and weaknesses. Which qualities do you consider essential for the social work profession?
Discuss what you consider to be the most important social justice issue(s) today. What is the role of a social worker within the social justice movement?
Read carefully the Mission Statement above. How will your interests and career goals be met at the Howard University School of Social Work?
First year students are not guaranteed funding from Howard University. State specifically your plan for financing your education. Allowed file formats are txt and doc
*****Information about myself for my personal statement
Information for Personal Statement
Education and training is top priority for me; I expect my children, program participants and
clients/students to strive to exceed goals set forth in different arena. I am committed to serving the
needs of my community. I am a survivor of molestation, child neglect, physically, and sexually abuse,
and domestic violence. I dedicate my life to giving people things to say yes to, like education, creative
expression and hard work by exploring and emphasizing characteristics of persons who have overcome
great obstacles.
I graduated from the University of Baltimore and Coppin State University collaborative joint program
earning my Master’s Degree in Human Services Administration, Family Counseling. I graduated with the
highest honor, The President Award. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and
Rehabilitation Counseling from Coppin State University where I graduated with Distinguish Honors
earning the highest G.P.A in my graduating class. I pride myself on my work ethic, selflessness and
devotion to all that I engage. This opportunity will allow me to not only share my passion but encourage
others to find and live up to theirs.
Attending ____________, will afford me opportunities for advancement to learn from outstanding faculty who are experts in the topic they teach both locally and internationally. I am the founder and CEO of Kreative Healing Trauma & Wellness Services, LLC. For 10 years, I’ve provided tools to utilize self-expression through different types of dance (modern, jazz and hip hop) and movement through youth, individuals and groups complementary approaches to processing thoughts and feelings. Services are used in therapeutic, rehabilitative, educational, and community setting to foster holistic health and healing to victims by way of creative communication, and expression.
In April of 2013, I was appointed to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Director of Dance for Full Gospel
International Gospel Church. I lead the spiritual experience of religious dance interpretation of God’s
word. Organize Christian-centered groups and routines for the Dance Ministry consisting of children and
adults of all ages who praise the Lord through unique expressions of dance.
Presently, I over 20 years Justice Involved, Crime and Victim Services. There are a number of areas with all of the organizations that have opportunities for improvement. This training combined with my education, life and work experience will better position me to become a vehicle for change within the organization while also allowing me to better serve our delicate population.
My mission is to assist person I encounter find a supportive community for personal and professional
growth. I fully believe that ¬¬¬¬¬______________for my future goal for becoming _______________ is the best place for me to purse my dreams. I am determined to set up my career as an influential person, equipped with a cool head and a warm heart, being capable of dealing with today’s tough situations by serving the disadvantaged population and to raise social awareness. Undoubtedly, my enthusiasm and experiences have made me well prepared for this program. I thank you in advance for your consideration in this program.
Best Regards,
KaeShawn Stewart
