Are there any Social Workers or Paralegals on this site?

Social work is an amazing job (I’m currently studying psychology to working within the public social service system) but the job depends on what level of care you want to provide. Clinical positions in social work generally require a minimum of a masters degree–the programs are around 60 graduate credits (two years of full time study) they also require internships and additional educational requirements. LCSW’s, depending on your state, can provide mental health counseling, assessment, and other services either independently or under the supervision of another mental health practitioner. There are also general tracks in social work which aren’t as stringent–work at public social service agencies, hospitals, etc., providing direct non-clinical care (basically, no counseling). Paralegals also depend on your state or even what employer you wish to work for. Generally, large employers prefer someone with at least a bachelors degree in paralegal studies, but you can attain certification with just a certificate or associate degree. Paralegals don’t do direct court work or litigation but the paralegals job is primarily behind the scenes… and it can involve quite a lot of work! You’ll do much of the grunt work for a law firm (again it depends on what type of practice you’ll work for). There’s also the corporate world which hires paralegals. Both are amazing careers and luckily I have family and friends in both fields–they’re a lot of work (esp. social work, you may not get the pay, for example, as a paralegal might but it’s particularly rewarding to many people). Best of luck to you!! :-) -S