Course Work and Competencies
The first course that gave me insight to the field of Human Service was actually the first class I enrolled in at city tech which was Intro to Human Service. This course allowed me to understand the different types of vulnerable populations that are located in my community. Also with taking this course it opened my mind to understanding the different types of vulnerable population in the field of human service. What I actually learned about certain populations was revealed to be untrue, whether it was homeless, or LGBTQ, or even immigrates was all presented to be totally different after completing intro to human service. What I took away from completing the course was that human service is a field that is in demand and also can be located in every aspect of our lives.
The next course that helped me mold my mindset to working with this population of developmentally disabled was group dynamics. This course was very engaging but also took great press because it was on a Saturday morning. The course prepared me to work in groups with people that have been diagnosed with mental illness. Participating in this class taught me about the types of groups there are, and rules that need to be followed in order to have an effective group session. What I learned about myself while taking this course was in order to facilitate and co-facilitate a group you must be open minded and have wide-range knowledge on worldviews of your clients.
The assignment I enjoyed was when we were able to have small mock groups to work on our skill as facilitators. I learned that I needed to improve on following the rules that were established in the group because I would always try and speak first when I should have allowed my clients to express themselves first.
The last course that helped me understand the field of non-profit organizations was Resource Development. The project that was assigned to the course was to create an agency, plan a budget, write proposal, and plan a fundraising event. The assignment was one of the hardest ones to date, it was a lot of restless evenings and days called out of work but it was truly the most informative assignment I have received and open my mind up the most. I learned more of what it takes for a non-for-profit organization to be brought together and the role that the board of directors play in the process.
