Caitlin

My qualifications were highly valued by potential employers as many had also attended UQ. Employers were able to relate easily to me as they too had first hand experience of studying social work at UQ.

UQ Social Work graduate Caitlin says she was first attracted to The University of Queensland because of the University’s excellent reputation in the social work field.

“I chose to study at UQ because I knew that the social work program was well established.

I always wanted to study at UQ when I was at school because it is a highly regarded university and has a beautiful campus with great facilities for students,” she says.

Caitlin reflects on her time at UQ as a positive one, with lots of opportunities for socialising.

“I found the UQ campus to be a busy and vibrant place. I made some great friends at UQ through studying social work and really enjoyed the social aspect of campus life.”

“The area that I have found most enjoyable and that I am most passionate about is women’s issues, including domestic violence.  I have always been interested in working with women in crisis and my connection to this work began with my fourth year field placement at a small non government organisation that provides a service to women experiencing domestic violence.”

Caitlin is currently employed as a Court Assistance Worker at Legal Aid Queensland.

Her duties include providing first contact and court assistance to women affected by domestic and family violence.

Caitlin also provides intervention services, including interviewing clients and providing crisis counselling.

She explains support options to clients and makes referrals to other agencies.

Caitlin found her qualifications from The University of Queensland were well-respected by employers in the field.

“My qualifications were highly valued by potential employers as many had also attended UQ. Employers were able to relate easily to me as they too had first hand experience of studying social work at UQ,” she says.

Caitlin’s advice for future students is to take full advantage of the practical placements.

“I would recommend students to actively develop a strong social work practice framework. In this framework, it is very important for social workers to have a clear sense of purpose. I would also encourage students to gain practical experience working in the social and welfare field whilst at university- for example, volunteering and youth work.”

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