Why More Social Workers NEED To Choose Macro: Make a Huge Impact + Have A Seat At the Table

[@MindyourSociety]

Hello everyone! Have you ever considered doing macro social work? Why or why not?

[@nelliajanellia]

Yes, the closest school for macro is 1 hr away though... I think I'm going to a school that closer in September...

[@healwithmare]

I’ve been looking more into macro social work. In general I just think earning an MSW would open a lot of doors for me in the future

[@monicareyna85]

I’m looking into macro social work but there’s a lot of self awareness that is required which I believe is another reason why some people may quit (myself included). I’ve spoken to several colleagues and they all tell me to keep going, including my therapist and have received positive feedback. It’s a matter of changing our mindset of how we see things, that’s what it means to become an adult open to change.

[@alexisperez520]

I’m receiving my MSW in May 2021, and I am considering macro but I think I’m simply experiencing imposter syndrome like do I even have the knowledge to do that. I feel more equipped to do micro. Ugh it’s so scary haha

[@gracemolloy2491]

Currently considering macro social work and trying to decide where to go to grad school. I’ve narrowed it down to NYU and Columbia. Any thoughts or tips anyone has would be appreciated!

[@healwithmare]

I majored in social work in undergrad and considered getting my MSW, but didn’t. If I had known more about macro social work, I would have definitely moved forward. We need more Black women in those spaces!!🙌🏾

[@MindyourSociety]

Yes we totally do! Man, I don’t understand why macro is not a core part of every MSW or BSW curriculum. That’s one reason it’s so unknown to people.

[@rosaswan2323]

I'm looking into applying for MSW programs. My passion is housing access, homelessness prevention, and home ownership, and I think macro is perfect for me!

[@balakkei]

I'm considering macro social work alongside micro and also clinical psych. Right now I'm torn about how much one-on-one time I think I can handle with clients vs. thinking in terms of societal issues that, if fixed, would cause a lot of people to not need therapy. Plus the huge financial difference of clinical psych vs sw and the intense competitiveness of academia are also playing factors. I'm currently in my last couple semesters getting a BS in Psych, so hopefully I'll know before I'm done!

[@DyannDrew]

The only thing that makes me question the Macro is being able to break in and get a job without experience. Cause I have my undergrad in International studies and Non profit management. I work at a pyschiatric hospital now. I really want to help people when they at they're worst to get their life on track. I love the idea of the Macro. But I don't have those experiences to get a sit at the table.

[@Tish.H]

Your channel has really helped me to learn a lot about social work! Thank you for the in-depth breakdowns.

[@RaShante-h7l]

I’m a macro social worker and I love it! I will say that as a macro social worker it’s all about marketing. My degree is social work but my roles and responsibilities are much broader than that. I agree more social workers need to get into macro work

[@MindyourSociety]

Yes you really do have to market how your skills can fit other areas !

[@Mariah203]

I'm starting my MSW this fall with a specialization in community, policy and political action. I'm currently in the process of choosing a field placement and I was just wondering what kind of field placements do you suggest for someone who wants to do macro social work? I want to do macro social work but I also don't want to pigeon hole myself so I was thinking it might be beneficial to get at least one year of micro social work experience for the sake of being well-rounded. Do you think that's beneficial?

[@tanajastancil245]

I’m starting to consider macro social work. I used to not be interested because in undergrad it used to announced as dealing with policy and procedures. And policy always sounded boring to me. But after watching more videos on it it’s an array of options you can do. And plus I agree with you, POCs need to be more involved in the change they want to see.

[@kasparbhauser9707]

I'm newly interested in a social work degree, I'm in my first semester of college and your videos are a fantastic help thank you! Definitely saving this to come back to later.

[@Llm269]

These videos are so helpful! I'm doing Macro SW and am super interested in research & policy. It feels like no one does macro SW so it is so nice to hear you talk about it and normalize it! I also have no interest in clinical licensure lol. your videos are so inspirational and help me stay motivated in my 3 years of grad school

[@Caitlincycling]

I love this idea of urban development from a SW lens!

[@Rosonicole]

Congratulations for following through with your journey. For being a leader and making a difference. I’m looking into switching careers and being in macro social work. Being an advocate and the person with the education and voice is powerful. So thank you for being that for all of us! Being a 4x minority I feel this is something I’m being called to do. I love reading books and discussing important topics of our community and society. Im looking to surround myself with likeminded individuals more and more. So awesome to have ran across your video thank you!

[@karissarosen2450]

One of my professors often assigns your videos as a part of our homework, and I have to say, I really love it. Your videos are very informative, and I can tell you're seriously passionate about being a social worker. I think the sub-filed of Macro social work is definitely overlooked, and to be honest I was one of those overlooking it up until now. This specific video really got me thinking, and I would love to conversate more whenever you have the time! Thank you for all the information and please continue making these videos! You're great!

[@mjsoskie]

Im almost done with my MSW and I agree with you that we dont hear enough info about Macro SW. It is something that has always interested me so thank you for these videos because they are very informative.

[@MindyourSociety]

Congratulations on completing your MSW! And you are so right. Why isn’t it spoken about more?

[@chowder8427]

this was really inspiring for me and helped me rethink how I'm moving forward in helping others~

[@carmenitaspann-clark5616]

I will be starting a new position as a macro social worker after many years in direct practice. This new journey is exciting and a bit scary as there is always the unknown. So glad I found your videos. Keep encouraging more of us to make the leap into macro as we are definitely needed at the table.

[@michaelmorales7760]

Thank you so much for such encouraging and insightful information about macro-level social work! I'm returning to school (community college) after a 4 year hiatus and a total career shift, and keeping an open mind to find my niche. I want to be a steward for change and am inspired by social justice and community engagement. I'm studying sociology and human services, with the goal of transferring into a BSW and work towards macro!

[@christophercortez5951]

Thank you for this insightful video. I am on the fence as to which area to focus on, and this was extremely helpful. Thank you so very much!

[@julin8597]

Fantastic video! I just found it now but I will do my research now.

[@Dumbbellsandcoffee]

I've been binge watching your videos these past couple of days... I'll be definitely be looking more into Macro social work. I think I might fit more in the mezzo, but we'll see. Thanks for your videos ❤

[@charlotteeolsen8397]

Love this

[@TinaBizzell]

Great video and very detailed! You answered so many questions for me in regards to this field ❤

[@spikedupleo]

Thank you for this video, I’m going into my senior year of my BASW going into field practicum in the micro sector. However, I feel like I lean more towards macro work. So I’ll be looking at your playlist to see what is out there. Thank you for this video.

[@dawnbaskin649]

I’m starting grad school in the fall and will specializing in macro!

[@aminatasylla4577]

You are amazing thank you so much for your courage to motivate us, us a black women ❤❤❤

[@dommicalizzi8119]

I love your channel so much!! I am one of very few students interested in Macro in my generalist BSW cohort and I often feel isolated and lost, but your videos always make me feel valid.... and sane.

[@monicapolanco7553]

Love this video! I’m in the MSW program and am currently taking a community organization course. I am super interested in macro social work! I’ll be taking a look at your website and other videos! Thanks!!

[@d.w.714]

I am looking into Outreach work. And it looks like it pays well.

[@neekab13]

Yyyyeeeeessssss, to EVERYTHING you are saying. I can't wait to connect with you

[@Luwanda_m]

I love you😍 This video really helped me with my assignment as a 1st year student.

[@Fenimore1]

Thank you! Starting graduate school in the fall. It is important and I will learn macro and direct social work. You just made a light go off in my head. Your channel is the best. God bless

[@MindyourSociety]

Yes please consider both!! Thank you for your nice comment.

[@jooondayz]

congrats, Keisha! what city will you be studying in?

[@Fenimore1]

@@jooondayz Thanks June! Yeshiva University in New York City.

[@Fenimore1]

@@MindyourSociety Can I have your website address?

[@Fenimore1]

@@jooondayz Gerontology

[@reyzziiy]

i start social work practice with communities tmrw and this videos are so helpful and interesting! the macro field sounds intriguing.

[@nathanventura7194]

I just wanted to say thank you because I LOVE your videos! I’m a senior in high school and will be starting my BSW program in the fall. I’m interested in both macro and micro. The school I plan on going to teaches about careers in both. Although, I believe I’m leaning towards macro because it creates change on a greater scale. (Especially because my dream is to live in the city) I know Social Work is my calling. I’ve always been great at advocating for people who can’t do it for themselves! I’m just worried about money and it being a high burnout field. I’ve seen your videos about the highest payed social workers ( it’s not about the money but I do want to be financially stable) but so many people in my personal life told me not to go into it. That it is a horrible and sad field. Which makes me extremely nervous🥺 I just want to be happy and know that I’m making a difference in a world that’s in desperate need for change🧡

[@MindyourSociety]

Thank you so much for watching! I’m happy you enjoy my videos. Yes I hear you about those nerves. But you are doing the proper research which is important! At the end of it all, you have to follow your heart

[@saki-lx3jc]

omg right i’m a junior and it’s like i keep ending back up at social work like i want to do hr but everyone tells me social working is depressing and you don’t make money but i want to be financially stable so this is so harddd

[@larayealderman200]

I can recall my brother telling me when I graduated HS that Social Workers did not make much money. (How much is enough ?) He killed my dream, as my brother I looked up to him. I found myself going from job to job not being satisfied, only to end up where I suppose to be social work. This is my purpose!!! This is what I excell at and this is where I feel at my best. Don't let the nay sayers distract you.

[@ifeyinwaphilomena9638]

I am currently studying Msc in social work at University of Nigeria, l will love to join other social works,

[@healwithmare]

Glad you named the importance of direct impact social work, while still sharing why macro social work is your preference, as well as why more people of color should look into macro social work. I learned so much from this video. Advanced licensing you say?🤔

[@MindyourSociety]

Oh I’m so happy you learned something new from this video. Yes, some states have the option for professionals to get an advanced license in macro, and others don’t, pushing people to get an LCSW even though they aren’t interested in clinical. I think advanced macro license should be an option across the board!

[@neverendingparty2060]

Hey, I am a student just about to finish up my associate of arts. I have thought about being a financial advisor, teacher, politician, psychologist, and many other social science-focused fields. I have found that across the board every interest I have had I was in it because I was deeply invested in the growth and development of individuals. I read studies that lead me to believe that much of peoples growth and development can be undermined by the systemic issues within our society. I dropped hundreds of community service hours into my surrounding area and started creating programs and initiatives to help alleviate some of the effects of those issues. Someone recommended I look into social work. Is there anything I should know, places I can look for information or ways to prepare? I take Intro in the fall and I am annotating my text as I give back to the program that saved my life. I hope to learn more this summer to more effectively serve my community and step into more of the roles I have been asked to fill. I feel if anyone can sympathize I would find them here or on your page. Hope to hear back from someone soon, A social science student

[@anafigueroa1396]

Hi and thank you for this video because I’m looking into pursuing Macro practice! I’m a disaster case management social worker for a non-profit and I took the position because I really want to gain some experience in direct practice before I pursue a career in Macro Social Work. I enjoy working with people but I’m very interested in creating larger systemic change and I think Macro does that. Sometimes I do hold back and wonder if my strengths are more suited for direct practice vs macro. I agree that this practice is not talked about as much and I wish people would because it would help me decide whether it’s what I want to do in my social work career. I hope to view more of your videos on Macro social work. Great content!

[@MindyourSociety]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting! And you can build the skills needed over time. But a lot of the direct practice skills overlap

[@RichSocialWorker]

I've just recommended this video to my most recent request on this topic. I love macro social work and that you promote it specifically so I can stick with talking about entrepreneurship. LOL. Great information as always. Thanks, Gabby!

[@MindyourSociety]

Ahh thank you! Haha. I appreciate you watching.

[@MichelleRautenbach]

I have been binging your videos they have been so insightful! Thank you for sharing x

[@BenJovi290]

Thank you for making these videos!

[@olabodeajose9294]

Brilliant

[@MindyourSociety]

Thank you

[@gretchenward842]

Love your video! I am going to start sharing this with all of my students for my macro classes!

[@MindyourSociety]

Thank you!

[@LoveStarsWorld]

I would love to have those conversations with you. You've got my wheels turning...

[@dedecampbell5879]

I'm torn between micro and Macro. Like I intern in a school now and I have a love hate with it but also I know it's not forever and I want to do macro/policy/event planning/initiatives and or organizing so its a conundrum. I also think about the $.

[@MindyourSociety]

If you have to try both to discover your niche, I say do it!

[@amazinggrace5984]

Loved this video! I hear back from msw admissions this month and I’m really wanting to go into macro:)

[@MindyourSociety]

Ahh thank you!

[@angelanmontijo]

I’m an LMSW currently in school social work and I find myself magnetically drawn to macro work. But I’m struggling to navigate this drive. Frankly, being in a director position at the district level does not interest me bc those roles are compromised by district expectations and agendas. What gets me going is the efforts of advocacy for equitable access to education, resources, etc for success. What would you recommend?

[@jazzlyntiara]

I feel like interdisciplinary teams are more the relationships you will build. Public health, community psychology, etc.

[@LaurenEBoone]

Hello, thank you so much for this video. I am a Macro Social worker and would love go connect! I need a macro community.

[@MindyourSociety]

Hello Lauren! Thank you for watching! Aye, happy to hear that! Are you on Instagram? Im on there under “mind your society”. If you give me a follow and send me a message after, I’d love to connect!

[@lemedeiros1979]

Rhode Island College has a macro program as a track in their MSW program, I wonder if you could get connected to have that connection?

[@jooondayz]

I really appreciate this content and info! I've been going back and forth between Macro and Micro-- I really value and long for those micro/therapeutic skills and working under my own terms, though I agree that macro needs more attention. Would be interested in talking to folks who have training in and utilize both!!

[@MindyourSociety]

Thank you! And yes that would be interesting. I started off in psychology, which is very direct and did direct SW during my first year of grad school. So I have a bit of experience in both, but I wouldn’t say I have extensive experience in direct.

[@MsMozel]

@@MindyourSociety Were you able to get experience in both fields? I am nervous to consider Macro because I feel like I would become overwhelmed with all the deadlines and pressure to create programs and policy. Is there a lot of support in Macro? Do you work in a team usually or do you find yourself doing things alone?

[@MindyourSociety]

@@MsMozel hello. I answer that question above. As far as support, it depends on the place you work. In macro, team work is very important and necessary.

[@whatsthetruth_review]

Yes 💗

[@julianah2754]

Thank you for your videos!!. I'm a lawyer looking at switching careers and starting my path to become a social worker, and I think macro social work would align with my law background. I would like to know what entry-level positions I can pursue to start my career on msw. :)

[@larayealderman200]

I enjoy your videos, they are very informative. I will be persueing Macro Social work. I am currently in the healthcare field and looking to transfer into working on a larger scale such as policy making, adveocy, Urban Planning.

[@michellereyes5828]

Hello, I am a Social Work student. I wish I could watch your video but there is no Closed Caption option for me to click on and use to watch your video. Can you please add Closed Caption to your video to make it accessible for everybody to watch it?

[@g.nimakos9339]

Are grad social work students required to facilitate individual and group counseling during their internship? Or is that only for mental health counselors and marriage & family therapists interns?

[@Mariah203]

Hi, I've been subscribed to your channel for quite a while. I got accepted into an MSW program and I start in the fall. I'm currently in the process of choosing a field placement and I was just wondering what did you do for your field placement? What kind of field placements do you suggest for people interested in macro social work? Do you think that it is a good idea to obtain micro social work/clinical social work experience while in school? Basically, I'm stuck between choosing a clinical social work field placement or macro? I want to do the macro field placement but I also think it might be valuable to get experience with micro social work for the sake of being well rounded. Mind you, I'll be in my first year so I'll be taking general social work courses and then in my second year I'll start coursework more specific to my specialization. Help!

[@povertyisapolicyfailure6130]

I really want to go into macro social work. But it’s been hard for me to get into it. I have tapped into my network to get into the work but have not had any luck. I have more micro experience and I have had trouble pitching how my skills can be transferable in that setting. I find myself stuck.

[@MindyourSociety]

I hear you! That can be tough. That's what i coach my mentees on.

[@pingalasunuwar1840]

Do we have to choose macro or micro while taking course? Or that I just field that we choose to work later? Your videos helped me a lot ❤️❤️ Thanks 🙏🏻

[@MPeoples239]

Is there macrowork for bsws?

[@RaShante-h7l]

I’m from Michigan and there’s not an option to not get a non clinical license. You have to do the 2 year supervision for an LCSW

[@MindyourSociety]

I don’t know about at the BSW level, but yep you can. I am actually prepping to do so. Their is a macro advanced level license you can get at the MSW level. Definitely call the MI department of licensing and regulatory affairs (LARA) and they can tell you more about that. Actually we don’t call it LCSW, we call both the clinical and the macro one LMSW. But you can take either the macro or clinical test after your supervision and get an LMSW, with a special focus on macro or clinical.

[@RaShante-h7l]

Okay, I think that’s what’s different in Michigan. In some other states you don’t need supervision for an LMSW (macro).

[@MindyourSociety]

@@RaShante-h7l exactly! It’s kind of weird in Michigan. Lol

[@lisah8438]

A volunteer coordinator is Macro right and a advocate?

[@vikrambal]

Is it difficult for someone who focused on Clinical Social Work during their Master's degree to then transition into Macro work?

[@adriandaniels1]

I think for me personally, I just don't have the brain for it, lol. I'm drawn more to the idea of one on one interaction. Sigh, curses to my introversion.

[@Ash-hb7rw]

Do you have a Facebook group for macro workers to network and discuss this area? I'm interested in the club. 🙋🏾‍♀️#I'mamacrosocialworker

[@MindyourSociety]

No I don’t at this stage. It takes a lot lot of time to manage Facebook groups. Maybe in the future!

[@DaMediaGuyProductions]

Where do you find Macro Social Work Jobs?

[@chardaehanks5953]

is it too late if uve already focused on micro with ur msw and are going to get a clinical license?

[@samigreenberg6632]

No. I have my MSW from a clinical school and have an LC and work primarily in the meso/macro space. These are transferrable skills. You got this!

[@reohhom5778]

I'm interested in the macro side, but I don't know how to get my foot in the door without any prior experience and with an unrelated bachelor's degree. Do you have any tips?

[@nelliajanellia]

Did you do macro in school?

[@MindyourSociety]

Yes, I’m my MSW track I focused on macro

[@lalaw87]

I want to work in Macro social work I feel that I thrive in that area of social work. Do you have Instagram or a way to reach out to you.