Alex Ukanwa - Master of Social Work (Professional)
The Master of Social Work (Professional) provided Alex with bi-cultural knowledge and international exposure, as well as an insight into Aotearoa’s social work practices.
“While working as a residential youth worker, I decided to complete further study to help me secure a permanent case leader role.
“I chose the Master of Social Work (Professional) at the University of Auckland for two reasons: the University is internationally known for its academic ranking, and it fit with my specific learning goals. I was already accustomed to the field of social work from my undergraduate studies, youth worker role, and life experiences both in the United States and Romania. The programme offered me bi-cultural knowledge and international exposure, as well as an insight into Aotearoa’s way of social work practices.
The best things about the programme were the students, the
amazing lecturers whom I can always count on for continuous guidance, and fact that I was able to go on practicums that I was really interested in.
“I love being a case leader because I work with Aotearoa’s precious tamariki, and they are a gift and a privilege to work for. I only get to know them for a limited time, which means it’s so important to do it right the first time, and to do it with aroha, mana-enhancing practice.
“While I was studying, I became a mother myself. Giving birth and becoming that most important person in the world for this brand-new little being, has only increased my desire to do the best I can do for all my cases. I could not imagine anything else.”