Spar Wong - Master of Social Work

“I was also fortunate to receive a summer research scholarship from the Faculty of Education and Social Work. Recognising the pivotal role of research in shaping social work practices, I resolved to pursue a Master of Social Work to deepen my understanding and contribute meaningfully to the profession in Aotearoa.”

For Spar, the Master of Social Work programme had many highlights including exceptional guidance from his supervisor, a valuable writing retreat, and robust school, faculty, and university support.

“There were two standout moments for me, the first one was successfully publishing an article in a leading social work journal in Aotearoa during my studies - an achievement considering the rigorous publication process. The other was serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, this allowed me to develop teaching, course design, tutoring, and student support skills, enhancing my academic journey.”

There are often challenges that arise when undertaking such intense study, for Spar one significant challenge was the sense of isolation he felt due to the solitary nature of working on individual projects.

“However, I was fortunate that the school established a vibrant research community, offering regular workshops and networking events tailored for postgraduate research students. These opportunities helped alleviate feelings of loneliness and provided a supportive environment where I could connect with peers, share experiences, and navigate the research journey together.

“I had the privilege of working with an exceptional supervisor, Dr Laura Chubb, whose guidance was instrumental in every phase of my research journey. From assisting with research topic approval and ethics applications to supporting data collection, analysis, and writing, Dr Chubb’s unwavering encouragement propelled me to aim higher and achieve more.

“Her belief in the potential impact of my project on social work practice in Aotearoa inspired me to strive for excellence. Dr Chubb generously offered her support and expert guidance in co-publishing a journal article, further enriching my academic experience.

“Furthermore, I am grateful for the invaluable support from the community organisations and participants who contributed to my research data. Their willingness to share their experiences and perspectives was crucial in shaping the findings of my study.”

Looking back, Spar wishes he had realised the importance of patience and time management before starting his masters journey.

“Research is a meticulous process, and allowing ample time for critical thinking and strategic planning is essential for producing high-quality work. I would also recommend utilising reference management software, available through the university IT support, to efficiently organise readings and references, which would have facilitated a smoother research experience.”

While pursuing a PhD remains a possibility for Spar’s future, he is currently focused on gaining further experience in various levels of social work practice.

“Returning to the field will allow me to deepen my understanding and refine my skills, ultimately contributing to my professional growth and effectiveness as a social worker.”

Spar’s advice for those considering pursuing a Master of Social work is to find a research topic that genuinely interests you and brings you joy to explore.

“Build and maintain good relationships with your supervisor(s) and the school, which can open doors to invaluable opportunities and resources throughout your academic and professional journey.

“Embrace the diverse perspectives and insights the programme offers, as it will enrich your understanding and broaden your horizons. Finally, stay connected with peers and professional networks to exchange ideas and share experiences.”