Personal/Professional Goals Initially, I was interested in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Walden University, later meeting a Walden representative, after having the privilege of being chosen from Georgia State University (GSU) faculty will participate in the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) in Denver, Colorado 2015. My interest was heightened after researching the program curriculum for "Advanced Clinical Practice" which instructs in the development of therapeutic skills. Additionally, since I will soon graduate from GSU in Spring 2016 with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), my eligibility to participate in Advanced Standing is greater than before; Walden offers this option. Most importantly, Walden University is CSWE accredited. After obtaining my degree, I would like to advance my career in the role of a mental health provider with the purpose of providing services that will improve the client's psychological, physical and social functioning, with a commitment to conceiving a private practice once licensed and acquired further experience in the field. I was influenced to become a social worker as it gives me the opportunity to offer theory-based methods, coupled with hope, resources, alternatives and more to the underserved. I immediately understood that to be affective in practice I had to become expert in my craft. Further explaining, particularly as an affiliate of clergy, the countless opportunities to provide counseling to those in need of an advocate, resources, hope and behavioral modification, is my reality; this list is not exhaustive. Often the problems were multiple, but my job was unique. It was critical to operate from a position of strength in order to safeguard... middle of paper... What interests me about Walden is that it was highly recommended by Georgia State University faculty members in addition to its' alumni. Additionally, I was intrigued by its findings which will in turn prepare me for legal and ethical standards, advocacy, and evidence-based research, to name a few. Finally, I was fascinated by the longevity of the forty-five year university preparing students for the helping professions, as well as being CSWE accredited. I mostly chose online courses to fit my work schedule since I am a non-traditional student. I am very familiar and experienced with taking online courses. Although challenging, I have been very successful in my attempts over the years. I am very disciplined and focused with the ability to complete various assigned tasks. For this reason, I am ready to enter the online world at Walden University.