You could, theoretically, decide not to participate in the rich and diverse student life here at the School of Social Work. In fact, you could simply limit your engagement to just going to class and field placement, only interacting with the people you encounter in those domains. However, why would a brilliant and dynamic person such as you make that decision? Why would you not want a thick and full experience? You most certainly pay for one regardless if you actually get it. Time, distance, workload, and personal obligations: these factors should not hold you back or keep you from joining any of the student groups.

When you enter the school and the profession, you will automatically and unavoidable become part of groups. Task Groups. Social Groups. Therapy Groups. Or maybe just the group for disgruntled, broke and tired social work students, which I am a member of. As you already know, the group experience is a reciprocal, interdependent, and interactive process. You get and give; teach and learn; speak and listen; support and receive upliftment. Goals are identified, pursued, and accomplished. Sound inviting? Well, it should. I am undoubtedly inviting you to not only partake of but to lead.

Do not just live on the sidelines or in the margins; fill the page with drama, romance, adventure, and mystery. Certainly, I am not guaranteeing that any of the aforementioned will occur. However, the possibility is no less there depending on your willingness, reaction, perception, and involvement. When you leave and look back, perhaps a melodramatic 80’s song will mysteriously start playing and remind you of all that you gave, received, and created in your group experience.