PNW Social Work Program Mission Statement
The program’s purpose is to provide an enriching environment in which life-long learning is established and the acquisition of competence in knowledge, values, skills, and cognitive and affective processes of generalist practice social work will be developed to promote individual and community well-being as Purdue University Northwest BASW graduates advocate and enhance the quality of life for individuals in their communities.
Mission
To prepare competent, professional, and ethical generalist social workers who are committed to anti-oppressive social work practice by advocating for social, economic, and environmental justice for all vulnerable populations.
Vision
Guided by a liberal arts-based education and cohesive curriculum, the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work Program at Purdue University Northwest operates within the land-grant tradition of democracy, inclusiveness, and accessibility. All members of the Social Work Program and those served are valued and respected as we celebrate diversity in background, culture and frame of reference.
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The program provides an environment in which the value of life-long learning is rooted and dedicated to the development and acquisition of competence with regard to knowledge, values, skills and cognitive and affective processes.
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The program values critical thinking and intellectual curiosity that is satisfied through scientific inquiry in the acquisition of evidence-based practices within the ecological framework.
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The program values ethical practice and insists students, faculty, and staff act with honesty and integrity as they adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct.
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The faculty and students enhance the quality of lives of citizens by applying professional knowledge and leadership through cooperative partnerships with schools, neighborhoods, social service agencies, other institutions, and communities. This quality of life enhancement is intended to be aimed locally, nationally, and globally.

Updated personal statement
Ihave had time to think about my life and what i really want to do and the type of person i want to be. My personal goal for being in social work i to help individuals try to become better versions of themselves by using the competencies i learned and the mission statement that social workers should uphold. Social work extends the many different opportunity to combine advocacy, direct support, and systemic change—values that align closely with both my personal strengths and professional goals.
Resume
shavonne carson
1321 W 90th Pl Apt 203, Merrillville, IN 46410 · 219-806-0813
Work Experience
9/2023 – Present
Teacher assistant-Happy Days ChildCare Center
Direct and oversee programming for infants and children.
6/2020 – 9/2023
Camp Counselor and KidZone Worker, Hammond YMCA
Develop plans for recreational and educational activities during summer months.
Build and maintain professional relationships with staff and parents.
Volunteer Experience
8/2017 – present
Youth Worker, Hope Christian Church
Developing/Implement curriculum for children’s Sunday School classes.
Supervise Vacation Bible School Program
Participate in community service projects, food pantry, soup kitchen, and tutoring.
6/2019 – 8/2019
Camp counselor, Christian Church, Indiana Disciples of christ
Camp counselor, Christian Church, Indiana Disciples of christ
1/25-PRESENT
Internship- lake county Juvenile Justice system
Assisted in developing and implementing rehabilitation programs for at-risk youth.
Observed and supported case management and counseling sessions, ensuring effective intervention strategies.
Maintained detailed records of juveniles' progress and behavior, contributing to case evaluations.
Education
Expected May 2026
b.s. Purdue university Northwest
Pursuing degree in Social Work
June 2020
H.S. Diploma, Merrillville High school
Skills
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Task oriented
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Excellent communication skills
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Works well with others
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Strong Technology Skills
Work Experience
9/2023 – Present
Teacher assistant-Happy Days ChildCare Center
Direct and oversee programming for infants and children.
6/2020 – 9/2023
Camp Counselor and KidZone Worker, Hammond YMCA
Develop plans for recreational and educational activities during summer months.
Build and maintain professional relationships with staff and parents.
Volunteer Experience
8/2017 – present
Youth Worker, Hope Christian Church
Developing/Implement curriculum for children’s Sunday School classes.
Supervise Vacation Bible School Program
Participate in community service projects, food pantry, soup kitchen, and tutoring.
6/2019 – 8/2019
Camp counselor, Christian Church, Indiana Disciples of christ
Camp counselor, Christian Church, Indiana Disciples of christ
1/25-PRESENT
internship- lake county Juvenile Justice system
Assisted in developing and implementing rehabilitation programs for at-risk youth.
Observed and supported case management and counseling sessions, ensuring effective intervention strategies.
Maintained detailed records of juveniles' progress and behavior, contributing to case evaluations.
Education
Expected May 2026
b.s. Purdue university Northwest
Pursuing degree in Social Work
June 2020
H.S. Diploma, Merrillville High school
Skills
-
Task oriented
-
Excellent communication skills
-
Works well with others
-
Strong Technology Skills
Program Goals
The PNW Social Work Program will develop knowledge, skills, and cognitive/affective processes based on social work values and ethics to guide professional practice in graduates.
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The PNW Social Work Program will integrate knowledge of culturally competent practice skills to promote understanding, sensitivity, economic, and social justice for marginalized and oppressed client systems through its cohesive curriculum.
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The PNW Social Work Program will develop policy practice skills to create and influence change.
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The PNW Social Work Program will develop a foundation of research methods to understand existing practice models and develop new models of professional intervention based on research.
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