“SOCIAL SERVICE”

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

I would like to introduce myself as Applicant Name, a permanent resident ….., Nepal, born on DOB AD. I am an energetic, optimistic, career-oriented boy, being very much enthusiastic about the developmental sector and social happenings. Talking about my family, I have a family of five members: My father Mr.Parents Name, my step-mother ….. …and myself. My parents made sure that I get updated with societal issues from a minimum age. I grew up going to various organizational events which always made me curious about social events and happenings which at present have helped me choose a career in the social sector. Having a keen interest in the Social and Development sector, I have decided to do my Graduate Certificate of Human Services leading to the Master of Social Work Qualifying program at UNIVERSITY NAME (University Name) for May intake, 2021.

 

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND AND LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

As far as my academics are concerned, I have completed my School Leaving Certificate (SLC) from South…, Nepal in the year 2011 with 80.13%, and I completed my Intermediate level from Nobel Academy in the year 2013 where I scored 58.70%. I did my bachelor’s level studies in Bachelor of Social Work from College, affiliated to Tribhuvan University in the year 2018 with 64.21%. I did have gaps of two years between my intermediate and bachelor’s level and at that gap time, I was a football instructor at College. With the vision of going abroad for further studies, I took the PTE examination on 25 November 2019 and secured an overall band score of 59 (Listening: – 60 Reading: – 58, Writing: – 62 and Speaking: – 58).

 

GAP EXPLANATION

Along with full dedication to my studies, I always had a keen interest in games, especially football. That was the reason that before entering the stream of humanities and social sciences: Bachelor of Social Work, I had gathered the experience of working as a football trainer in the same college where I pursued my Bachelor’s program. I had worked as a football trainer at College,, Kathmandu, Nepal between 28th November 2013 till 1st December 2015. After gaining about two years of experience, I realized that it was time to upgrade my education and enrolled in a Bachelor of Social Work. I completed my bachelor’s program in 2018 AD. Upon graduating from College my thinking was broadened and my perspective on life became much more vibrant and positive and to further upgrade my education, I joined College as a Officer and worked there for a year starting from 10th October 2018 to 12th October 2019. Along with that in order to gain practical exposure and enhance the learnings of my bachelor’s degree, I worked as a volunteer for a tenure of 1 year in Child Haven International Canada/ Nepal in partnership with a local NGO, ……, located at ., Jorpati Kathmandu, Nepal from 10th October 2018 till 11th October 2019. However, due to my limited time since I was involved with my previous college ….. as a Marketing Officer, I used to work with this organization twice a week only which was Saturday and Sunday. Despite the short period, working with this organization turned out to be very fruitful for grooming my workaholic nature. I was about to apply to Australia 2019 and with all preparation, I had received the offer letter from University Name on 12 May 2020. But unfortunately Covid-19 pandemic happened and I had to defer my application process. Now after receiving another confirmation letter for the same course, I’m here continuing my postponed visa application process.

 

WHY NOT NEPAL?

Before deciding to study overseas, I had searched for colleges/universities in Nepal, but I found very few colleges in Nepal with minimal resources and faculties. Universities of Nepal only offer master courses in Rural Development, Planning and Gender Studies, International Relations, History, Human and Natural Resources Studies, and so on. In case of Social Work, Tribhuvan University under some colleges provides this course. I consulted with other Social Work students in Nepal to know about the course but unfortunately, almost all of them recommended me not to study in Nepal for the system here is doomed by the unmanaged university system, delayed result, unpractical and out-dated course along with the lack of qualified instructors. Upon hearing such comments from senior students I surrendered my idea of studying in Nepal and began to look for abroad options. The colleges in Nepal still use the traditional method of teaching. The syllabus is old and not updated and technology is still the same. The fact is that Nepal doesn’t have a practical way of teaching. In addition to this, the academic credential from Nepalese institutions is not well appreciated at the global level. So the main reason for me to study abroad is the quality education and the opportunities to gain quality education and the market demand that has been seeking many students including me abroad.

 

WHY AUSTRALIA? WHY NOT OTHER COUNTRIES?

Australia has a well-established international sector with over 1200 education providers delivering high-quality education to international students. Australia has seven of the top 100 universities in the world! In fact, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions, Australia sits above the likes of Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan, ranking eighth in the universities 2012 U21 Ranking of National Higher Education Systems. Australia has produced 15 Nobel Prize Laureates and every day over 1 billion people around the world rely on Australian discoveries and Innovations. The Australian government has demonstrated its liberality towards international students by declaring the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 which builds up administrative necessities and standards for prime affirmation of instruction and preparing foundations offering courses to international students. Similarly, the Australian government also has an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy which guarantees the medical service that the students may need during the study period in Australia. Likewise, the provision of Tuition Protection Service (TPS) is another captivating factor ensuring the security of student tuition throughout the study period. The institutions are liable to refund the fees to the foreign students if they are not able to deliver the desired course that the students are enrolled in. The Department of Education and Training is responsible for the commonwealth register of institutions and courses for overseas students (CRICOS). 

 

WHY NOT OTHER COUNTRIES:

I did intensive research of different renowned countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., and Canada, etc. I didn’t prefer the U.K because of the high living cost, and adverse climate during winter. Besides, the present UK has its internal problem related to BREXIT so the overall environment is not congenial for international students like me. I found that the universities of the USA require lengthy tests like GRE, GMAT, SAT, etc. It is challenging to get a scholarship in the colleges of the USA, and the tuition fee is not affordable which discouraged me fromchoosing the U.S.A. Also, Australia is livable than the USA as far as security is concerned. In the case of Canada, because of the long harsh chilling winter and scorching summer, I feel like it will be hard for me to adjust to such an environment. Also, the Canadian Visa process takes a longerperiod, has fewer intakes as compared to Australia and annual living expenses are comparatively higher. Though it offers a high standard of lifestyle, high living expenses make it difficult for Internationalstudents to survive there. Similarly, I preferred Australia over it.

 

WHY SYDNEY?

Five of the largest universities are based in Sydney. Sydney’s universities are recognized internationally for academic research. In terms of world rankings, 4 (out of 5) of Sydney’s universities are in Australia’s top 10. It is a multi-cultural society with a residential population of many nationalities and ethnic groups speaking more than 100 languages. Sydney has an adaptable climate and very good weather conditions, which is equally important for the students to have a good learning environment. University campuses are mostly in inner-city areas, giving access to plenty of culture and entertainment without having to travel far. Career opportunities in Sydney are greater than anywhere else in Australia. Moreover, the compliant climate and friendly environment will make it easier for me to adjust during my stay in Australia.

 

ACCOMMODATION DETAILS:

Regarding my proposed living arrangements, I am willing to reside with one of my close friends, ……who is currently pursuing…… He is living in unit . Sydney, Australia and I am planning to stay in his residence on a sharing and distance between the …… and UNIVERSITY NAME Campus is approximately 31 minutes by car and 37 minutes by train. Moreover, I am well known regarding my annual living expenses as well. It would cost approximately AUD$ 250-300 per week while residing with him.

 

WHY UNIVERSITY NAME (UNIVERSITY NAME)

I had gathered a list of all universities and colleges providing the best social work degree in Sydney specifically; University of Sydney, Australian Catholic University, Western Sydney University, and UNIVERSITY NAME (University Name). I found out that UNIVERSITY NAME is a leading college of applied psychology education and has been offering specialist courses in counseling, psychology, social work, and youth work and has had an educational history of more than 30 years being established in 1983.

Comparison of different education provider along with course, tuition fee, and my review are explored in the table below:

S.N Name of College Course Fee Duration in week Review
1 The University of Melbourne Master of Social Work $AU 82,311 104 Expensive fee
2 Flinders University Master of Social Work $AU 60,077 104 Not so good student review
3 James Cook University Master of Social Work (Professional Qualifying) $AU 62,016 104 The location was not favorable for me and the fee was also too expensive
4 The University of Queensland Master of Social Work Studies $AU 43,999 78 The course was not as per my interest
5 University Name Master of Social Work (Qualifying) $AU 47,440 104 Desired curriculum, sound location, affordable fee, and good student review.

 

UNIVERSITY NAME is a registered higher education provider and a nationally registered training organization which was the fact that captivated me to join it. I thought it would be a great opportunity to study in a college run by registered international trainers who are experts and specialists in their fields. Many Australian universities and colleges offer a wide range of courses related to social work but UNIVERSITY NAME when compared to other universities and colleges seems suitable and feasible for my further studies. The course structure in comparison is kind of different too. As per my research, I found that the course for social work in UNIVERSITY NAME has a very effective and practical course structure, to be specific: Social Work, Theory and Practices: Critical Theory and skills, individual and families, group teamwork and organizational learning, and so forth are the core subjects which directly relates to the aim I want to achieve of being a successful social worker. UNIVERSITY NAME provides a generous amount of work experience placements, internships, and volunteering opportunities in the course itself via field education 1 and field education 2 which will help students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical life. The campus is also located in the city area because of which travel to any student won’t be a problem. Hence, I am convinced that UNIVERSITY NAME is the right place to further pursue my academic career.

 

WHY MASTERS IN SOCIAL WORK?

Being born in traditional Nepali culture, I was exposed to public welfare since childhood and the same naïve interest later grew as a career interest. Apart from career motivations, Social Workers are trusted professionals who can support, guide, and assist individuals, families, and communities during times to need. Social work is a passion, a drive to help others and to make a positive lasting impact on the wellbeing of others. The successful completion of a degree in any social work subject will help me demonstrate research skills, analytical ability, a flexible and adaptable approach to learning, critical evaluation, the ability to work to deadlines, creativity, team-working, logical thinking, self-organization, and communication skills. Social is all about understanding and striving to improve the lives of people in society. Social workers listen to people’s needs, from young children to people struggling with addictions, and help them to cope and improve their happiness. I am very optimistic that this education will help me make my dreams come true by giving me the right exposure, knowledge, and skills. I am very hopeful of making use of an internationally well-recognized degree in a very good manner especially when I return to Nepal to make a professional contribution in the field of Social work in an effective way.

 

UNDERSTANDING OF COURSE

Before joining Masters in Social Work I will be joining the Graduate Certificate of Human Services which is a six months program after that I will join the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) offered by University Name is a Two years full-time or part-time equivalent Maximum duration: 6 years. It has 12 units (96 credit points) including 2 triple field education units. For the full-time student, the study load will be 2 or 3 units per trimester and 1 or 2 units per trimester for a part-time student. As mentioned on the university website the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) includes two placements totaling 1,000 hours.

Course structure

YEAR 1  
Units Credit Point
SWSP6003 Becoming a Social Worker – Social Policy and Practice Context 6
SWSP6013 Social Work Theory and Practice (Critical Theories and Skills) 6
SWAP 6163 Professional Practice 6
 SWAP 6033 Social Work Theory and Practice (Individuals and Families) 6
SW6143 Public Policy and Civil Society 6
SWSP6053 Field Education 1 18

 

YEAR 2  
Units Credit Point
SWAP 6123 Research Methods 6
SWAP 6153 Indigenous Social Work 6
SWSP6043 Social Work Theory and Practice (Groups Teams and Organizational Learning) 6
SWSP6073 Social Work Theory and Practice (Community and Advocacy) 6
Plus one (1) elective 6
SWSP6103 Field Education 2 18

 

CAREER FUTURE PLANS

After the completion of my Masters in Social Work, I want to gain experience through the post-study work (PSW) which is given to every international student legally by the government of Australia. Throughout my period, I believe I’ll gain a lot of experience in my social work field. Since, Nepal is a developing country, lots of developmental agencies have been intervening, the career path in the social sector is flourishing each increasingly day. With this degree, I will be able to venture into multiple fields ranging from medicine, psychiatric social work, Human Resource Management, criminology to correctional administration, NGOs, and many welfare communities. Many international bodies are looking forward to helping Nepal. Therefore, there will be an ample amount of demand for the skills that I have applied to study in Australia. I see a bright future here in Nepal rather than the opportunities available abroad. I expect to have an extensive career in this field and contribute to society. Since my childhood, I have been into social services and my passion is increasing day by day. Therefore, I have a keen vision to return to my home country Nepal and make the optimum use of my abilities, education, experience, and skill. The master of social work equips me for managerial roles across a broad spectrum of industries in the public and private sectors. I will get jobs in a professional social work position in hospitals, community health care, child protection, justice, local government, social research, and many more. After the completion of my master’s degree, I want to contribute to the humanitarian needs of society to bring sustainable development to my homeland. Well equipped with Australian Masters in Social Work (Qualifying) degree, I will be able to work in popular designations like Social Work Teacher, Social and Community Service Manager, Child, and Family Social Worker, Mental Health Social Worker, Hospital Social Worker, Therapist, Rehabilitation Social Worker and many more. Under these job designations, initially, I can expect the monthly salary of NPR 1,00,000 to 1,50,000 per month excluding travel and accommodation expenses if traveling out of the valley. Moreover, within a couple of years after gaining many skills and expertise in this field, I can be promoted to positions like Professional Counselor, Case Worker with a minimum monthly salary ranging from NPR 2,00,000 and over in my home country Nepal.

 

MOTIVATION TO RETURN NEPAL

Now regarding my motivation to return to Nepal, I would like to say that when I have a good opportunity for a social worker career in Nepal my self-esteem will never let me stay as a struggler and second class citizen in a foreign land. As I have mentioned earlier, I will be able to make a good income and return my investments in abroad education after being employed as a professional social worker in National or International agencies. Apart from the better career opportunity in Nepal, I need to return to my country as my family resides here. My family has been the source of motivation, encouragement, and support, both emotionally and financially throughout my study so I owe them everything I have and will have. The most important thing in my life is to ensure my parents live well. I strongly believe that I must make sure that I take care of my parents as they have taken care of me all my life. Similarly being a responsible hire of family, I need to look after my parental property, house land, and other assets in Nepal. Also, I will miss all the celebrations, gatherings, and festivals during my stay in Australia. The greatest satisfaction is being with family and friends. My only motive to go abroad is to gain knowledge, skill, and experience in a reputed university. Upon completing my master’s degree, I would have nothing to pursue in Australia so I will surely return to Nepal for good.

 

IMMIGRATION HISTORY

Regarding my previous immigration history, I had traveled to Bali, Indonesia in August 2018 AD. My travel to Indonesia was solely a holiday break of a week from 3rd August 2018 till 09th August 2018 AD. Afterward, I haven’t applied for any visas or taken an overseas journey. Hence, I would like to assure you that this is the first time that I am applying for a student visa overseas, Australia for my Master’s Program with pure intention to study in Australia.

 

FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS

My sponsors are aware of my tuition fees, living cost, travel expenses, and other additional expenses, and are ready to fully sponsor me for the entire duration of my study in Australia. Below is the detail of my sponsor’s income:

S.N Name of Sponsor Source of income Annual Income(NRS)
1. Mr. (Father) Income from Salary 480,000.00
2. Mrs. (Mother) Income from Service 360,000.00
3. Mr. (Step-brother) Income from Service 1,009,914.6
4. Mr (Father) Income from Land lease 300,000.00
  Total  

NRS. 2,149,914.6

AUD 24669.12

 

The other verified document of my financial arrangements including Bank Balance statements, Income Source statements, property valuation, and other required docs are attached along with the application.

 

UNDERSTANDING OF VISA OBLIGATIONS

I am well aware of the fact that as an international student I should respect and comply with Australian law throughout my study period in Australia. Here are some of the obligations for students under higher education visa subclass 500 as mentioned below:

  • Need to maintain a minimum of 80% of attendance throughout my course duration.
  • Must not do plagiarism while doing assignments and requirements.
  • Need to have OSHC for the duration of my stay in Australia.
  • Should pay my fee before the due date.
  • Must inform the education provider and DHA within 7 days if contact details and/or address are changed.
  • Need to achieve satisfactory academic performance.
  • Not allowed to work more than 40 hours per fortnight.

 

Yours sincerely,

Applicant Name

 

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