Molly Kennefick
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Major: Family Social Science
Additional education undertaken after graduation:
Masters of Social Work, U of MN, beginning fall 2007l
Organization: CornerHouse
My U of MN mentor had recommended I explore internship and job opportunities at CornerHouse. A couple months before graduation, I saw an ad in the Star Tribune Sunday job section and applied.
Coordinate with Multi-Disciplinary Team and write reports on children and developmentally delayed adults scheduled for forensic interviews regarding abuse allegations; Videotape scheduled forensic interviews; Report monthly agency statistics; Assist physicians during forensic non-acute medical exams; Implement large-scale National Children's Alliance online client data entry system; Assist supervisory team on hiring process of a new employees; Compile agency statistics monthly, quarterly, yearly; Daily office duties (photocopying, mailings, answering phones, etc)
The most helpful preparation for my current career was my previous jobs and volunteer experience. These few experiences gave me a small taste of what the field is like and how the systems work together. Working and volunteering in the field was a great way to network, as it seemed like a small world once I got into the field. These experiences also taught me what I'm not interested in pursing.
I'm not sure this is specific to the field of social services, but inevitably it seems like knowledge is not based on academic accomplishments. Much of the wisdom, knowledge, and great work accomplished in this field ties back to a person's experience. I know many people in this field that are book smart, with many letters after their name, but some of the best social service providers I have met are those with experience and a passion for the field. What surprised me most is how well people in the field know others in this field. It seems like such a small world that people who have been in the field forever know people in many other organizations and governmental agencies.
I would recommend utilizing the services available at the St. Paul Campus Career Center. Update and revise your resume and have many eyes look at it. It is also very important to have a variety of experiences on your resume, no matter how long ago they were or where they were located. Try a variety of things to test what your interests are. I used this tactic as a deduction method. I didn't know specifically what I wanted to do, but quickly figured out what I did NOT want to do! Much of what a person does might not directly equate to his/her field, but the lessons learned and the people met are valuable to the overall job experience and search. I would also recommend searching early and not getting discouraged. I applied to many places I knew I wouldn't get accepted to just for practice. I also learned not to take rejection too personally. Use it as a learning experience and continue hunting!