March 2008 Newsletter
Romania Study Abroad 2007: Child Welfare in Hungary and Romania: Journal entries and photo gallery
"I felt that the trip was what development work is about. You go somewhere, and you try to find out what's going on and what people need, and then you try to create some movement and change. You don't have a map or a guide. You're often uncomfortable and tired and confused but exhilarated all the same. It was a good reminder in being alive and challenging myself that I don't ever plan to forget anytime soon. I'd recommend it for any social worker interested in the world beyond their own back yard." -Jessica Houghton
"I was pleased to meet the variety of students on the trip and to learn about their different specialties and agency practices. It is invaluable for individuals who are embarking on a new profession, as we are, to have the opportunity to network, bond and learn from each other. Before we left, I did not realize how much I would learn about myself as an individual or as part of a group dynamic. I cannot say strongly enough how impressed I was with the overall learning experience. I feel surprised at how much I learned about myself, my coping mechanisms for stress and even my own interest in helping others. I applaud Rutgers for taking the chance with this study abroad program and hope there is many more opportunities for students to enrich themselves through similar programs, like this one, in the future." -Sharon Buck
"I was profoundly impressed with the many programs that we visited, and with the social workers we met. In both countries they were extremely dedicated, diligent, and creative. They have to be, and they are up to the challenge." -Mary Kay Jou
"This trip was not only an educational experience but also a time to meet new people, eat some wonderful food, see the beautiful sights of Hungary and Romania and lastly laugh until my sides hurt. I certainly was not disappointed! I have had the opportunity to travel abroad but never felt immersed in the culture, the traditions, and the everyday life of the countries I visited. This trip allowed me to be a participant instead of an observer. I was inspired by the wonderful people I met, the places I visited, and the feeling of pride I felt as a social worker." -Stephanie Kramer
"Experiencing social work in an international context was fascinating and thought provoking. As a participant on this trip, an unexpected benefit was the opportunity to learn from other members of the group. Individual experience and strengths contributed to the discussions and activities we undertook, and in the context of the unfamiliar environment helped me better process what we were experiencing. As a future social worker, this also highlighted the value of mutual respect and team-work in finding solutions to the complex issues frequently associated with social work. A great experience!" -Susan Head
