Studying Bachelor’s degree in Social Services gives you a strong foundation in client work

Turku University of Applied Sciences offers a wide range of opportunities for people working in the social sector. Interest in helping people and social issues inspired social work student Anna Haapakummi to apply for the studies.

Anna Haapakumpu wanted a career where she could work with different people and promote their well-being.

Text and photos by Minna Salakari

“After finishing high school, I spent some time looking for myself and reflecting on my interests. It was then that I realised that I wanted a career where I could work with different people and contribute to their well-being. I was also attracted by the wide range of opportunities for employment and further education,” says Anna Haapakumpu, a social work student.

Working life skills are built during your studies

The three-and-a-half-year degree in Social Services provides a comprehensive combination of theory and practice, preparing students for the world of work. Haapakumpu has learned many skills that are essential in the workplace, such as client work methods and legislation, as well as interpersonal and counselling skills.

Practical experience makes theoretical knowledge more concrete and helps you understand how what you learn will play out in the world of work. Haapakumpu says that certain courses have been particularly interesting:

“I am only about halfway through my studies, but the child protection client-specific courses I am currently taking are fascinating, and I have discovered something new about child protection work.”

Combining studies and leisure requires planning

Professional growth occurs as you progress through your education, and the Social Services studies have given you a broad range of knowledge and skills to deal with a variety of clients and people.

I feel that I have already learned to act professionally and ethically even in difficult situations.

The group atmosphere is also an important part of the learning experience. When the learning community is supportive and collaborative, and when fellow students support and help each other when needed, the atmosphere feels trustworthy.

Haapakumpu says that during her studies she has also faced challenges, the biggest of which have been time management and balancing school and leisure.

“It hasn’t always been easy to combine my studies and my life, but I’m constantly trying to plan my schedule better and prioritise things. I have also realised that rest and leisure are just as important as studying. You need to give your mind a breather now and then to feel better.”

Traineeships open doors to working life

Studying Social Services offers the opportunity to follow a wide range of careers. The training can lead to employment in areas such as child protection, youth and family work, mental health and substance abuse work and crisis work.

The studies provide a comprehensive understanding of social work and its requirements. Combining theory and practice through internships prepares you to meet the challenges of working life. Internships cannot be over-praised as they provide such a concrete insight into the work of the sector.

The transition to the labour market does not scare Haapakumpu, as her education has prepared her well for the challenges of working life. Her future plans are still open, but the direction is clear:

“I’m a bit of a wind vane and interested in many things. At the moment I would like to work with children and families, for example in child protection or family work. I want to gain experience working with different client groups and supporting people in different life situations.”