This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Knowledge & Support Community

Hello!



I'm 22 years old, and if you've seen my Intro post you know I've been having a tough time lately. I was thinking today, going through the replies I'd gotten and talking to my mom earlier, that it might be a good idea for me to change my career choice. I graduated from college in May for Social Psychology, so I could become a social worker... turns out a lot of people don't want to hire a 22 year old with no experience what-so-ever... didn't expect that.



Are there any careers for people that have been Caregivers to those with MS? Or perhaps counselors for families? I'd like to know, because I think maybe I'd be alright at it. I would happily go back to school if that's what it meant. I would happily go through training and whatever else I needed. I've been taking care of my mom since I was 10, I know how and where to give the shots, I know ALL of the medicines she takes and MOST of the side effects they are known to cause [same with my dad, because I am the In Case of Emergency for everyone in my family] and I know how to best handle a lot of various situations... not all, and obviously I do need to work on some of my own issues with that sort of thing too but...



Well...
Maybe this would be worth looking into? I don't know if they have anything out there for MS Counselors or anything like that, but I'd certainly think I might be able to make a good career out of it. Turn a negative into a positive in so many ways...



Hm...

MissMiji – I know NOTHING about Social Psychology or social work. I do think your background and experience with your parents would uniquely prepare you for working with the families and caregivers of people with MS. You could bring insight to the situation that someone with only "book learning" would not have. Undoubtedly, you would need further education and preparation.

I think you would find the best direction for this career choice or change from your college department advisor or your school's Career Planning office or Guidance/Counseling Office. You might even arrange an interview with a professional who provides such social services in your community – learn what his education and preparation for the job were. Inquire at the local National MS Society office; or from a neurologist's office (where MS patients are treated) or from the social worker at a nearby hospital.

I think it would be worth looking into.

All the best to you.