Describe the agency; include the type of agency, where the agency is located and if it is easily accessible by transportation. What is the mission statement of the agency? Who do they serve?
Impressions to consider:
• How inviting is this agency?
• What is the physical ambience?
• Is the staff friendly or distant?
• How would you feel if you were seeking services in this agency and would it be different as an employee working at the agency?
Analysis: It is at this point you should consider the questions you would like to ask a social worker. Questions to consider:
• Who is the social worker and where did she get her training?
• Was the social worker always interested in this type of work with this population of people?
• How is the agency to work for?
• Do they find the work fulfilling?
• Is there anything about the work that could be upsetting or disappointing?
• Do they have any advice to someone who is considering a career in social work?