We chatted to three final year BSc (Hons) Social Work and Applied Social Studies students to ask them about their time on the course, and hear about the skills they’ve gained, their placement experiences and campus life.

Q: Tell us why you chose to study social work, and why at Bath?

Emilia: I knew I wanted to go to university but wasn’t sure what to study. After taking a couple of years out and studying social sciences at the Open University, I realised I wanted something more applied, focused on practice, society, and social justice. Social Work and Applied Social Studies at Bath is career-focused and covers mental health, sociology, and psychology, which are all areas I'm interested in.

Abby: I initially studied finance, economics, and accountancy at college but soon realised it was not for me! I wanted a career working with people, so I switched to an A-level in criminology, psychology, and sociology. I really enjoyed these subjects and then found the course at Bath, with its integrated placements and practical work, was the right choice for my next move.

Sopph: I had a lot of social work involvement in my own childhood and always had an interest in being a social worker. I really enjoyed the health and social care course I did at college during which I also took on a contact role in a special needs school and was quickly promoted to their safeguarding team. I surprised myself doing well on the course and after two years, I knew I wanted to further my education with a social work degree.

Q: How has campus life been for you?

Emilia: Living on campus in the first year was great for immersing myself in university life, finding out about societies and the wellbeing support available and meeting a lot of new people. Bath made a point of supporting us and promoting non-drinking events, which I appreciated.

Sopph: The campus is stunning and the Students' Union (SU) is fantastic. I needed a lot of support in my first year, and the SU was amazing in helping and understanding my situation. The campus is friendly and welcoming with everything you need right here.

Abby: Bath really does have a supportive ethos. There are so many things you might be unsure about before you start. I was worried about the cost of student life, but the campus offers affordable student meals and other cost-saving options, for instance.

Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?

Sopph: We have guest lectures for some units; it’s helpful to hear about current developments happening in real life and in real time. Different teaching styles also enhance the learning experience.

Abby: I really enjoyed the ‘Ready for Practice’ unit I’ve studied. This builds your skills through role play, workshops, and practical teaching to prepare for placements.

Emilia: Peer mentors from Year 3 of the course came in at lunchtimes to talk to us about portfolios and the support available during placements. It was nice to talk to people close my own.

Q: How has the course helped you grow personally and professionally?

Sopph: Since starting university, I have become much more independent and confident. Also, as the course teaches us about issues that affect us as individuals — such as mental health and anxiety — it shows us that we’re not alone and helps you grow as a person.

Abby: Meeting like-minded people has been one of the best parts. Our WhatsApp groups and the support within our cohort have been invaluable.

Emilia: The size of the course’s cohort makes it easier to meet people and have open discussions. We're all supportive, with no judgment, which allows us to show vulnerability and become a closer group.

Q: Can you tell us about your placement experiences?

Abby: My placement was with Care Support Wiltshire, where I was involved in assessments for unpaid carers. Although my interest is in working with young people, this experience with adults made me realise I could also be happy working in adult social work. It’s amazing to see the positive impact you can have on people.

Emilia: I worked at Barnardo's adoption agency, dealing with adults, children, and families. I learned the importance of organising and prioritising my work to manage my caseload effectively. I also learned to maintain a good work-life balance.

Sopph: I worked at a housing association in Bristol, which highlighted the lack of support many adults face. People needed help following trauma or addiction, or to access financial advice. I learned a lot about the resources available to help people. As someone with a hidden disability, I was worried about struggling during my placement, but Bath provided great support and I was able to complete my work successfully.

Q: What transferable skills have you gained?

Abby: Communication, listening, and observational skills. Meeting different people during placements and working with various professionals has been great for learning to stay curious and ask questions.

Sopph: Resilience and patience. You learn that it can take time to help people and that you shouldn’t give up at the first hurdle.

Emilia: So many skills, but I would include relationship building, leadership, group work, self-reflection, and self-growth. The course teaches you a lot that will take you forward in your career, but it also teaches you about yourself.

Q: Final thoughts?

Abby: I think the course helps you realise you are part of the next generation of social workers: you see how much the profession needs to change and develop, yet you know you can help shape that change

Emilia: I came in thinking I needed to be amazing from the start, but it’s a journey of learning. It is good to come in with an open mind and enjoy the process.