Continuing my studies in the Master of Social Development program has been my dream since I was pursuing my Bachelor of Sociology degree, because I felt that my knowledge was not sufficient to understand issues related to social development. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I worked as a community assistant at a company, which greatly facilitated my master’s studies in Social Work because the learning process involved many discussions and exchanges of ideas with friends from other professions/backgrounds, each with their own perspectives.

Shortly after completing my master’s degree, I began my career as a civil servant (PNS) as a Social Services Analyst in the Social Protection and Security Division of the Sleman District Social Services Agency. Being an analyst in the social sector also means dealing with other social aspects such as education and health. Therefore, almost all of the knowledge I gained in my master’s degree in PSdK is relevant to my work. When I entered the workforce and had to attend meetings related to health insurance, poverty alleviation, Ministry social pillar assistance (Taruna Siaga Bencana, Kampung Siaga Bencana, Pelopor Perdamaian), as well as field visits for assistance request surveys, I felt familiar and often recalled courses related to social security protection, poverty, and community empowerment, especially in identifying community issues, entrepreneurship as a means to empowerment, social organizations, and others.

Given the relevance of the Master’s program in Social Welfare and Development to community life issues, my message to Master’s students in Social Welfare and Development is to attend lectures and make the most of classroom discussion opportunities. This will greatly support your future work in any field, as the scope of Social Welfare and Development is broad.