Social work in action: Gaining global experience through work-integrated learning

It was during a language class in 2017 that Courtney Williamson realised she wanted to pursue a career in social work. Now, as a fourth-year Bachelor of Social Work student completing her final placement in Sweden, she’s gaining hands-on experience in the field she’s passionate about.

Courtney’s pivotal moment came when she attended a free Swedish language class offered by the government to all new migrants. Sitting in a classroom with people of all walks of life helped Courtney understand she was drawn to a helping profession.

“I thought about how cool it was that we were all doing this together, and that it was offered to everyone. I had previously lived in several countries where the resources for new migrants were either non-existent or hard to find. Sweden’s approach inspired me to pursue a career where I could work with people, supporting them and helping to make life easier. My own experiences as a traveller led me to focus on migrants and refugees, wanting to be part of a system that is proactive and helpful.”

At the time, large numbers of people were fleeing their countries, seeking asylum or refugee status, which deeply troubled Courtney. Seeing the lack of resources available for people in need, she became passionate about social justice. Courtney then realised social work was the right path for her to make a tangible difference, leading her to Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University.

“I didn’t really know much about the social work degree when I first considered studying. But when I came across it on Massey’s website, I was drawn to it because of the skillset it promised. My goal is to keep learning more skills so I can be at my best and be able to help others. I looked at other social work degrees, but what stood out about Massey’s programme was its international recognition.”

Another major draw for Courtney was the university’s distance-learning offering, which she says has had a huge impact on her life.

Courtney had already set her sights on completing her final placement in Sweden long before she was officially accepted into the programme.

“I laugh now because I was perhaps a little cheeky writing to Dr Polly Yeung to tell her this, but she shared the requirements for an overseas student placement, and I kept them front of mind throughout my degree. By the time I was ready, I had already lived in Stockholm for almost five years and built a community there. I felt that Sweden offered the opportunities and accessibility I needed, and I love meeting new people, learning languages and experiencing different cultures. I wanted to be pushed out of my comfort zone, so an international context was exactly what I was looking for.”

School of Social Work Associate Professor Kathryn Hay played a key role in supporting Courtney’s placement progress. Courtney credits Dr Hay’s belief in her ability to success for keeping her motivated throughout the lengthy application journey.

“The process is all self-led, right up until the moment Dr Hay meets the field educator. It took about eight months to organise, and I applied to 10 organisations in Stockholm until Futuraskolan gave me the green light. I had to submit a comprehensive application to Professor Kieran O’Donoghue, the Head of School of Social Work, to show that I would be safe, secure and able to complete my placement successfully. Add in visa complications, Teams calls, StudyLink applications and purchasing flights, and then I was off!”

Courtney’s previous placement in Tauranga had been equally unconventional. In her third year, she shadowed a probation officer at Te Ara Poutama - Education Review Office. Although probation officers don’t require a social work degree, Courtney was drawn to the themes of resettlement and supporting people through difficult transitions, which aligned with her interests in working with migrants and refugees.

“I didn’t mind that I wasn’t in a traditional social work role. I wanted to gain skills and tools to help me grow. What stood out to me was how important connection is. Meeting people where they are, listening to them and showing respect can lead to real progress.”

Courtney says one of the most rewarding aspects of her placement in Sweden had been seeing the students so happy and forming meaningful relationships with them.

This year, Courtney has received two prestigious social work awards: the Academic Excellence Award and the Merv Hancock Award, shared with another recipient.

“I feel very grateful, as I set a high standard for myself, so these awards really validate my hard work and perseverance in my studies, to my peers and to myself. I always try to do my best and make my mum proud. I know she is; she says it often!”

Looking ahead, Courtney’s passion lies in areas like resettlement, community development and sustainability, but she remains open to new opportunities within the field. Currently travelling Southeast Asia, she plans to volunteer and continue learning about social work in different contexts before returning to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Her advice for those considering a social work career is to realise it’s about others, but also you.

“Social work is about working alongside others, but it’s also about learning who you are and what you want in life. The degree has opened up a whole new world for me, and it’s given me the tools to help others while also learning more about myself in the process.”