Larry De Corso was working in finance in London but wanted to change careers to help people in a more impactful way. After working at a US summer camp two years in a row for disadvantaged teens and loving it, Larry decided to study social work.

Larry De Corso

I investigated several different postgraduate courses in social work and the University of Melbourne course stood out for the subjects that it offered – they all sounded really inspiring and a broad selection overall. I ended up moving from London so that I could study at Melbourne!

I have loved the diversity of subjects. and really appreciated the teaching staff and am grateful for the connections I have had through placements.

There are so many ways that the Master of Social Work has helped me prepare for a career in the future, including my two placement experiences in child and family services.

Working with young people in a meaningful way truly inspires me and motivates me.

My research placement with The National Voice for Our Children (SNAICC was incredibly informative, I learned a great deal about child and family services and the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders in out-of-home care in Australia, and what SNAICC are working on to address this.

I have also been a part of the mentoring program which has connected me with a mentor in Queensland who has a great deal of experience and has been a great support thus far.

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I have definitely gained huge amounts from my peer relationships that I formed with fellow students. These connections have been a massive support throughout the course.

My advice to future students is to make the most of the teaching staff while you are studying. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge in the area and are incredibly willing to help and support you. Social work is a care-focused field, and that care is truly felt within the course so don’t be afraid to reach out and make full use of it!

I am excited to be working with youth and young people in the future and see that as being my next step in social work. I loved the camp structure when I worked in the US and would love to work in similar environments using outdoor adventure programs in therapeutic ways.