In the field of social work research and practice, considerable focus has been placed on the preparedness of students as they transition from being students to becoming professionals. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the processes that occur during the final academic year of their training - a critical transition period that requires a deeper examination. Using a qualitative approach, the study examined the phenomenological perspectives of twenty-nine social work students at an Israeli university during the final academic year of their bachelor's degree, employing the photovoice methodology. Content analysis of the results identified four key characteristics of the final academic year: 1) The liminal-transitional nature of identity work during the final year; 2) Separation from the student identity; 3) The doorknob effect; and 4) Entering the professional shoes. The research results are discussed and conceptualized within the framework of the theory of liminality, highlighting its relevance to understanding the transition processes that characterize professional identity work. Additionally, the study explores the implications of liminality in preparing students for entering the job market, particularly considering the distinction between being a professional and becoming a professional.

Authors:
Menny Malka, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Menny Malka is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at Department of Social Work, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel in Israel

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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