Yes, I'm choosing to get a degree in social work and working with kids. Yes, I realize how hard that field can be. Yes, I know it isn't for the weak. Yes, I realize there will be breakdowns. No, I won't be changing my major anytime soon.

99% of the time when I say I'm majoring in social work, I get this blank look that pretty much says "are you an idiot?" Maybe I am, but do you really have to look at me that way? Some reassurance every now and then would be greatly appreciated, because the bottom line is I'm not changing my major.

I didn't choose this field of study because I thought it would be easy.

I didn't choose it because it makes a lot of money.

I sure didn't choose it because I knew it would be an easy job.

I chose to major in social work because I want to change the system.

I'm tired of watching innocent kids suffer because our foster care system sucks. I'm tired of watching kids cry their eyes out because DHR is putting them back with an abusive family. I'm tired of watching special needs kids not get the care they need and deserve. I want to change that. I want to help these little lives.

To me, this will be far more than a job. This will be my life.

The fact that I can be a supporter of those kids means more than anything to me. I want to go to sleep at night knowing that I did everything in my power to make sure they are safe and happy. I want to wake up and know that the children I'm helping just woke up in a good home, with a soft, cozy bed. I want to make a difference for these children.

If that means that I have a few rough days, then so be it.

I love kids. I have always loved kids. Being in this field guarantees me a job with them. It's guaranteed that I get to spend my days with those fun little munchkins. So yes, I'm going into social work. Yes, I will have hard days. No, the pay isn't the best. I don't care. This will be my life, and I will love every minute of it.