Annual Report 2016. CENTRE FOR EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING and
CAREER SERVICES
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR When most students tell us that building their career path is one of the most important goals that they need to achieve by studying at VIU, we take our responsibility to help them accomplish this goal very seriously. We are proud of the work-integrated and co-curricular learning opportunities that we provide to enable VIU students to develop the practical knowledge and skills they require to attain their desired careers. We do this by bridging the world of work with students’ studies through our co-operative education programs, internship courses, and learning-focused co-curricular initiatives. When it comes to bridging the world of work with students’ studies, and helping students achieve their career goals, the commitment and expertise demonstrated by the faculty and staff in the Centre for Experiential Learning and the Career Services office are second to none. Students who have taken advantage of opportunities for experiential learning at VIU, graduate and embark on their alumni path with exceptional academic knowledge and skills, applicable work experience, contacts in their field of study, and a professional and relevant resume; all of which provide the best possible foundation for a successful career. There are many different work-integrated and co-curricular initiatives at VIU. The important similarity is that they all require the support of community Partners in Learning working in collaboration with the student, the University, and workplace mentors. This first report from the Centre for Experiential Learning is a great read. It informs through statistical information, acknowledges the support from local organizations, and celebrates the students and Partners in Learning who bring experiential learning to life. I can’t express how excited I am, as a passionate advocate for work-integrated and co-curricular learning, to be a part of the excellent accomplishments of students at VIU. Together with our vital Partners in Learning, I look forward to ensuring that we continue to preserve the important workplace learning outcomes that are the hallmark of VIU’s programs. Dr. Carrie Chassels Executive Director, Student Affairs
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INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
The past academic year has been a busy one! Change and growth have been at the forefront for the Centre for Experiential Learning (CEL), and Career Services. Under the umbrella of the CEL are the work-integrated learning courses, as well as the new Co-Curricular initiative and Peer-Supported Learning program. Furthermore, Career Services has moved to a new location and has taken over the management of oncampus student employment. They are also still providing career support for the general student population.
Message from the Executive Director ··················· 3
This report highlights students who have received a Student of the Year award in their program, and the Partners in Learning who have stood out as exceptional co-educators. This report also provides the reader with statistical data on our current work-integrated learning courses and career-related services. Lastly, the Co-Curricular initiative is new to Vancouver Island University, and we are excited to be a part of its development and growth. This activity will develop through a three-stage approach with an overview provided in this report.
Students at VIU Can Assist ································· 21
Introduction ························································ 4 CEL Program Learning Outcomes ························· 5 Description of Work Integrated Programs ············ 6 Special Thank You ··············································· 9 Statistics for 2015—2016 ··································· 10 Student Success Stories ····································· 14 Student of the Year Award Recipients ················ 17
Partner in Learning of the Year Recipients ·········· 22 Quotes from our Partners in Learning ················ 26 2016 Partners in Learning ·································· 27 Co-curricular Record ·········································· 33 Peer Supported Learning ··································· 34 Career Services·················································· 35
Also new to us this year is an event we intend to host annually: CELebrate. This event is designed to spotlight student accomplishments in experiential learning programs and is also an occasion that allows us to express our thanks and support for our Partners in Learning and VIU’s senior leadership. The event provides a venue for students and the internal VIU community to connect with external stakeholders. Finally, we look forward to having the chance to appreciate our colleagues and their contributions to student learning. We invite and encourage our Partners in Learning to engage in continuous discourse about our students’ impact. We ask, and will continue to find ways for our Partners in Learning to meet with us and provide information relevant to the labour market and workplace. We are keen to find the means in which we might strengthen our relationship and work together. We believe our Partners in Learning are co-educators, and together we can ensure our students have opportunities to apply their studies in the field. This year has been an exciting for us. The CEL and Career Services team are a dedicated, skilled and diligent student-focused group who are anticipating the coming year with energy and commitment to one another, and the students we serve.
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CEL PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES The CEL Program Learning Outcomes were developed to align with Vancouver Island University’s Graduate Attributes which include; Literacies, Intellectual and Practical Skills, and Civic Engagement.
1.
Analyze their learning (skills, strengths, interests, values, experiences, accomplishments) to draw integrative connections between education and a workplace context.
2.
Engage in the self-directed process of continuous learning through reflective inquiry.
3.
Synthesize knowledge, facts, and data to make informed decisions based upon current and culturally relevant workplace practices, labour market research, information, and trends.
4.
Demonstrate skills and knowledge through various means (written and oral communication, technology, social media applications and research activities).
5.
Contribute responsibly and participate professionally to foster collaborative relationships and cohesive teamwork.
6.
Communicate proactively and assertively.
7.
Adapt to environments with varied operational or cultural points of view while contributing positively and ethically to the organization.
8.
Apply theories, concepts and practices acquired through academic and work terms.
9.
Purposefully reflect on challenges and successes to enhance learning and workplace aptitudes.
10.
Integrate a disciplined process of inquiry that incorporates research that advances knowledge, synthesizes information, addresses emerging issues or applies scholarship to problem solving.
11.
Demonstrate learning and accomplishments through reflective, creative and innovative methods.
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WORK-INTEGRATED PROGRAMS MASTERS OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION The MBA internship program provides critical learning opportunities and enables students to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout their course of study to an active business environment. Students enrolled in the program are required to take two preparatory internship classes as well as engage in a 16 week internship in the final 4 months of the program. VIU MBA interns are a highly skilled talent pool who bring fresh ideas, a global perspective and creative energy to any business. Career areas of interest to MBA interns are often Marketing, Strategic Planning, Finance, Human Resources, Management and Business Development.
HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT Hospitality Management graduates are highly employable, applying their skills in careers such as events, hotel and conference management, sales and business development and food and beverage operations. Students participating in the Hospitality Management program learn from industry leaders in co-operative education work terms each summer and return to school with new skills, knowledge, abilities and contacts! The co-operative education work terms enable students to put academic learning into practice, and helps to develop transferable and subject-specific skills. It is also a valuable opportunity to learn from highly experienced leaders and can help to discover your particular area of interest within the sector.
CRIMINOLOGY The criminology internship is an opportunity for students to gain field experience and find out firsthand what it is like to work in the Criminal Justice System. The four month internship not only provides students the opportunity to utilize concepts, skills and theories learned in the classroom but to gain an understating of how individual sectors of the criminal justice system work on a day to day basis. In addition, as students are completing their internship while still completing academic courses, they are able to bring their field experience into the classroom to inform discussions, assignments and deepen their understanding of course material. Because criminology is an interdisciplinary science, students pursue internships in a range of areas including: Probation, Parole, Policing, Law, Corrections and Non-Profits. The opportunities in non-profit are varied and can include working with: at risk youth, individuals with mental health issues, individuals with drug and alcohol addiction, individuals seeking housing and those seeking resources transitioning back into the community after incarceration. The experience and contacts established through the completion of an internship gives students the confidence to enter the field upon graduation.
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WORK-INTEGRATED PROGRAMS INTERIOR DESIGN The field of Interior Design is creative and multi-faceted and allows for a range of Internship opportunities for students in the Degree program to consider. Students have the opportunity to apply their education in the field and develop a professional network. The students in this program complete a six-week internship, exposing them to a variety of business and design practices in the field. Student apply their education during their internship but also benefit from mentorship by industry professionals. Students can pursue internships in the following areas: Interior Design Consulting Firms, Architectural Firms, Corporations, Residential Interior Design Studios, Wholesale and Retail Sales, Rendering Artist, Model/Furniture product building, Textile Design, Kitchen and Bathroom Design and Set Design for Film, Television or the Theatre. Upon completion of their internship, students return to the classroom and use their field experience to enhance their 4th and final year of studies. Many of the students will use their Internship mentors as their external advisor for their final fourth year project.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Internships in Sport, Health and Physical Education is designed as a fun blended learning yearlong experiential learning course beginning with the fall semester focusing on preparing for a spring 60 or optional 120 hour internship experience. The overall intention of the course is to prepare students to transition from school to career or future graduate studies and experiences. SHAPE Interns have successfully engaged in learning experiences in local elementary and high schools, within community sports programs, at local recreation facilities, within health/wellness agencies, physiotherapy clinics, community care facilities and private clinics. Many of these interns have used the internship as a practical introduction to admissions for graduate research programs, occupational, physiotherapy and chiropractic schools in Canada and
internationally.
CULINARY ARTS The Culinary Arts co-operative education program offers a variety of opportunities through paid co-op work terms. Our students graduate with valued work experience in the industry and establish excellent careers in a variety of locations across Canada and internationally. Students are completing successful work term at the following: Five star hotels such as the Fairmont, Hilton and Delta; remote fishing lodges; fine dining restaurants; cooking opportunities at oil and gas camps; food trucks; family restaurants and retirement homes.
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WORK-INTEGRATED PROGRAMS COMPUTER SCIENCE The Centre for Experiential Learning Coordinates the Co-op program for the Computer Science Program. Students who are registered in the Co-op program can pursue a variety of paid work term opportunities and acquire industry experience to complement their academic training and knowledge. Co-op is a great way for students to graduate with
industry experience and contacts!
TOURISM AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT Co-operative education experiences (co-ops) in Recreation and Sport Management are designed in two distinct and important experiences, for first year students and for second years. This course is a comprehensive planning course held in the fall semester designed to prepare students for your summer co-op work term. The co-op work terms are paid employment situations where the Partner in Learning (employer) provides opportunities, resources and expertise that contribute to student learning through a summer co-op experience. These co-op experiences are fantastic opportunities for students to apply and further construct upon their academic knowledge in a workplace environment
ABORIGINAL ECOTOURISM TRAINING PROGRAM Aboriginal Ecotourism Training Program is a partnership between Vancouver Island University, Heiltsuk Tribal Council and North Island College. Funding provided by both the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Job Fund and the Province of British Columbia. Some work term opportunities included: Tour Guide; Front Desk Attendant; Tribal Journey’s Coordinator; Aquarium Guide; Events and Social Media Coordinator and Visitor Service Counsellor.
ENGINEERING Engineering students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom in a four month Co-op Work Term. As engineers are problem solvers, students take their problem solving skills into the field in a variety of different environments. There are many different areas within the field of engineering; Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Environmental and Computer. Students have completed Co-op work-terms locally and some have travelled across Canada to develop themselves professionally. Engineering students have been lucky to learn from professionals in the field who also completed Co-op work terms during their education and training. As the field of engineering values Cooperative Education as a means to develop its talent, students are given practical experience to enhance their learning. VIU students have completed Co-op work terms with: Herold Engineering, Cedar Road LFG, Andritz Automation, Service Commission of the Yukon, KJ Contracting, NorthWest Fabworks, Timberlake Jones, VMAC, EBA, SLR, All North and the Pacific Biological Station. Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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SPECIAL THANK YOU To the following Partners in Learning, who participated on campus through guest lectures, recruitment activities and mentorship: 460 Realty Aboriginal Tourism BC Affirmative Financial Corp. AIME / Auracle Align 4 Growth Array Studios Art Institute of Vancouver Awarewolf Creative Banff & Lake Louise Hospitality Association Banff Lodging Company Banff Park Lodge BC Ferry BC Hydro Best Buy BMW - Mercedes Nanaimo BOB Revolution Bookfest Booking.com Borden Ladner Gervais LLP Business Max Consulting Inc. Business Works For Youth Capilano Group Coastal Community Credit Union Chatwin Engineering Checkwitch Poiron Architects CIBC City of Yellowknife Coast Hotels Community Corrections Community Futures Central Island Cowichan Tribes City of Nanaimo Delta Grand Okanagan Resort Delta Ocean Pointe Resort District of Ucluelet Dominion Lending Centres Integrity Mortgage Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association (DNBIA) Earls Faganello Counselling Fairmont Chateau Whistler Fairmont Empress Five Star Embroidery & Silkscreening Folki Herbs Inc. Freedom 55 Financial GAIN Graphic Designers of Canada
Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce GS Travel (Vancouver) Ltd. Haugan & Associates Wealth Mgmt Group HealthMegaMall Heiltsuk Tribal Council Honest Renter Howard Johnson Hotel HRfx Consulting Huu-ay-aht Group of Businesses Integral Wealth Securities Ltd Integrative Health Management Interfor Inuktun Services Ltd. Investors Group Financial Services Inc. JA Smith Business Solutions Group John Howard Society Lake Louise Inn Leansoft Consulting Inc. Legal Shield Living Forest Campground Lululemon Makerspace Mercer Creative, Panago Pizza Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Mobile Korner Solution Inc. Moraine Lake Lodge Mosaic Information Technologies Ltd. Nanaimo Association for Community Living Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation Nanaimo Airport Authority Nanaimo Economic Development Commission Nanaimo Foundation Nanaimo Lifeline Program Nanaimo Magazine Nanaimo Newsbulletin Nanaimo Women's Centre National Best Financials North Nanaimo Banking Centre Northridge Properties Nuclear Hamburger Video Productions Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Orca Dreams Origin at Longwood Powerhouse Growers Primal Communications Ltd. Prizm Media Inc. Quadrus Investment Services Ltd.
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Real Estate Webmasters Regional District of Nanaimo Remax of Nanaimo Roar Representation Royal Bank of Canada Royal Lepage Nanaimo Reality Rundle Resort Salvation Army School District #68 SEI Chemicals Canada Smythe CPA / LLP Snuneymuxw First Nations Sockeye Songhees Nation Startup Nanaimo Sun life Sunbelt Business Brokers BC (West Coast) Inc. Sunlife Financial TD Bank Text Magazine The Beach Club Resort The Grand Hotel Nanaimo The Network Hub The Parkside Hotel & Spa The Permaculture Society The Wickaninnish Inn Thriving Locally Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort Toyota Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge Ucluelet Parks, Recreation and Culture United Way - Central & North Vancouver Island Vancouver Courier Vancouver Island and Interior CPA Vancouver Island Economic Alliance Vancouver Island Symphony Vancouver Whitecaps Football Club Victim Services Watermark Beach Resort Wild Craft Play WildPlay Element Park Women's Enterprise Centre WPC Building Services Yellow Pages
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STATISTICS FOR 2015 - 2016 CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION COMPUTER SCIENCE Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 6 6
TOTAL 6 6
CULINARY ARTS Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 54 71
TOTAL 54 71
HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 78 95
TOTAL 78 95
Summer '16
TOTAL
78 85
78 85
RECREATION AND SPORT TOURISM MANAGEMENT Partners in Learning Students in work terms
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STATISTICS FOR 2015 - 2016 INTERNSHIP CREATIVE WRITING Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 3 3
TOTAL 3 3
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 4 5
TOTAL 4 5
CRIMINOLOGY Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Spring '16 32 32
TOTAL 32 32
INTERIOR DESIGN Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Summer '16 25 24
TOTAL 25 24
MASTERS OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Partners in Learning Students in work terms
Fall '15
Winter '15 - '16 Spring '16 Summer '16
67 72
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7 7
98 104
21 22
TOTAL 193 205
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STATISTICS FOR 2015 - 2016 STUDENT WORK TERM LOCATIONS AROUND THE GLOBE
BRITISH COLUMBIA
CANADA
WORLDWIDE
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STATISTICS FOR 2015 - 2016
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STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES “Co-op taught me how to work under pressure, solve problems and most important for me was that I was able to apply the work I have learnt in class right at work itself. On the other hand I also made lifelong friends from all over the world, which I’ve already had the opportunity to meet them in their home countries.”
Ruben Oussoren Hospitality Management
“My internship gave me confidence in my skills as a writer and confirmed my belief that writing is an important tool for engagement. In the last month of my studies, I saw a job posting for a writer at North Island College and jumped at the chance to be part of a dynamic marketing team. I was thrilled when, three weeks before graduation, I was offered full time work. My new position evolved into a permanent role, one that I would not have qualified for without the skills I learned at VIU.”
Jennifer Cox Creative Writing
“I gained an understanding of what working in the “real world” is like, and what it takes to reach my goals of becoming a Crime Analyst with a police force. I am currently in a Telecommunications Operator position with the Westshore RCMP and I know that my internship experience gave me a significant advantage.”
Adelle Hoskins Criminology Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES “I had no experience in a restaurant at all, but after the first year, I was well-prepared to work in commercial kitchens,” says Kerr. “It’s a production program. There’s real pressure, it’s demanding and eye-opening, you have to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Going to school in the trades has opened my eyes to the fact that these jobs are not easy.”
Janet Kerr Culinary Arts
“My internship as a Marketing Assistant at Inuktun, exposed me to various marketing strategies and contributed positively to my professional knowledge base. The internship has helped me to acquire new skills that are essential for the continuation of my professional career. Although the MBA/MScIB program was intense and fast-paced, it assisted me in developing relationships with graduates and faculty from a variety of professional backgrounds and different countries.”
Idisemi Apulu MBA
“My co-ops over the course of my degree have completely changed the value of my education at VIU. The classes and academic work were, of course, beneficial, and gave me a solid theoretical and analytical understanding of Computer Science. The work-terms however gave me practical applications of that course work. I was able to apply the vast majority of what I had learned in class to my work, and my understanding of those theoretical concepts solidified as I put them to use on a day to day basis. I feel very fortunate to be able to graduate from a degree program with three diverse work experiences and contacts within the industry.”
Oliver Jourmel Computer Science
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STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES “Classroom learning is great, but the most learning I’ve done is during co-op. You get to immediately and directly apply what you’ve learned in a real world situation, getting first-hand experience in the industry.”
Jonelle van Rensburg Hospitality Management “I had the opportunity to complete two 60 hour internships in both private and public rehabilitation practices. These two experiences afforded me the opportunity to better ground my undergraduate SHAPE education and affirm my passion for physiotherapy. As such these internships provided the valuable hands-on experiences which were foundational for my admittance into the McMaster University Physiotherapy Graduate program.”
Alex Keizer Physical Education
“Throughout this summer co-op position, I learnt to believe and have confidence in my abilities and the decisions that I make. Through this experience and through the self-reflection activities, I have become more aware of my strengths and areas of improvement, both personally and professionally. Moving forward, this will allow me to develop better strategies in order to become more successful.”
Cassie Ofner Tourism and Recreation Management Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS This award recognizes those Co-operative Education and Internship students that made a significant impact at their work term organization, who made a contribution to promoting experiential learning, participated in extra-curricular activities, demonstrated personal and professional growth, and relevance of study to the workplace and vice versa.
Flynn Saunderson – Recreation & Sport Management Through co-operative education I have been able to grow personally in many different ways. One way that co-operative education has given me positive personal growth is by challenging me to do things I didn't think I could do on my own. This came into effect when I was planning the Tofino/Ucluelet section of the regional familiarization tour. I was met with many challenges during the planning stage including but not limited to, the use of a small budget, adapting to changing situations, planning out multiple days so that we touch on a diverse range of attractions and activities and finally my little experience with event planning all made it challenging for myself. In the end I was able to provide a tour that was successful and one in which my manager and supervisor personally praised me for. The outcome of all this is my now increased confidence in my abilities and reduced tendency to doubt them.
Brook Pearce, Co-operative Education Coordinator Flynn is a student who is not only engaged in his own success, but he is fully engaged in the success of his classmates and friends. He is thorough, thoughtful, positive and always with a smile on his face. He represents himself well and is an excellent example of a VIU recreation and tourism student in the community.
Amanda Stanley – Hospitality Management I’m an introvert. And co-op pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Because I am in a position that requires interaction with complete strangers I have struggled creating conversations in the past. Becoming Groups Coordinator and Front Desk Supervisor has challenged this aspect of my personality. Every day I have to interact with complete strangers through email, in person and over the phone. I have become more confident. I find myself grinning as I walk through the hallway, greeting everyone as they pass. I never thought that I could interact this confidently with complete strangers, and with such ease now! This is why co-op is so important. It allows a student to be pushed outside of comfort zones to really grow; not only educationally, but personally. Without it, I don’t think I ever would have grown this much.
Lynda Robinson, Co-operative Education Coordinator Amanda is truly deserving of the 2016 Hospitality Management Student of the Year Award. Amanda consistently demonstrates a wonderful combination of professionalism, humour and intelligence. She has gone above and beyond in her co-op work term and truly understands the basic service principle of ‘little things make a BIG difference’. Congratulations Amanda! Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Ricky Truong – Masters of Business Education Without the MBA internship experience at Affirmative Financial Corp (AFC), the great life I enjoy in Nanaimo might never have come about: a permanent full time job, a thoughtful mentor and valuable connections. It was truly a life changing experience that enhanced my practical learning and strengthened my career development as a marketing specialist in the financial industry. Finding new ways of doing things has always been my passion. Bringing people together for a broader impact is also a source of inspiration. These philosophies were the impetus of creating a unique event: “Good Health Is Good Business. Is It True?” This was a vivid showcase of how the internship experience has contributed to my achievement. The MBA program would be incomplete without the internship experience.
John Woychuk, MBA Internship Coordinator Ricky is a super engaged and collaborative individual. He sees the bigger picture and how community fits into his work and efforts. The following quote from Ricky’s letter demonstrates the breadth of his vision and attitude, “VIU has had a great impact in the local business community though MBA internships. I am very exciting to build on that momentum and trust that, with diverse background and experience, I can bring new flavours, create inspiring projects and connect more businesses for cooperative growth. Let’s continue to accomplish amazing things for Nanaimo… together!” Ricky is very deserving of this award. I look forward to seeing him grow in his career.
Brianna Savery – Interior Design Thinking back to 8 months ago when I was the only student in the class to use the word “terrified” to describe how I felt about preparing for the upcoming internship, I’m so proud to be comparing to where I am now, and the difference that I feel. Stepping out of my comfort zone has always been the key to personal growth. In the future I will be sure to encourage younger students and future interns, and share my experience. I would also encourage future employers to consider hiring students as interns, and volunteer to partner up with them myself.
Alexis Beaubier, Co-operative Education & Internship Coordinator Brianna embraced her Internship experience and challenged herself to grow and develop professionally while in the field. She received outstanding feedback from her supervisor and was praised for her initiative and her ability to produce high quality work. Her supervisor was so impressed with Brianna and her abilities, that she offered her employment after the completion of her internship. I saw Brianna developed confidence in her skills through the internship and I am very happy to see her efforts and professional growth validated with this award. She is very deserving of this award and I look forward to seeing how Brianna continues to develop professionally in the field of Design. Congratulations Brianna.
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STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Aubrey Robertson – Bachelor of Science Degree, Computing Science Major Before obtaining my current co-op placement, I held strong doubts as to whether or not I would enjoy the direction my work experience to-date was taking me. My placement at VIU changed my formerly gloomy outlook on web development entirely. I have learned so much in the short time I have been in Web Management at VIU. Overall, my experience so far at this placement has been astounding. The managers in the VIU IT Department and my colleagues in the Web Management Office are very supportive and a pleasure to work with. I am very grateful for the opportunity to expand my knowledge and hone my skills in the field of web development. Furthermore, my experience in IT at VIU has helped inform my responsibilities in various political roles on campus and vice versa.
Alexis Beaubier, Co-operative Education & Internship Coordinator Aubrey has been a co-op student of mine for the last three years. He is a very impressive student and one who met and regularly exceeded my expectations. Aubrey has done a great job of pursuing co-op opportunities in the field that have allowed him to grow and develop professionally. In each of his work terms he applied his academic knowledge in the field and in turn, incorporated his field experience in the classroom. Aubrey is a very smart and driven student who has really embraced all that cooperative education has to offer. I’m thrilled that he has been selected as the ‘student of the year’ for computer science, he is very deserving of this award.
Evangeline Clifton – Aboriginal Ecotourism Training Program Throughout the four months that I did my internship I learned so much about the insights of the tourism community, it has helped me realize that a lot of successful businesses work together in order to thrive in the industry. My future plans are to introduce and/or develop the tourism industry in my hometown, of Bella Bella, through a thoughtful respectful process. To initiate more jobs, to add extra revenue to help sustain the livelihood of my community, and our members, without taking away from the environment.
Jamie Noakes, Co-operative Education & Internship Coordinator Evangeline effortlessly took full advantage of her internship by stepping up to every challenge with a great attitude and passion for the tourism industry. She jumped at every opportunity to familiarize herself with the tourism products of the area. Additionally, she contributed to her work environment by having a professional work ethic while also engaging in her academic studies which at times were occurring at the same time.
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STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Yingshi Li - Culinary Arts I completed my co-op work term at one of Nanaimo’s best restaurants, The Bistro at Westwood Lake. I was so fortunate to be mentored under Chef Kellie Callender, a great chef for my work term. This opportunity provided incredible personal growth for me. I started my culinary program at VIU in February, which was my first time in a culinary school. I was very interested and passionate about the program. I spent 7 hours in the kitchen everyday but I always enjoyed what I was doing. I studied and worked using my second language and it was difficult and I was slow at first. However, I always tried very hard. The culinary arts co-op was my first job in Canada; it was a challenge for me. Studying in the school kitchen and working in the restaurant is very different. When I began my co-op, I felt helpless in the restaurant and I wanted to do something to help. Fortunately, Chef Callender is a very patient and knowledgeable chef and teaches a lot of skill in the kitchen. I learned from my co-op work term that in a restaurant I needed to be efficient and be organized. Co-op is an important part of my program; I can learn something different off campus and try to gain work experience that I require before I graduate. It has really helped me to establish a career in the industry and work in Canada. I loved my co-op work term and I always found it interesting.
Sharon Davidson, Co-operative Education & Internship Coordinator Cici Li is an excellent recipient for the Culinary Arts co-op student of the year award. She completed her work term at Westwood Lake Bistro under the outstanding Chef Kellie Callender and his wonderful culinary brigade. Cici brought passion to her work, dedication to the team and demonstrated an exceptional work ethic. She has been an outstanding culinary arts co-op student this summer.
HONOURABLE MENTION Olaoti Adekanmbi – Hospitality Management “My co-op experience was life changing. The experience helped me to see myself in a better position in the future. This experience has made me recreate my goals and perspective toward life. You acquire more skills and knowledge and it helps you to be able to work with other people from different countries. It improves your confidence!”
Lynda Robinson, Co-operative Education Coordinator Congratulations ‘Ola’ for being recognized as the 2106 Hospitality Management Honourable Mention Co-op Student of the Year. Ola demonstrated her determination, very strong work ethic and true tenacity in her co-op work term. She obtained her goals with ‘true grit’ and resilience.
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STUDENTS AT VANCOUVER ISLAND UNIVERSITY CAN ASSIST! Research and Entrepreneurial Opportunities Vancouver Island University (VIU) supports undergraduate research as it provides our students an opportunity to apply their education, gain access to mentors, and develop their skills. Creative inquiry and undergraduate research is something our students within co-operative education and internship programs can offer our Partners in Learning. At VIU we are also interested developing entrepreneurial opportunities for students. If you are interested in hiring a student, or have a research project that you would like to have a student assist with, we likely have a student in one of the many work-integrated programs at VIU that would welcome the opportunity. We are also interested in mentorship opportunities to support students who are wanting to develop their entrepreneurial venture. Hiring and mentoring a VIU student is one of the best decisions you will make. Contact:
Centre for Experiential Learning cel@viu.ca 250-740-6420
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PARTNER IN LEARNING OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS This Award recognizes those VIU industry partners that have demonstrated a strong commitment to experiential education (co-operative education and internship) through the support and hiring of co-op and internship students and/or have shown a high level of overall support of the Centre for Experiential Learning through specific partnerships.
Our Partners in Learning recipients contributed to experiential education by supporting on-campus events, either financially or with in-kind support, attending information sessions, interview clinics, networking events, guests speakers, speaker panels, attending poster or debriefing sessions. They provided quality work experiences, and supported students with their professional growth experience and/or academic development, and provided leadership and support to the student during the work term.
Jeff Palmer, General Manager, Ardmore Golf Course Jeff is deserving of the 2016 Hospitality Management Partner in Learning award as he has demonstrated himself as an exemplary supervisor, mentor and co-op advocate. He provided a welcoming and supportive work culture for his co-op student, as well as an exceptional quality and challenging work experience for the student. Jeff supported his student to develop skills and knowledge in new areas, and tasked the student with important projects and hands on learning. He connected the student to other organizations in the industry for the purpose of supporting the student’s professional development and network expansion, and has offered support of his students growth by providing her the opportunity to grow in her abilities to better market herself in the future. In addition to Jeff’s commitment to support the learning of his co-op students learning, he has a strong interest to expand the partnership and hire more VIU students from other coop programs.
Barry Cosgrove, Partner, Number TEN Architectural Group Number TEN works directly with interns on developing them professionally, exposing them to a range of residential and commercial projects. Students are under the supervision of a trained and certified Architect, a Registered Interior Designer (RID) and/or a Certified Draftsman. Students get experience creating plans in REVIT, BECTOR and AutoCAD and modifying those plans as the project and clients dictate. In addition, students are supported in learning how to interpret and apply the BC Building Code to projects, source out materials according to budget restrictions, and cost out their time as Junior Designers. Number TEN has also provide guidance and direction to students in their fourth and final year of studies. Fourth year Interior Design students are required to get an ‘external advisors’ from the industry to provide feedback on their ‘major project’ (required for graduation).
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PARTNER IN LEARNING OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Serena Klaver, Office Manager, Living Forest Oceanside Campground Serena Klaver and her team have provided a number great co-op learning experiences for VIU co-op students throughout the years and as the camping season moves into the fall, they provide flexible seasonal part time employment to help support students financially. Living Forest has hired new staff without previous experience and provided the unique skills required to succeed in the campground but also the valuable and highly marketable oral communication, leadership, organizational, customer service and team work skills. Living Forest has provided all the training new campground staff need in order to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for the student as they serve the guests. During this past summer midpoint assessments it became clear that the entire Living Forest team believes in the value of work integrated learning through encouraging the VIU co-op students to actively apply their academic knowledge, to explore areas of interest, and contribute ideas that support both applied learning and contribute to business success. Finally, as an Alumni of the VIU Recreation and Tourism program, Serena Klaver has also contributed to student learning through presenting in a number of recreation and tourism classes and she is always eager to share her education and employment story as well as personally introduce students to opportunities within the tourism industry.
Chef Christopher Chafe, Executive Chef, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge The Fairmont Properties have always made an effort to come in person to speak directly to our students about potential co-op and employment opportunities. Each year there are a number of students that have gone to JPL for their co-op work term and had fabulous experiences. JPL provides very strong mentors, leadership and culinary experiences for our students. They provide exceptional apprenticeship opportunities and support the process within their programs. Students have such an amazing experience working in a world class hotel. Chef Christopher Chafe is an outstanding Chef and mentor to our students and embraces the student’s learning experience. JPL staff ensure our students have solid exposure to the culinary industry and try and work with the needs of the individual student. The ease of which I am able to work closely with the HR staff, the Chef and the culinary team has made our partnership exceptional. We have an excellent relationship where I am able to work closely with this Partner in Learning through the early stages of interviewing, selection, evaluation and completion of the work term. They have been such a pleasure to work with over many years. The first class co-op work experience at Jasper Park Lodge is appreciated and admired.
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PARTNER IN LEARNING OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Matt Hutchings, Team Leader, Real Estate Webmasters Real Estate Webmasters (REW) has been very supportive of the Computer Science Co-op Program since 2013. REW has hired CSCI grads and currently employs several VIU alumni. REW has offered CSCI students the opportunity to complete 8 month work-op terms vs the traditional 4 month terms, providing students with even richer learning opportunities and a broader scope of experiences. Based on the complexities of the work they do and the technical components of programing and web development, students gain skills that they are able to integrate into their VIU courses upon their return to campus. Students who have completed their Co-op with REW have talked about their abilities to create programs and write more complex code than their classmates who have not been out in the field. The depth of training provide by REW not only make co-op students more confident in their coursework, but makes them more employable in the field. REW is a large and ever expanding local company who seeks to train and hire local talent and support young and developing programmers. Having an employer such as REW in Nanaimo provides excellent opportunities to those students who want to compete a co-op locally or those who wish to live and work in Nanaimo after graduation.
Lawrence Campbell, Local Manager, Duncan Community Corrections Community Corrections has been a longstanding Partner in Learning and very supportive of the Criminology Internship program at Vancouver Island University. Community Corrections has provided Internship opportunities since 2006, offering positions in their Nanaimo, Duncan Port Alberni, Courtney and Victoria offices. An Internship with Community Corrections is a very popular choice amongst Criminology students, therefore numerous students apply for these positions. The various offices have always tried to accommodate as many students as possible, often supervising up to 5 students at one time. The staff do an exceptional job of supervising students, assigning one Probation Officer to each student, so to provide one on one mentorship and training. By the end of the term many students, under the direct supervision of a Probation Officer, are able to lead client interviews and grasp the overall responsibilities of case management and effective supervision of offenders in the community. Community Corrections have fully embraced their role as a Partner in Learning and have made a commitment to students and their professional development.
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PARTNER IN LEARNING OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS Evelyn Boegh, General Manager, Mosaic Information Technologies Evelyn has supported the MBA program and our students for several years, consistently proving herself as a committed, dedicated and reliable co-educator for our students. Evelyn participated in a focus group conducted by the MBA Internship Office investigating challenges and issues involving MBA student mentorship. She subsequently spearheaded the creation of the MBA Liaison Committee and volunteered as the Chair of the committee for a year. Under her leadership, the committee hosted two MBA students to conduct further research and assist in the development of a “Best Practices in Mentorship Guide�. In this role, she also advocated strongly within the Nanaimo business community to encourage others to join the committee and further support the growth of the MBA Internship Program. Evelyn has consistently attended and supported MBA events, including MBA Business Mixers, Mock Interviews, the MBA Amazing Race, and other networking events. During the MBA Amazing Race, led by Evelyn, Mosaic IT hosted one of the seven business locations in Nanaimo where students completed a business challenge. This involved taking time out of her business day to prepare a challenge and open her business to over sixty MBA students. Evelyn has consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and an openness to meet students for informational interviews and to follow up with them in order to provide them with opportunities based on their needs. For example, a student who had been withdrawn from the program for a semester for family reasons met Evelyn for an informational interview and she offered him a volunteer position. This helped the student demonstrate his level of skill, gain valuable experience in his field and subsequently fill a paid role with Mosaic IT. Through her engagement with students, Evelyn has demonstrated a consistent record of hosting internship students and providing them with high-quality learning opportunities which directly relate to their studies.
Dino Tsembelis, Visitor Services Specialist, Tourism Nanaimo Dino Tsembelis has very much earned this recognition by consistently providing rich cooperative education experiences to the Aboriginal Ecotourism students. He is a Partner in Learning who believes in encouraging those students who seek mentorship and work-integrated learning opportunities. Dino provides daily support in all aspects of the work and models excellence by his own principles and values, ensuring students goals and aspirations are nurtured and supported. Dino holds a special place in our hearts in the Centre for Experiential Learning for many reasons, one of them being he understands our work having been a co-op student himself and he continues to give back as a VIU alumnus. Dino has worked tirelessly for many years now providing excellent mentorship for students across a number of programs.
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QUOTES FROM OUR PARTNERS IN LEARNING “Working with this student, in a VIU internship, was a great experience and we look forward to doing it again!” Director of Expertax Financial Services Inc, Mississauga ON “We believe this is a very efficient way to hire someone. We get to work and train someone for 3 to 4 months, and we get to closely observe and evaluate the various traits of the intern. Our long term goals is to recruit interns.” Senior Vice President of Life Science Research Corp., Toronto ON “VIU interns have a lot to offer to different businesses if they are placed in the right position. Their skills, based on the variety of business courses, are very helpful to any business.” Management Consultant at Business Max Consulting Inc., Nanaimo BC “The MBA internship student increased our capacity, revenue, reach and awareness.” Startup Nanaimo Lead and Facilitator, Nanaimo BC “We are highly impressed with her work attitude, interpersonal skills and team player mentality.” Partner at Number TEN Architectural Group, Victoria, BC “She has a real sense of ownership & sets high expectations of herself, and also holds others to a higher standard." Sales Manager at Floorscapes Inc., Calgary, AB “VIU has been a tremendous asset to us. Their students have a strong work ethic and are trained in such a way that they pick up whatever responsibilities are put in front of them quickly.” Executive Chef, Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, BC “The Fairmont Japer Park Lodge looks forward to welcoming VIU Culinary Co-op students to our hotel annually! The students are well prepared, trained and passionate culinary professionals. Always a great addition to our team!” Assistant Director, Human Resources, The Fairmount Jasper Park Lodge, Jasper, Alberta “The VIU Co-op program has been a valuable asset and recruiting platform for us and they have always been focused and dedicated people who have tremendous potential in our profession.” Executive Chef, Beach Club, Parksville, BC Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING A&T CPA Professional Corporation
BMO Bank of Montreal
Aboriginal Tourism BC
BMW AG
ACE Building Materials Co.,Ltd
Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa
Acro Accounting and Bookkeeping Inc.
Brindle and Glass Publishing
Adefila & Partners
British Columbia Investment Management Corporation
Adepoju Atobatele & Co. Accounting Firm
Brodo
Affirmative Financial Corp.
Brooks Corning
Ainsworth Hot springs
BSuperior
Algonquin College
Business Advisory Team Inc.
Alliance First Realty
Business Max Consulting Inc.
Alvis Tsui (FSS) Inc.
Cactus Club Cafe
Ampvic Development Inc. DBA Chevron
CafĂŠ Brio
Anantara Hotels
Canada Information & Technology Ltd.
Anhui Suo Kaite Construction Engineering Company Ltd.
Canada West Agent Services Ltd.
Arab International Bank
Canadian Luxmore Crowdfunding Co., Ltd.
Arbutus Ridge Golf Course
Canadian Sino Education Exchange Centre
Architrave Architecture Design Build
Captain Printworks
Argentilia, Leon
Carmichael Enterprises/Wellington Place
Arrowsmith Community Justice Society
Casy Industries Limited
Axka Group Inc.
CBI Health Centre
Bayside Bistro and Lounge - Quality Resort
CEMCS Microfinance Bank Limited
Beacon Landing Waterfront Seafood Restaurant & Lounge
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society
Bells & Keys Properties
China Galaxy Securities
Ben Bros Lighting
China Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
Bethlehem Centre Society
Church Pickard Chartered Accountants
Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island
CIBC Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort
City of Nanaimo
BLOCK Residential Interior Design
City Wide Mortgage Services
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING Classic Home Improvements
Edgewood Treatment Centre
Coast Hotels
Empire Clothing
Coco Café
Enterprise Holdings
Collabera Canada Inc.
Ernst & Young
Comfort & Smile for Children and Families affected with Sickle Cell Disease
ESLIDO IM. EX. SL
Comics and Gaming Magazine Community Corrections Community Futures Central Island Community Options Society Cowichan District Hospital Cowichan Tribes Crabapple Café Cream Crest International School Crescent House – Island Crisis Care Society Crystal Cam Imaging, Inc. Cuckoo in Coombs Daily Dollar Plus Daily Profit Digital Performance Agency David Coulson Design Ltd Deez Bar and Grill Design One Stevens Interiors DesignLaB Interors Dover House Care Facility DR.POWER Driftwood Inn (Pebbles Restaurant) Duke Point Transload Ltd. Ealing Council Built Environment Surveying Team
Exclusive Concepts Inc. Expertax Financial Services Inc. F2M International Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Fairmont Chateau Whistler Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge FijiCrowd Technologies Fingertip Deals FirstChoice Canada LLC Five Star Embroidery & Silkscreening Floorscapes Inc. Focus Learning Centre Folki Herbs Inc. Forensic Psychiatric Services Commission Foshan City Shunde District Lecong Town Feixiang Trading Ltd. Freedom 55 Financial FUEL Supplements Vitamins Nutrition Future Gate Ltd. Giant Land Investment Consulting Corporation Global Channels Inc. Global Securities Corp. Globaltec Fireplaces Inc.
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING GoFar Global Education and Immigration Services
Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector
Gold Automotive Ltd.
Island Life Financial
Great Canadian Casino
Island Optimal
Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce
Island Savings
Green by Design Construction
Ivanhoe Cambridge
Guangzhou Huangpu Dongxing Grain & Oil Co., Ltd.
J. Ennis Fabrics
Harbour City Massage Therapy
Jawad Agency Educational Services
Harris Victoria
Jiangsu Wanheng Casting Industry Co. Ltd.
HDR Architecture Inc.
John Howard Society
HealthMegaMall
Just Greet Media Inc.
Heiltsuk Tribal Council
Kalvas Restaurant
Henry Global Consulting Service Ltd.
Kara-kata Groups Canada
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa
Hilltop Bistro
KPMG LLP
Home Depot
Kristin Balter Designs
Honest Renter
Laird Wheaton GM
HSBC Bank Canada
Lambert's Paint & Carpet Centre
HuanZhong Education
Leansoft Consulting Inc.
Huu-ay-aht Group of Businesses
Ledcor Technical Serviced (LTS)
Immensity City
Life Sciences Research Corp.
India Bistro and Swad Restaurant
Lighthouse Bistro & Pub
Integral Wealth Securities Ltd.
Literacy Central Vancouver Island
Integrative Health Management Services
Liyang Elite Education Academy Corp
Integrity Mortgage Inc
Long Beach Lodge Resort
Interfor
Longwood Brew Pub
Inuktun Services Ltd.
Loschey Consulting
Investors Group
Loud Alive Entertainment
IRED Thermal Group Ltd.
M & K Ghana Limited
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING M Graham & Associates Inc.
Nanaimo Golf Club
MacIsaac & Company
Nanaimo Lifeline Program
Mahle House
Nanaimo Parole Office
Marquise Group
Nanaimo Port Authority
Merrick Architecture
Nanaimo Regional General Hospital
Merrill, Long & Co
Nanaimo Women’s Centre
Microsoft Canada
National Best Financial Services
Mid-Island Rotary World Community Service Group
National Money Mart
Millennium 1 Solutions
NEO Immigration Service Inc.
Millennium Auto Dealers
NeuroFitness Wellness Centre
Ministry of International Trade and Responsible for Asia Pacific Neurokinetics Clinic Strategy and Multiculturalism New Paris Jewellers Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible Nordia for Labour Number TenArchitectural Group Ministry of Social Development & Social Innovation Nurse Next Door Home Care Services Mission Hill Winery Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) MobileBits Oceanside Physiotherapy Mobiling One Globe Education Services Ltd. Modlux Interiors Open Water Catering - Newcastle Mosaic Information Technologies Operations Economics Inc Mount Royal University Orca Dreams Mountain View Bakery Organic ARCHITECT Mr. Organized Pacific Electronic Security Inc. Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre Pacifica Partners Inc. Nanaimo African Heritage Society (NAHS) ParticipAid Nanaimo Archives Pearl Enterprise Nanaimo Child Development Centre Penta Transport Ltd. Nanaimo Cold Storage and Trucking Services Ltd. People's Insurance Company of China Nanaimo Foundation Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Services
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING Pierre Murray with Community Corrections
Salvation Army
Pioneer House
Samaritan House – Island Crisis Care Society
Powerhouse Growers
Sandman Signature Vancouver Hotel and Resort
PressReader
School District # 68
ProElvisJumpsuits
Shanghai Bo Guan Investment Company Limited
Promontory Press
Shangren Vancouver Settlement Service Ltd.
PwC Toronto
Shapedown BC: Healthy Weights Program
Qingdao Langbeier International Trade Co., Ltd.
Shaw Communications
Qingdao Richstar Finance Service Co.
Simcoe Renewable Energy Corp.
Quatrefoils
SimonHolt Restaurant
Queen Charlotte Lodge
SINO-CA Education and Training Development Inc.
Quiet Corner
Snuneymuxw First Nation
RCMP Strategic Prevention Services
Songhees Nation
Real Estate Web Masters
Startup Nanaimo
Recce Robotics
Sukkho Thai Gourmet Restaurant
REMAX
Sunbelt Business Brokers BC (West Coast ) Inc.
Restaurant Andre
Sun Life Financial
Rewsters Restaurant
Sutton Group West Coast Realty
BBQ Pinchos-Rey de Las Menestras -
Sutton Law
RINL Visakhapatnam Steel Plant
Swiss Water Decaffeinated Coffee Company
Riso Foods
Tandoori Junction Indian Cuisine/ Amrikkos
Ritz Carleton
The Beach Club Resort
Royal LePage Realty
The Boston Consulting Group
Ruknan for Public Relations
The Business Advisors
Ruscio Studio
The Compass
S. Anandan and Company
The Grand Hotel Nanaimo
Sage Lighting Ltd.
The Interior Design Group
Salcedo Towers Condominium Corp.S. Ana
The Irish Heather
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2016 PARTNERS IN LEARNING The Lifehouse Chiropractic Studio
Vanperpetual English Language College
The Malahat Review
Vancouver Today Educational Services
The Mayflower Restaurant
VI Fitness
The Network Hub
Vicky’s Homes
The Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
The Olive Station-Gourmet Olive Oil and Vinegar LTD
Victoria Police Department
The Permaculture Society
Volunteer Nanaimo
Tianjin Tianma Printing Co., Ltd
Volunteer Victoria
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre
VP Elite Lending
Tigris
Webacom Media Corporation
Tillicum Haus
Wendy Halliday with Community Corrections
Timberland Pub
Westcoast Industrial Valves and Pumps
Tofino Consumers Co-operative Association
Western Forest Products
Triple Eight Transport Inc.
Western Maritime Institute
Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge
Westwood Bistro
Tsleil Waututh Nation
Whistler Cooks Catering
TTBA Group
White Lion Developments Ltd.
Tubeishat Agency for Educational Services and Consulting
Wild Craft Play
Ubiqon Properties Ltd.
WildPlay Element Parks
Union Club of BC
Wolf and Fog
United Way Central & Northern Vancouver Island
Woodfire Restaurant & Catering
Universal Recognition Inc.
Woodgrove Chrysler
Upstat Marketing Vancouver Island Health Authority Vancouver Island Professional Wrestling Vancouver Island Symphony
World Financial Group Canada Inc. WPC Building Services Xiang Jia Zhaang
Vancouver Island University
Xinjiang Production & Construction Group - Real Estate Co., Ltd.
Vancouver Today Education Services Ltd.
Yicity Technologies Inc.
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CO-CURRICULAR RECORD Vancouver Island University’s Co-Curricular Record: Build your story. Share your experience. What is a VIU Co-Curricular Record? The Co-Curricular Record (CCR) provides a centralized database of activities that lets students easily search for opportunities to develop their interests, self-developed learning goals, and career aspirations by connecting classroom learning to experiences outside the classroom. Students are able to print and/or download an official Co-Curricular Record which is authenticated by the institution. Vancouver Island University (VIU) is committed to student success and the student experience. The University recognizes that engagement in co-curricular activities promotes holistic student development that synthesizes learning from a variety of contexts inside and outside of the classroom.
Build your story: Vancouver Island University is committed to student success and learning through experience. The Co-Curricular Record (CCR) encourages more holistic academic and career development for VIU students by building upon their accumulating skills and experiences.
Share your experience: Each student attending VIU brings unique experiences. The CCR team encourages students to share these experiences while at University, mutually benefiting the institution and supporting students’ learning and the achievement of their goals.
VIU Co-Curricular Record Benefits Students:
Co-curricular engagement and a holistic university experience, and contributes to student success Students can emphasize their Co-Curricular Record in interviews for graduate programs and career aspirations Engaging in opportunities to develop VIU’s Graduate Attributes helps students develop and articulate relevant knowledge and skills that can be demonstrated to employers and for applications/awards Provides a platform for students to involve themselves within the community Students receive recognition for their commitment to co-curricular learning Enhances student self-awareness and develops professional competencies
Faculty/Staff:
Officially facilitates and records opportunities for experiential learning outside the classroom that is relevant to their respective academic areas The CCR program at VIU provides faculty and staff an opportunity to support and recognize their students’ non-credit experiential learning To promote student engagement in their activities
Get Involved: For more information on how you can get involved as a student or staff/faculty please email the Co-Curricular Engagement Coordinator at ccr@viu.ca
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PEER SUPPORTED LEARNING PROGRAM Peer Supported Learning (PSL) is student support program that targets difficult courses within the first and second year of university. Student Leaders are trained and develop skills in facilitating focused study sessions for these courses. Peer Supported Learning offers experiential learning, and community building through the development of its leaders and by bringing students together with a common goal of learning within their discipline. It is a service to our students that promotes and encourages good learning practices, community, and engagement in learning. Currently PSL supports all sections of ACCT 100, ACCT 101, ACCT 201, ECON 100 and four sections of ENGL 115. This program will be expanding to other academic areas at VIU. Peer Supported Learning (PSL) is a non-remedial approach of assisting students as they transition through difficult courses. By targeting difficult courses, and not individual students, PSL attracts learners of all levels and capabilities, and provides learning skills that will assist them in being successful in their studies; and ultimately result in higher retention and progression rates.
Fit within VIU This initiative aligns itself with the current Academic Plan, Enrolment Management objectives and most recently the Successful Student Learning initiative. Peer Supported Learning offers experiential learning, and community building through the development of its leaders and by bringing students together with a common goal of learning within their discipline. It is a service to our students that promotes and encourages good learning practices, community, and engagement in learning.
Comments from Peer Leaders and Students: “PSL has changed my continuing education trajectory. Instead of purely pursuing a CPA designation, I’m now interested in completing a Masters in Accounting so that I would be able to return to campus and teach Accounting some time in the future. I enjoy working with people and even more so, helping them build confidence and knowledge to reduce exam anxiety.” “I’ve heard from students that they cannot imagine accomplishing the grades they received had they not attended sessions, and even after the semester had completed I still see some of my regulars in the halls of 250 and we would stop to chat about how the new semester had been going.” “I thought the PSL Leader really helped connect situations and make the content easier to understand. It’s a really good thing to have available!” First year PSL attendee, Economics 100 “As an international Student I felt comforted by the fact that not only did I have the full support of my professor, but also a group of students, just like me, willing to lend me a hand and help me out during the course, which proved the support that the university has for its students.” International, PSL attendee, Accounting 100
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CAREER SERVICES Career Services provides students and alumni with professional guidance and support for both career planning and job search. They also run student on-campus employment, including the very successful Work-op program, department-funded positions, and the Canada Summer Jobs government initiative, all of which allow students to work on campus and gain valuable experience and workplace skills.
2015-2016 APPOINTMENT STATISTICS:
SERVICES PROVIDED
WORKSHOPS
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CAREER SERVICES — SUCCESS STORIES Work-op Employment Program: Two semesters into my MBA program, a friend alerted me to a CareerVIU posting for Editor of VIU's student newsletter, The Compass. I knew immediately it was the perfect work op for me: a chance to apply professional skills developed over 10 years in the media/ publishing industry in Africa and the Middle East, and an opportunity to get some highly coveted Canadian work experience. During my one year in the position, I was fortunate enough to be mentored by VIU's Executive Director for Student Affairs, Dr. Carrie Chassels, and I benefited greatly from her empowering management and leadership style. And at the end of my term, I took special pride in training the new editor to take over the helm of an e-zine that had a subscription base of over 8,000 students. I could not have asked for a better work op, or a better transition into Canadian workplace culture! — Aamera Jiwaji, MBA/ MScIB Graduate 2016
CareerVIU Job Board: Using Career VIU I was able to find a full-time graphic design job in Nanaimo for the summer. I was employed by the Nanaimo Museum and worked with the wonderful staff to help them transition into their new brand identity, as well as firing the historical waterfront cannons! Strengthening my portfolio and gaining positive workplace experience is priceless for me at this time but having the opportunity to learn and be a part of Nanaimo's culture has been incredibly rewarding as well. — Robin Fast, Graphic Design Student
ON-CAMPUS STUDENT EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS
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THE CENTRE FOR EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING TEAM
Back Row, L-R: Lynda Robinson, Micki McCartney, Alexis Beaubier, John Woychuk. Middle Row, L-R: David Woodward, Jamie Noakes, Alex Bowman, Tawnya Hoff. Front Row, L-R: Nattalle Tessier, Brook Pearce, Rasmey Meas, Selena Martin. Missing from picture: Sharon Davidson, Omar Karim and Shelley-Anne Gajda
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