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  • Career Profile: Vocational Education Teachers – Post-Secondary

    Career Profile: Vocational Education Teachers – Post-Secondary

    After high school, many people go to university or community colleges to learn to become teachers, doctors, librarians, or computer experts. Other people choose to learn a trade, such as construction, mechanics, and other fields, through vocational school. If you want to help these types of people, you might want to consider becoming a vocational education teacher for post-secondary students.

    According to government statistics, about half of Canadians between the ages of eighteen and twenty-four are studying at some form of post-secondary school, whether that is at a university, college, or vocational school. For many students, vocational school is a natural choice for what they want to do. The studies are practical and lead to jobs that can keep people working throughout their careers.

    All schools need teachers who can give students the information and skills that they need to succeed in life. Teachers at vocational schools generally have degrees in education with additional training in a particular subject. For example, a teacher working with student mechanics would have mechanical training, whether through formal studies or work experience. An instructor in hairstyling would have training and experience in that field, and someone teaching transportation would have first-hand knowledge of that type of work. A degree in education normally takes four years to complete, plus the additional training.

    After they finish their training, vocational teachers can work in private or public schools, for governments, or even for businesses. Salaries begin at about $53,000 per year and can rise to $85,000 with experience. Depending on the type of vocation that the instructor is teaching, the work might be mainly in a classroom or mainly out on the job. It can be physically difficult in some cases, although it usually requires more mental than physical effort.

    Since studying is voluntary after high school, most students in vocational programs want to be there and will try to succeed or at least make a reasonable effort. Post-secondary vocational teachers normally have few behavioural issues to deal with, but it can still be hard sometimes to motivate students. Helping the ones who are struggling with the work can also be challenging. Working as a vocational teacher can be difficult in these ways, although it can also be rewarding. Vocational teachers need to understand students’ needs and adjust their teaching styles and content to suit the people they are instructing.

    Certain times of the year can be very busy for vocational teachers, such as when students are completing exams, but generally, the work is steady from September to April or June. Some schools might close for the summer, but others continue with classes throughout the year. Even then, however, vocational teachers are likely to have extended breaks for Christmas, spring break, and other holidays. The days can be long, especially if the teacher needs to mark assignments, but vocational teachers can often adjust the timing and content of their courses to allow themselves enough time to finish the work.

    Vocational teaching can be very practical, and some teachers might spend much of their time in garages or mechanic shops, showing students certain techniques. Other instructors spend much of their time in classrooms, teaching the theories behind the work. This aspect of the job makes vocational teaching a good choice for people with many different interests. It could be the right choice for you.

     

    Bibliography

    Talent.com. “Vocational Teacher Average Salary in Canada, 2024.” https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=vocational+teacher.

    Taylor, Alison. “Vocational Education in Canadian Schools.” https://www.edcan.ca/articles/vocational-education-in-canadian-schools/.

    Zeman, Klarka. “From High School, into Postsecondary Education and on to the Labour Market.” https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/81-595-m/81-595-m2023004-eng.htm.

  • Get STEM-Inspired Outside of the Classroom with These Activities

    Get STEM-Inspired Outside of the Classroom with These Activities

    Now that summer is closing in, you might be wondering how to continue building your knowledge once classes are over. The good news is, if you have a soft spot for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or “STEM”, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy and learn at the same time that you are outside the classroom.

    In fact, some of the inventions that have made the most impact in our lives were conceptualized not inside the classroom but by being outside with nature. For instance, the Wright Brothers spent a lot of time observing birds in flight to create their invention, which we now all know as the airplane. By watching birds closely and how they soar into the wind and change their wings to turn and maneuver, the Wright Brothers developed the concept of obtaining roll control by warping or changing the shape of a portion of a plane’s wing.

    They noticed that birds soared into the wind and that the air flowing over the curved surface of their wings created lift. Birds change the shape of their wings to turn and maneuver. The Wrights believed that they could use this technique to obtain roll control by warping, or changing the shape, of a portion of the wing. Who knew that mere bird watching could lead to something great?

    Here then are activities outside the classroom which can strengthen your STEM knowledge:

    National Parks

    The best way to immerse yourself in nature is through national parks. You will learn more about the inner workings of the environment and ecosystems. Thankfully, Canada has loads and loads of national parks for you to do that and have fun at the same time by hiking, swimming, white water rafting, biking, and so on. Be reminded that if you do plan to head out to a national park, have an adult accompany you and take all the safety precautions, such as packing a sufficient amount of food and drinks and bringing a first aid kit.

    Botanical Gardens

    If hiking or biking is too strenuous for you (or your adult companion), then taking a leisure walk at botanical gardens is a good alternative, while at the same time, you get up close and personal with a wide variety of plants that are collected for scientific, conservation, display, or educational purposes. You have a long list to choose from of the most marvellous botanical gardens in Canada, including the Vandusen Botanical Garden in Vancouver, BC; the Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton, AB; the Assiniboine Park Conservatory in Winnipeg, MB; the Montreal Botanical Garden in Montreal, QC; Memorial University Botanical Garden in St. Johns, NL; Kingsbrae Garden in St. Andrews, NB; and the Toronto Botanical Garden in Toronto, ON.

    Workshops in Communities

    Of course, learning STEM outside the classroom doesn’t always have to involve nature. There’s a plethora of STEM-focused workshops funded by non-profit organizations that cater to kids who are passionate about STEM. For instance, the Hospital for Sick Children or simply SickKids conduct workshops for communities (by request) which include hands-on experiments plus a wide range of demonstrations. All the tools are provided by these organizations, so you wouldn’t have to worry about bringing your own.

    Museums, Science, and Technology Centres

    Canada’s certainly now lacking when it comes to museums and science and technology centres that can bolster your STEM know-how. The Science World at TELUS World of Science and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, both in Vancouver, BC in Vancouver, BC; the Montreal Science Centre in Montreal, QC; the Manitoba Museum in Winnipeg, MB and the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto, ON, all provide insightful and delightful science-centred activities for kids of all ages.

    STEM Kits

    You can also increase your STEM knowledge right at home through STEM kits such as the LittleBits Inventor Kit, perfect for kids aged 8 and up. This kit allows budding inventors to further study their potential, but it comes with a high price tag. For more wallet-friendly options, there’s the Kiwi Crate for all ages that allows you to build a project based on the instructions provided. If you’re more for technology and coding, Tech Will Save Us is the ideal option, and you’ll learn how to build a synth. If you’re more wired for electricity, the Basic Electricity kit is the one for you.

    Now that you know there are plenty of ways to boost your STEM knowledge outside the classroom, are you ready to get inspired now? The world awaits your great idea.

    SOURCES

    https://www.dawn.com/news/1297127

    https://www.todaysparent.com/family/activities/best-botanical-gardens/

    https://www.engadget.com/2019/05/09/best-blended-stem-kits/

  • My Co-Op Experience: Where Friendships Are Made by Ascenza

    My Co-Op Experience: Where Friendships Are Made by Ascenza

    Written by Ascenza

    A few summers ago, I was able to experience and work in an environment that truly inspired me and my future endeavours. I spent my summer working and doing a co-op placement at a summer camp. As a grade 11 student going into grade 12, a student who was and still is dedicated to spending time with children and youth, I was more than happy to spend my summer Co-Op experience working as a camp counsellor. I was placed at an arts and crafts camp where I was working with campers that were ages 6-8 years old.

    During my placement, I was able to help the campers create art that expressed their inner feelings, and I taught them about the different aspects of art. This experience allowed me to weigh the positives and negatives of working with children since I have always wanted to pursue a job in education. There were, of course, more positive experiences, such as the one-to-one relationships I made, seeing the effect I had on the children and learning the importance of building relationships with the children and the other workers.

    The most memorable part about the program was the welcoming environment that the centre had instilled in the workers and even the campers. I was working with a group of people who were dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic about their jobs, which inspired me. My placement allowed me to meet many new people who have been inspiring role models for my future.

    During my placement, I was able to learn how to better interact with children, create lesson plans and build better communication skills. These skills are perfect for my future since I plan to pursue a career in education. Not only was the working environment friendly, but it was also a beautiful building. Towards the end, it was hard to leave the amazing staff and campers until I was offered a job and got to stay the rest of the summer! Being able to get a credit while doing one of the things I love the most, being with children, has really influenced me and has opened my eyes to many other opportunities. The staff, campers and building will always have a special place in my heart, and I recently got hired for a March Break counsellor position and worked 1:1 with a Reach for the Rainbow camper. During my placement, it may have seemed like the campers were learning from me, but in the long run, I was the one who learned the most. I want to thank everyone who allowed me to come out of my shell and who has helped me grow into a passionate person, friend, and camp counsellor.

  • Career Profile: Etchers and Engravers (French version available)

    Career Profile: Etchers and Engravers (French version available)

    A bracelet, a ring, or etched picture can be a nice gift, especially when it is made personal. Etchers and engravers use their artistic skills to write words or draw pictures on metal, wood, rubber, or other materials. For people with artistic skills and steady hands, the job of etcher or engraver can be a good choice.

    Educational requirements for people in this trade vary, but a high school diploma is usually enough to get a job. High school courses in English and mathematics can be useful, as well as any type of course that helps students learn to use their hands. Some employers might want etchers and engravers to take courses at a trade school, but not always. Taking courses in fine art, jewelry, or similar subjects can be helpful.

    Besides this training, special courses in etching and engraving can be useful. In Ontario, Alberta, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories, trade certification is available but not required. The Society of Canadian Painter-Etchers and Engravers is a good place to find information on current requirements and other questions. Getting support from other people in the trade is also useful, especially since the work can often be quite solitary.

    Much of the work of an etcher or engraver is learned on the job. Some employers prefer to hire people with experience in the trade, and so getting a summer position or a part-time job in an engraving shop can be useful. Often, shopping malls have small stores where this kind of work is done. Larger stores or tourist shops might also have work. Even factories sometimes hire etchers and engravers to work with company logos and other jobs.

    People in this trade need to be both creative and precise. Sometimes, customers come with exact designs that they want, but sometimes they need help with ideas. Creativity and patience can help people in this trade to work with the public. The ability to follow directions is also essential. Physically, this trade requires good eyesight with or without glasses and a steady hand. Being able to use very delicate tools is important.

    As people age, they might find the work too difficult, and they might want to move to the design side of the job. Generally, salaries start at about $44,000 and can eventually reach $94,000 per year.

    Normally, the work of an etcher and engraver is indoors, where weather is not an issue. However, people’s backs and hands can become sore, and their eyes can become tired. Working with customers can be stressful, and it is important to be patient. Being able to work with colleagues is necessary in some cases, but being able to work alone, often for hours at a time, is also useful.

    As in many other trades, keeping up to date is important. Reading about the latest design trends, tools, and other issues is essential for keeping current. Even after the initial training, some people in this trade might want to take extra courses to make sure that they know as much as possible about their work.

    Working as an etcher and engraver can be a good choice for people who are both creative and attentive to detail. If that describes you, this trade might be something to consider.

     

    Bibliography:

    Best Accredited Colleges. “How to Become an Engraver: Education, Training and Career Information.” https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/how-to-become-an-engraver-education-training-and-career-information.html.

    CareerOne Stop.” Etchers and Engravers.” https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/careers/occupations/Occupation-profile.aspx?keyword=Etchers%20and%20Engravers&onetcode=51919400&location=SAn%20Diego,%20CA&lang=en.

    Edward P. Taylor Library & Archives Special Collections. “Society of Canadian Painter-Etchers and Engravers. http://atom.ago.ca/index.php/society-of-canadian-painter-etchers-and-engravers.

    Glassdoor.ca. “Engraver Salaries in Canada.” https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/engraver-salary-SRCH_KO0,8.htm.

    Simon Fraser University. “Laser Cutting and Etching: Media and Maker Commons.” https://www.lib.sfu.ca/facilities/make-create/maker-commons/tools-spaces/laser-cutting.

    Statistics Canada. “National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011.” https://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p3VD.pl?Function=getVD&TVD=122372&CVD=122376&CPV=9472&CST=01012011&MLV=4&CLV=3.

  • Tree Planting as a Summer Job

    Tree Planting as a Summer Job

    The most common summer job field for teens is the food service industry, followed closely by the retail trade industry, according to the American Bureau of Labour Statistics. That means that most of us spend our summers flipping burgers or folding t-shirts, honest work that feeds and clothes the capitalist masses. But for some, the call of consumer culture falls on deaf ears. 17-year-old Sam Krawec has decided to earn his summer income while serving a greater purpose: tree-planting in Northern Ontario.

    Sam is a freshman in St. Francis Xavier University’s Development Studies program. He has always been environmentally conscious, thanks to a family that values sustainable living and global citizenship. “My mom inspired me to care about the world when I was very young,” he explains, “I always felt that it was important to give back.”

    By planting trees, Sam will be helping to filter pollutants from the air, reducing carbon dioxide levels in a community and producing healthy oxygen in a renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable way. Summer tree planting jobs generally coincide with the planting season; between six and eight weeks beginning in early May and ending in late June/early July. The average worker ends up planting upwards of 20,000 trees in that time, making a substantial impact in removing large quantities of the major greenhouse gases involved in global climate change.

    Tree planting is ‘piece work’, wherein you are paid according to the number of trees you produce. This means that the income you earn is a direct reflection of your productivity. In Ontario, agencies generally pay planters between 8 and 12 cents per tree, with first-year planters averaging between $2500 and $5000 in gross pay for the season. This varies depending on several factors, including whether or not your agency is unionized. Unionized agencies typically have better health and safety options, and may pay slightly more. The Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace Association produces written packages to educate planters on their health and safety rights.

    Joanna Gillies of Lakehead University compiled “A Qualitative Pilot Study of the Physical Demands of Tree Planting”, outlining them as specific areas of concern for anyone wishing to apply to a tree planting program. She claims that “factors affecting a planter’s performance include flexibility, grip strength, balance and agility, back strength, hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, strength endurance, mental toughness, aerobic fitness, and body fat percentage.” There are tests online to see if your general health is cohesive to the demands of life as a tree planter. If so, you are ready to start digging and making a difference in your environment.

    For Sam, every little bit he can contribute is worth the physical demands and summer-time commitment. “The pay is good, and it’s something tangible that I can do to help the planet. The world is a beautiful place, and I want to have a positive part in maintaining that”.

    If you are interested in working with a tree planting agency, check out http://www.replant.ca/.

  • Summer School: Why It’s Worth Your Time

    Summer School: Why It’s Worth Your Time

    Although the thought of spending a beautiful summer’s day inside a dark classroom while others are lounging at the beach may sound less than appealing, in the long run, taking summer school may actually prove to be one of the best decisions you will make while at college or university. Here’s why:

    1. Finish your degree in less time

    On average, it takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree. However, many students are now taking an extra year to finish their degree, which allows for a less stressful and demanding course load each semester. Having said this, there is a way to keep the stress level down without taking an extra year to complete your degree. By taking two courses per summer, you can complete your bachelor’s degree in just four years, while taking a manageable four courses per semester during the school year. By opting to cut your course load by just one class a semester (and instead take these classes during the summer), you can increase your free time while at the same time decreasing your stress. In addition, taking just two classes each summer means that you will still have extra time to get a part-time summer job, go on vacation, or just relax!

    2. Smaller class sizes

    If you’ve ever been one of four hundred students in an introductory psychology class, you know that quality one-on-one time with the professor is hard to come by. Although teaching assistants are usually made available via email and office hours in larger classes, it simply doesn’t compare to the valuable one-on-one direction and assistance of the professor, which is usually an integral part of smaller classes. The smaller size of summer school classes also provides greater opportunity for group work and interaction with fellow students. Depending on whether you prefer to brainstorm in groups or to work solo, this may or may not be seen as a benefit. Furthermore, professors are generally more lenient with due dates and the formalities of the class, and lectures are much more laid-back in summer school. With a more relaxed atmosphere, classes are less daunting and more enjoyable.

    3. Shorter course durations

    Many summer school classes are concentrated into four or eight-week sessions, making it the perfect time to get the more tedious classes over and done with in a relatively short amount of time. Or, on the other hand, if you want to take a class that you have a greater interest in, summer school allows for an intense focus on the subject matter. This may seem slightly paradoxical given the shorter duration of summer classes, but the greater amount of group work and one-on-one time with the professor means that you can discuss the subject matter in greater depth and hopefully gain a better understanding of the material. And, as stated before, taking fewer courses of shorter duration means that you can still have a fun and relaxing summer while at the same time working towards finishing your degree in less time!

  • Summer Jobs – Are They Useful?

    Summer Jobs – Are They Useful?

    It’s summertime again, and besides gasping for that first breath of summer freedom and that thing called a “social life”, it also means looking for a part-time job.

    So what is the ideal summer job for you?

    Ask yourself what area of work you are interested in, or what skills you think are essential for a certain career. For example, many careers involve people skills – dealing with customers in a daily face-to-face environment. Becoming a cashier or waiter would be an opportune job for developing your communication skills.

    Perhaps you are interested in management? If you have any tourist hot spots in your city, getting a job within tourist areas and understanding how the tourism industry operates could be a beneficial summer job! Don’t let the thought of having to start at a lower-level position scare you away from a good experience; being able to understand how a company works from the ground up can improve your understanding of management.

    Perhaps engineering is your cup of tea? Getting a job at a retail technology store would be ideal. Previous Niagara Falls resident Zachary Edmonson spent a couple of months in the summer acquiring knowledge working in an Apple tech support company before heading off to Sheridan College in Oakville.

    “Acquiring the technological knowledge and customer service skills, as well as working independently, was a priceless experience for what I am looking to do,” Zach said.

    Understanding the reality that nationwide budget cuts have diminished the number of jobs available to students is essential when hitting the summer job market.  Be creative; even “typical” teenage jobs like fast food can be a great learning experience.  Many large fast food companies have intramural sports teams and volunteer opportunities that increase job value and learning experiences

    Current Brock student Heather Long is volunteering at an after-school program called “When I Grow Up,” where she is learning how to deal with different types of children.

    “I set the room up and organize days for the kids, like ‘physics’ day and ‘musician’ day,” Heather said.

    She usually supervises 12-13 kids between herself and one other employee. Learning how to work with children will benefit Heather in her future career as a teacher.

    There can be time for some fun in the sun, but manage your time wisely! It is never too early to think ahead about what skills you think will boost your resume and get you your dream job.

  • Making the Most Out of Your Summer Vacation (French version available)

    Making the Most Out of Your Summer Vacation (French version available)

    As the weather gets reliably warmer and the assignments begin to die down, you have probably realized that the school year is coming to a close. If you’re a post-secondary student, it’s likely your break is just around the corner; if you’re in high school, you’ve got just a couple of months to go. That in mind, start thinking about how you’re going to spend your time on vacation.

    It may seem great to have all that time on your hands, but it’s important to use it wisely. Being out of school for a few months can cause your brain to get a little lazy, which unfortunately means that the cramming you did for finals isn’t going to stick unless you keep at it. You worked hard for the better part of the year, so you definitely don’t want that knowledge to go to waste.

    Of course, there’s another side to summertime that doesn’t focus on academics. You can use the time to advance your goals, practice your hobbies or just explore. Think of how little free time you have during the school year: aren’t there so many things you wish you could have done? Capitalize on your summer vacation to cross some things off your bucket list.

    There are many ways you can make the most of your summer. Here are some suggestions.

    Summer employment is a good way to gain work experience, as well as make some money (which can be particularly important for those of you heading into post-secondary). A job can teach you responsibility, time management, and work ethic. If you’re looking for something humanitarian or more relevant to your career goals down the line, consider applying for an internship or volunteering for an organization you love.

    We all have something that makes us tick, and summertime can be a great opportunity to practice your hobbies (or develop new ones). If you’re looking for a challenge, try something new—you have a few months to take a class or follow a self-coaching program in an activity you’ll enjoy.

    If you have the opportunity, travelling, exchanging, or a road trip with some friends is a great way to explore (and take advantage of the lovely weather). If travel is not financially or logistically feasible for you, take some time to explore where you live. There’s sure to be a unique restaurant you’ve never eaten at or a fun event you’ve never checked out.

    Think about setting goals for the coming year, and take the opportunity to get a head start. School may seem ages away at the start of the summer, but free time (regrettably) goes fast. If you think ahead, you’ll be at a great advantage once the new semester begins.

    And finally, don’t forget to relax. School’s out, you worked very hard, and you deserve some time just for you. Take a break and live your summer on your own terms—you’ve earned it.

  • Summer Job Hunting (French version available)

    Summer Job Hunting (French version available)

    If you’re a student (and especially if you’re going through midterms or summatives), you’re likely looking forward to the break the warmer months will bring. However, summer vacation is also a great opportunity for work experience – not only to make some money, but also to gain valuable connections and references for future employment. If you’re interested in both of those things, spots fill up fast, so it’s never too early to start your summer job hunt.

    Here’s a step-by-step process on how to find a summer job.

    1) Figure out what you want.

    What kind of position are you looking for? Moreover, what kind of position are you eligible for? Consider both your past qualifications and what field you’d potentially like to get into. It might be difficult to get a summer job that’s directly related to your career goals, but if you do find one, it’s one more thing to put on your resume. (For example, if you’re thinking about a career in medicine, it might be a good idea to check out receptionist or data entry positions at a clinic.)

    2) Revisit your resume.

    If you’ve been busy with schoolwork, it may have been a while since you dug up that old resume, so make sure all of your qualifications are up to date. If you’re planning on applying to multiple jobs (which is what you should be doing!), you should create different versions depending on the position you’re looking for. Cover letters are usually helpful, but not all employers require them; check that out on a case-by-case basis.

    3) Do your research.

    Keeping in mind Step 1 (what you want) and Step 2 (what you have to offer), check out the jobs that would be realistically available to you. If you don’t have a lot of experience, you may not be able to aim too high, but it never hurts to ask whether there are positions available for less experienced candidates (or, specifically, for students). Some good resources for job hunting are Talentegg, Workopolis, Service Canada or even Kijiji, as long as you do a background check on the employer.

    4) Apply en masse.

    Unfortunately, not every employer you contact will call you back (wouldn’t that be nice!). Don’t be afraid to apply for too many positions—in fact, apply to as many things as you can or as you are eligible for. This is going to take a lot of work, but put effort into writing emails, tweaking your resume, and following up for various positions. The worst thing that could happen is that you don’t get the job. Don’t get discouraged: you just have to keep at it until you’re rewarded.

    5) Land an interview.

    With hard work and a little bit of luck, you’ll hopefully be called in for an interview. Be your charming, professional, and qualified self, and you’ll have a summer job in no time. Best of luck!

  • Finding A Second Home at the Hospital: My Summer Volunteer Experience

    Finding A Second Home at the Hospital: My Summer Volunteer Experience

    By Maryam Sheikh

    Over the summer, I had the opportunity to become a volunteer for my local hospital. This experience has allowed me to grow in many ways, and I’m immensely grateful that I have been able to give back to my community within the healthcare field.

    In this article, I will elaborate on the application process, training, roles, skills, and experiences that come with volunteering at the hospital.

    Firstly, at my local hospital (Credit Valley Hospital), you must be 15 years old to apply. The application includes a series of questions about why you want to volunteer, the skills that would make you a suitable candidate, and some personal information.

    If you move on to the interview round, you meet with the volunteer coordinators or youth team leaders to learn more about the position, and so that they can learn more about you.

    If you hear back, you’re given a placement! You’re required to attend an orientation in which you learn about different hospital procedures, codes, and protocols.

    I personally chose to volunteer in the Cancer Centre as a TLC volunteer. After a few training days, I became more comfortable with the healthcare professionals, fellow volunteers, and finding my way around the large facility. August, for me, consisted of 5 weekday morning shifts for about 3 and ½ hours. My role entailed helping visitors find their destinations, assisting with patient discharge, and visiting patients to provide company or help them purchase food.

    At first, the experience was definitely a bit nerve-racking; it took a few days to become completely familiar with the layout of the hospital (Credit Valley is huge!). After becoming comfortable with everything, though, it became an extremely rewarding experience. I found it fulfilling to sit down with patients to simply hear about their days or learn about their experiences. I got to meet new people every single day, and I became quite familiar with some patients and looked forward to talking to them every day.

    Volunteering at the hospital is a great experience, but it comes with its fair share of responsibility as well. Your priority as a volunteer is to provide the best and safest experience as possible for any patients or visitors that come in. You must learn how to be conscious of your surroundings, responsible on your shift, and sensitive to the different people that you interact with. Volunteering definitely develops communication skills and responsibility!

    The summer quickly came to a close, and I definitely knew I wanted to come back in the fall. Now, I volunteer in the Gift Shop, helping stock products, keeping the shop tidy, organizing the back room, and working on cash. I’ve met so many new volunteers and gained a bit of retail experience. All in all, Credit Valley Hospital has become a place that I have a deeper appreciation for; there is a lot of work done by all those that work there in order for patients to have as smooth experiences as possible.

    If you’re a student interested in healthcare, learning about a new field, or even just lending a hand and cheering people up, I would definitely look into volunteering at your local hospital. I guarantee that you will walk away with a deeper knowledge about the healthcare field, a stronger passion for helping others, and great people, such as fellow volunteers, as well as patients to call friends.