I'm Heather MacKenzie (she/her) and I'm the Executive Director of Solar Alberta. 

What is your role at your organization?

As the Executive Director, I am the spokesperson for the organization so I do a lot of public speaking and a lot of presentations. Media and government relations tend to be my areas of focus, but also a lot of admin work. I do a lot of spreadsheets! Mostly for financial management, making sure that we have our annual budget and that we're on track to meet our revenue goals and don't go over on expenses. I also do all the hiring of staff and firing of staff, so staff management and HR is kind of my baby as well. As a non-profit, we are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. I do a lot of work with the Board of Directors, making sure that their policies are in order and that we have the direction we need to execute our goals. Generally, I get to oversee everything and make sure that we're executing on our Mission. 

We also have three staff right now (four, including me) and a few contractors that I manage and do payroll for. We have a couple different contractors, like teaching contractors and others who are quite regular with us working on website development and all that jazz. I have staff who are working very hard to do public education and community building with both industry as well as solar enthusiasts or micro-generators. I also have a new staff member who's doing a lot of consumer protection work and vetting our business members to make sure that they're enhancing the reputation of the solar sector. So, just making sure that all of that work is on track and supporting them in any way I can. It's a lot of different hats, but I have a lot of help and many hands make light work. Every day is a little different and I do love that about my job.

Can you trace your involvement with the CSL Program?

I started at Solar Alberta in 2020 and we started collaborating with CSL in 2021. We've had many rounds now of CSL students and also Non-Profit Board Interns (NPBI) and it's been amazing. We actually ended up hiring an intern from our first batch of CSL students full time. She stayed with us for three years after that so that was pretty cool. She transitioned from that program to an Eco Canada internship that we were able to establish for her. That was really neat to see through and was good exposure to the program. 

Our president, Preet, works more closely with the board interns so I see them mostly at board meetings. However, this year, we ended up with a CSL student from the Faculty of Law, and I ended up working with her directly because the project we had her working on was very different from our other CSL projects. This project was related to our advocacy work and specifically asking the question, ‘why hasn't anyone sued the Government of Alberta for all the discrimination against renewable energy?’. Since I lead our government relations and advocacy work, I decided to work with that student very closely. We just finished up her report and it is excellent. I’m really looking forward to sharing that with our members. It was nice to be back in the CSL mix this term myself. 

Why did you choose to incorporate CSL students into your organization?

A big part of it was just the fact that, as a non-profit focused heavily on public education and advocacy, we do a lot of communications work. CSL students are very well written.

They often have a lot of experience in communications, especially if they're coming from sociology. We really put them to work on helping us connect with members of the public on different topics. We were really drawn to students who knew how to write well. We also don't want people who are just going to go on Chat GPT and give us something that's inaccurate. If we're going to post something as an authoritative source, we need to make sure anyone who's writing for us can actually properly cite their research. If they're drafting a blog post for us, for example, we need that to be correct. It was attractive to us to have students who had experience in communications, research, knew how to do citations and help us maintain our professional image.

Most students were also coming from a class that was focused on the environment. It's really important for us that we're working with people who are environmentally oriented and that we're helping them chart their course in the work world from an environmental perspective. 

What do CSL students learn in their placements? 

Part of our work with CSL was to benefit us, but part of it is also for those students to get a look inside the green NGO sector and the solar industry and to see what's out there and where their skills might be relevant. We've tried really hard to find tasks for students to give them insight into the different players in the space. This helps them determine where they’d fit best in a future workplace, whether it's in the NGO space that we operate in or in the industry space who we serve. I wish more students did this before entering the workforce – they need to learn about themselves and their strengths!

On the other hand, students who come through the NPBI program get a whole other set of skills. There are many different types of boards in this world. Some of them are policy governance boards, like ours, where they're managing through policy and they set direction through that policy and then have staff execute it. It's really helpful for these students to see what a board should look like because often, people get out into the work and volunteer world and they end up serving on these boards. If they've never seen a high functioning policy governance board, they won't even know where to begin. It's really good for them to see, “oh, this is what a consent agenda is”, for example, and it really makes meetings go faster. Then they can focus the discussion on the more contentious issues. It's very useful. 

When I completed my first master's degree, I came back to Edmonton and I decided to run to serve on the Edmonton Public School Board. I served there for three years and was pretty successful and that was how I got to witness how a policy governance board operates. It was trial by fire, you know, jumping right into the fray. I wish that I had had an opportunity to do something like CSL or NPBI when I was a student at the U of A. It wasn't offered when I was there and it would have prepared me well for my future role on the Edmonton Public School Board and my work today. It's really wonderful that these programs have been developed since my time at the U of A. I think it's valuable for both parties too, which is the best part of the program. You're both learning and helping each other, which is amazing. 

Have you had any interesting or good stories about CSL students you’ve worked with?

We had one NPBI student, Marika, who ended up helping put together an onboarding package and board handbook. It lets us onboard our new board members every year quickly and efficiently and gives them a great sense for the organization. They have a one-stop-shop now for where all the documents are and to understand what everything is, how we run a meeting and stuff like that. She went above and beyond because she happened to be a graphic designer. We were very short staffed at that time as well so she was willing to draft up some nice posters for us. We're still promoting our Rise up for Renewables lawn signs, stickers, and advocacy campaigns today that are based on her graphic design. That was really special and has helped boost our advocacy and our professionalism. Since then, we have had the resources to bring in some staff who have some of that capability, but she was our first look into someone who actually knows how to make a proper poster so that added a lot of value. Her formal project for NPBI was the board handbook so she just offered her design skills voluntarily out of the goodness of her heart. That was very, very sweet of her.

Since then, other students have built on that and improved upon it and that's been wonderful. We have also had a couple CSL students continue to volunteer with us even after the term ends! A couple of them have applied to work here as well. They didn't always get the job but the fact that I got to see that they were still interested and that we built that relationship is really nice and I hope they'll continue to apply in the future. We only have four staff so we can't hire everyone but it was nice that they had a good enough experience that they weren't shy from applying for work as well!

What advice would you give to CSL students looking to work in the nonprofit sector?

Most organizations won't even look at a resume if there is no evidence that you care about what you’re working on. They're wanting employees who will stick. If they're going to invest in you, they want to know that you really have a passion for the work because otherwise, there's such high turnover in the sector. When they see that people have actually done some concrete volunteer work in this space, they're much more interested in those candidates because they believe they'll be more committed. This is true for non-profits, but it's also true for industry and municipal offices. A lot of our volunteers have transitioned into working for cities, towns or counties on environment portfolios. I think that their volunteer work has been something that helped them stand out in a crowded field of applicants. I find a lot of students, especially CSL students, are less likely to land in industry than they are to land in a policy type job because that's where their skills tend to lead towards. U of A grads in particular are moving more towards the Alberta government or municipal service it seems. Public service is where I've noticed them filtering into more or the non-profit space. I feel like the nonprofit sector is expanding so quickly now that there's lots of opportunities there, so that's awesome. 

What have you learned by being involved with CSL?

What I've learned more broadly, instead of highlighting one specific skill set, is just the incredible benefit we see to our organization from collaboration with post-secondary students in general. Our positive experience with the U of A has actually led us also to bringing on a capstone student from the University of Calgary, working with students from Grant MacEwan, and now trying to figure out how to work with Norquest students. I would say CSL has really inspired us to consider how we could work with post-secondary and collaborate on some really important work. It's been nice to lean into that and to see where we can go. It allows us to go above and beyond, especially when it comes to research. Unfortunately, as much as we would love to research, that is just something we don't have a lot of time for, so getting students in the mix to help with that has been wonderful. A lot of university students are willing to help, especially when they're more in the arts side, which is where most (but not all!) CSL students are coming from. It's awesome when their skills can be used.

If you can, sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence.

My name is Jennifer Toro (she/her) and I’m a double major in Political Science and Modern Languages and Cultural Studies with a focus on Latin American studies... Plus a minor in Sociology. I know it’s quite the mouthful — don’t get me started on my certificates, I just really love to learn!

How did you first get involved with CSL? 

I first got involved with CSL because I wanted to connect my academic learning with real, tangible community impact. It was important to me to reflect my faith through my actions and share that sense of care and community with others.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why?

I am completing the certificate! The certificate drew me in because it offered structured opportunities to engage meaningfully, reflect critically, and learn beyond the classroom.

Which CSL placements have you completed?

My CSL placements have been wonderfully varied. For my MLCS courses, I worked with Sombrilla translating materials to support their academic initiatives in Central America. I also transcribed and analyzed colonial texts for the library, and volunteered with U School, doing some translating there too — not just with language, but also with understanding and context. For both credited and non-credited placements, I did supportive admin work with the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS).

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

My favourite placement, hands down, has been with the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (clearly, because I just keep coming back to work with them!). The team there, led by my supervisor Janet, is incredible — she remembers every participant’s name. It may seem small compared to everything else EDSS accomplishes, but it makes a huge difference. Even though I'm not the best with names myself, seeing the impact of putting in the effort to learn and remember them has strengthened my understanding of identity theory in my coursework. It’s been amazing to witness how small, thoughtful gestures can ripple outward and truly touch people’s lives.

How has CSL impacted your academic and/or personal life? Did it change your ways of thinking about certain things?

CSL has deeply shaped both my academic and personal life. It's shown me how much the classroom can be enriched by real-world application, and it’s taught me patience, empathy, and the power of community. It's challenged me to rethink what service means, how learning can extend beyond the page, and how even small contributions can create meaningful impact.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

My name is Jerick Bryant Nucum (he/him) and I am doing a Co-op Bachelor of Commerce majoring in finance and minoring in accounting.

How did you first get involved with CSL? 

Initially, I was just trying to fill out my classes but I also needed something for my resume to get an internship because it is very hard and competitive. So I said you know what, I'll try CSL because I'll get to volunteer while finishing some electives for my degree.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why?

Yes I am. I really liked the first CSL class that I did, CSL 100. I liked the placement and I had more classes to fill, so I figured why not just do the certificate. Apart from that, I also wanted to do it because it was very meaningful to the community, I would say. I also wanted to build that bridge between business and the community. I think it’s very important and closely aligned with my values.

Which CSL placements have you completed? 

CSL 100 was with the Catholic Social Services. CSL 200, I was partnered with the West End Senior Activity Center. I also did CSL 370 in the spring semester and learned lots about Indigenous culture. Then CSL 350 was with Dr. Peacock, the director of CSL, and we were partnered with ECVO. I’ll be doing my last CSL class in the spring, taking CSL 370 again but with a new theme!

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

I really liked the first one I did in CSL 100, it is for sure what got me really into CSL.

I was placed with the Catholic Social Services helping with Afghan refugees at a hotel in the north of the city that many were staying at. I was playing soccer with them, teaching them a bit of English and other knowledge like world flags. I didn't even know most of the flags really so I was learning as I went, searching up new flags. But it was one of my favourite moments because I was with the kids and I found it very meaningful to teach them!

How has CSL impacted your academic and/or personal life?

Academically, it kind of opened my perspectives, especially with how I can contribute to group projects. When someone presented an idea, I started to think about what would happen if certain communities got affected.

But personally, it just made my program feel more meaningful. I learned that I prefer meaningful community work as opposed to the standard that is sometimes set. I just like helping, I like volunteering with other people. It inspired me to go to volunteer in an NGO in Peru this summer.

I’ll get to use my degree and knowledge in business to help them with their finances and more generally with their organization. I’ll also get to help kids again with learning English and sports and stuff. I never would have thought of that without CSL!

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How so?

Well initially I thought volunteering was something I just needed for my resume but now I would say it's just more of who I am. I realized I really like volunteering, especially in my downtime because you can make special connections and network with other people and you gain more perspectives. It is mutually beneficial, and it can make your life more meaningful and fulfilling. Plus, I just like meeting new people so I don't mind volunteering, especially at such a young age. I've always wanted to interact with different organizations to see how their business works and how they contribute to everyday life and I enjoy helping people in the process. 

Hi, my name is Andy Pham (they/them) and I'm currently a 4th year Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Food and Society.

How did you first get involved with CSL? 

My first introduction to the CSL program was through my AREC 173 class which I didn't even realize at the time had a CSL component. I remember my placement was with the Campus Food Bank and I was in charge of making a social media campaign that involved promoting their campus kitchen program, which has unfortunately since been decommissioned. I also helped with raising awareness surrounding food insecurity on campus  as well like the recipes from the campus kitchen program and such. I found it really enjoyable!

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why?

Yes I am. So after my AREC 173 class, I actually looked for other CSL classes and in doing so, just stumbled across the certificate. Part of it, of course, is that I get a nice shiny piece of parchment when I graduate but the other part is that I really like the applied theory aspect of the CSL program. Other university classes teach you a lot of theory within the classroom but we don't have a lot of opportunities for  hands-on experience in applying these theories into our local community. So after AREC 173, I started thinking if there were any other courses or resources where I could continue to give back to the community in Edmonton? That's when I looked through the CSL course catalogue, saw what was available and actually noticed there was a lot of overlap between my degree requirements and the CSL certificate. So I decided why not, right?

Which CSL placements have you completed? 

The CSL placements I have completed are AREC 173, SUST 202, SOC 291, and CSL 100.

I plan to take one more course or a non-credit opportunity before I graduate. I worked with the Campus Food Bank for AREC 173 like I mentioned. For SUST 202, I was with CAWST which is a Calgary-based nonprofit engineering firm that works on affordable water access and resources for everyone globally. In SOC 291, I had the opportunity to work with Solar Alberta, which is a nonprofit advocacy group for the proliferation of solar energy adoption in Alberta.

The latest one I did was CSL 100, where I had the opportunity to work with the Multicultural Health Brokers, which is a local nonprofit that helps newcomers to Edmonton with any resources they need to settle in and integrate to Edmonton and, more broadly, Canadian society. I remember I helped with their Food Hampers program, where our goal was to tell the story of the program and people behind it. We highlighted what goes into the program, the logistics behind it and who is involved. A lot of the volunteers were seniors or retired Edmontonians who were also finding a way to give back to the community.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

I think out of all four, my favorite would be CSL 100 with the Multicultural Health Brokers. My passion has always been content creation and media.I always find it meaningful to use it as a medium to convey stories to a wide range of audiences. I find digital content videos to be more emotive and a better medium for storytelling than any posters or photos alone. I also appreciated the freedom and trust that MCHB and the volunteers granted me to tell their stories. Especially because to them, I’m just a random university student who's coming in for a brief  three to four months and leaving pretty much immediately after. It was also really fun to see different aspects of life and how those coming to the nonprofit were finding creative ways to be adaptable to the landscape of food insecurity and navigating this massive unaffordability crisis. Imagine coming to a new country you've never been to before and you don’t even know where you can buy food, drinks or other essentials. So to have those shared resources be accessible to everyone through this organization is just so awesome. 

How has CSL impacted your academic and/or personal life?

I think for my academics, it definitely broadened the context of the different sociological theories, models and frameworks that I've learned in class and just provided a much better context for them. CSL is kind of like a real-world case study of how these theories play out. What is an established framework in the textbook might not be quite applicable in the real world when faced with different geographic, demographic and economic elements. 

In my personal life, I think it has made me a much more conscientious citizen and member of the community. Through my placements, I have learned that not everything is as it seems. In one of the placements, I had the opportunity to visit Edmonton’s Chinatown which has this reputation of being a dangerous place with many unhoused people. But through the CSL placement, I understood that it is a much more complex issue. There are actually efforts by community members to restore Chinatown in making it a more safe and accessible place for all. At the end of the day, everyone is a living, breathing human being who has the right to live, eat and enjoy life just like you and me. It definitely brought me a different perspective on how to best give back to the community. Especially, for example, if you’re walking on Whyte or Jasper Avenue and then someone asks if you have spare change or to buy them some food or a coffee, you might feel conflicted. To you, two or three dollars might not mean much but to them, it's the difference between starvation and having a meal for another day. So it definitely changed my way of perceiving the world, especially the community around me.

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How so?

I would say it has challenged my current position of privilege because I'm very fortunate to be able to afford university tuition at a good educational institution. My degree focuses a lot on the concept of intersectionality and how different people have different struggles and challenges. What I face as a person might not be the same as others. So CSL has taught me to be more mindful of that when approaching not just my daily actions, but also the opinions and conversations that I have. Not meaning that I have to be more restrictive or take a position of skepticism or cynicism, but more to just approach the world with sympathy first. The term this reminds me of is ethics of care, or prioritizing interpersonal relationships and respect. Being aware of my own privileged background and circumstances definitely made me more willing to help every bit that I can. For example, I know the Campus Food Bank has a Feed a Family program where you can help a family for almost the same cost as your regular Netflix subscription which is just much more impactful. So overall, CSL has definitely changed my ways of approaching my everyday life and pushed me to use my privilege to give back to the community that I actively live in. 

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Stephanie Weizenbach (she/her) is the Executive Director with Nature Alberta 🌿

What is your role at your organization?

As the Executive Director of a relatively small but impactful team, I work with our staff to implement our programs, publish our Nature Alberta Magazine, and collaborate with and support a network of 50 grassroots nature organizations all across the province.

Can you trace Nature Alberta’s involvement with the CSL Program?

We've done a number of different class projects with a couple of different post-secondary institutes and they're all super valuable but I think it's been over a year that we've been involved with the UofA's Community Service Learning program. We've been just really excited to have the input of students and be able to work with people of different backgrounds and studies, it's been very helpful to our team.

Why did you choose to incorporate CSL students into your organization?

Well, it's very valuable for us to have an outside perspective, or a perspective of someone who has maybe never even heard of our organization. It's incredibly valuable for us to hear their opinions about Nature Alberta and our programs, and what they think we can do to reach a wider audience. That's been a large focus for us and a point of great potential for our organization so having that ‘thinking outside of the box’ sort of perspective has been hugely valuable for us.

What have CSL and CSL students added to your organization?

So CSL projects and students have added the ability to really come at an issue with a different set of knowledge and a variety of specialties. For example, our staff are very knowledgeable in biology and working with non-profits whereas the students have brought in business backgrounds or some of that marketing perspective. It has given us a really good understanding of some of the audience that we might be trying to connect with and looking at some very important details of our work through a different lens and expertise.  

What have you learned by being involved with CSL?

I've gained a great deal of understanding about working with students. Getting that collaborative approach through a post-secondary institute has been a very helpful experience that has taught me new and different techniques to connect with different audiences, especially across generations. As someone who was in the university campus realm quite a while ago, things look a little bit different now. It's been very helpful to hear from university students as to how to connect with audiences such as university students and keeping up with the trends. Keeping up with the change is a challenge so having the students’ input is immensely helpful.

Have you had any new experiences from the CSL program? (Any interesting/good stories about students?) 

In the Winter 2025 semester, we had CSL students do a project to help us get ready and plan for our 55th anniversary event. The students did a lot with background research and our marketing strategy for hosting the event this past September. It was helpful because I was able to take that background research and suggestions from them and use that to really inform our process of putting together our anniversary fundraising event. It was hugely helpful to have all of that background research done to inform that process to have a successful event. Because of that, we were able to take into consideration a number of different pieces that were researched by the students. And the event was a wild success!

If you can, sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence.

Rena Seol (she/her) is in her 4th year of a double major in sociology and psychology.

How did you first get involved with CSL? 

I did an internship at the Science Internship Program (SIP) where I worked as the Communications and Program Support Intern. I did resume and cover letter reviews for many students and a lot of them had a CSL certificate on their resumes. I actually asked my boss what it was and she explained it to me which sparked my interest. I thought it seemed like a really interesting way to engage with my community, but also to put something unique on my resume as well! It's like killing two birds with one stone. 

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why?

Yes, I am! I think initially it was for my resume and to help with professional development. But after taking some CSL courses and learning more about non-profit organizations, I realized I really wanted to get more involved with my community. I live just outside of Edmonton in Spruce Grove and realized I didn't know my community that well, which was weird because I've been a resident there for eight years! I figured I could use the non-credit opportunity component of the certificate to volunteer somewhere in my community while also getting that development. Again, two birds with one stone!

Which CSL placements have you completed?

My first placement was in CSL 100 with the African-Canadian Civic Engagement Council (ACCEC). They are an organization in Edmonton whose main goal is to help provide resources and programs to support the African-Canadian population within Edmonton by providing funding and scholarships. They also regularly hold events that are informative and inspirational. My first placement was helping set up those events and then writing a report on them, which would detail how well they went and what could have been better.

In CSL 200, I was placed with the Canadian Centre for Ethnomusicology within the University. Within that department, there was a professor who was hosting a program for a group of women called Binti Tucheze in Kagoma, Tanzania. We had different tasks we had to do for this organization like building their website and social media presence on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter). We also had to research scholarships and funding opportunities for them to continue the program. Overall, it was a partnership that helped young women in Kagoma express themselves through the power of dance, music and drama.

The third one was in CSL 350 with ECVO which is an organization that provides resources, training and networking for membering nonprofit organizations. Our placement was a collaborative project with the entire class, which was a valuable experience because it helped me learn how to work efficiently with a large group of people. We helped write a report on ECVO’s Membership Engagement Event, which we had the pleasure of attending! Working with ECVO helped me understand non-profit organizations from a broader perspective and learn a bit more about the structure of how they work. 

I’m currently doing Writing Studies (WRS) 210 for professional communication. In this course, we help an organization write up professional communication materials that they can use in the future.

I'm also doing my non-credit opportunity by volunteering with the Friends of Spruce Grove Public Library (SGPL). They hold events to help fund the local library, such as book sales and movie events once every couple months. My main job is to promote and set up those events. I've also been tasked with taking statistics from the annual reports and putting it all into an article for the local newspaper as a marketing and advocacy tool. I will also help build a database for their archives and establish a communications plan in the near future.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

I think my favourite would be the African-Canadian Civic Engagement Council (ACCEC) because I actually got to go there and attend the events hosted by the organization. It was also really cool because I learned a lot about the history of anti-Black racism within Edmonton specifically. It was interesting because it was less passive participation and more actively educating myself about why organizations like ACCEC might need to exist. It was also just a great way to build connections and I met a lot of interesting people from a myriad of backgrounds. This experience felt more impactful because we got to hear about the perspectives of the Black community in Edmonton so intimately. 

How has CSL impacted your academic and/or personal life?

In terms of academics, I’ve done a lot more meaningful collaborative group work through my CSL courses. The group work projects I had outside of CSL were more just assigning our individual parts and doing small occasional check-ins. Instead, CSL courses just feel a lot more tight-knit because you're working closely with your peers and constantly communicating with them about project updates over a longer period of time. I guess it just kind of changed my perspective on group work and productive collaboration. 

In my personal life, it made me change my perspective on non-profit organizations and made me realize that I do enjoy community engagement. Truthfully, I didn't contribute to my community before in a way where I was truly involved or interacting with people. It was just more like donating to the food bank. But it’s so fulfilling and nice to do tangible work in the community. It was always something that was in my periphery, but CSL pushed me to actually do it.

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How so?

This idea of ‘non-profit,’ almost seemed way bigger than I was or not something I could engage with in a meaningful way. Through CSL, I realized that ‘non-profit’ and ‘community’ could just mean the people next to me or people who live within my neighbourhood. It made me okay with starting with smaller, more incremental goals like helping the individuals who are closest to me in the community I am already a part of. 

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Eva Sharon (she/her/hers) is a 4th year Psychology student in the Faculty of Arts 🧠✨

How did you first get involved with CSL?

I originally started with the Non-Profit Board Student Internship Program program (NPBI). I had looked into it over the years of my degree and was worried it would be too busy for my schedule, but then I was like, you know what? Let's try it!

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why?

I am, actually. I decided on the certificate because I really like helping people, working in different communities and volunteering so I figured why not do the full certificate? One thing that was blocking me from pursuing it in my earlier years was whether I could fit in the class requirements. In my later years, I realized I did actually have enough space to do it so I talked to the coordinators here and I figured it out!

Which CSL placements have you completed?

I did NPBI with Metro Cinema Society which was my non-credit opportunity. 

In CSL 100, I was placed with the Edmonton Food Bank which was really cool. We helped make hampers and deliver them to people. I also got to go on the big food trucks to do pickups which was really cool.

Then with Modern Languages and Cultural Studies (MLCS) 210 I did my placement with U-School which is on campus. It’s a program that brings in students from elementary and junior high for a week to do activities on campus and learn about university. It was really cute and awesome!

Currently, I’m in PSYCH 329, Adult Development and Aging, doing my placement with Capital Care. It’s a senior centre but with an Alberta Health Services influence, giving it a medical/clinical aspect to it too.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

I wouldn't say I had a favourite, I really liked them all for different things! My NPBI placement on the board of the Metro Cinema was a really special experience. I got to see a lot of the behind the scene work and help out. It was cool and the people were awesome. I think the Edmonton Food Bank was also unique – I had never been on one of those massive trucks before! U-School was wholesome too because the kids were amazing and the staff were great. Lastly, although I’m new to Capital Care, I think it's really interesting getting to connect with seniors but from a health perspective, so I’m looking forward to it.

How has CSL impacted your academic and/or personal life? 

I've always really liked helping people and volunteering in general. CSL gives me an outlet to do that through school with it also counting for credit, which is very convenient! It also helps me find new places I've never heard of before. I didn't even know certain communities existed that I could help or be involved in.

CSL is convenient because it’s part of a course so they find opportunities for you. It’s easier to access them, as opposed to applying for a volunteer position from scratch. You kind of get a little extra leg up. 

Also, you're not just going to do your hours and be done, you actually learn from the community and you bring it back to the classroom and other areas in your life. You learn different perspectives that you wouldn't really see in a university setting which is really cool. 

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How so?

I think so, especially CSL 100. I didn't really think too much about how the university and local communities are separated. CSL 100 made me think about how not everyone has access to university. I think this is something people know, but don't really think too much about when they actually go to university. These placements also taught me that there are other ways to learn than just through the classic classroom education system. You can learn a lot of things and new knowledge from other places too!

Do you have an important or memorable lesson you learned from CSL? 

Yes! That not all organizations are ready to go yet. I learned from my NPBI placement that some organizations are still in a constant state of learning and you have to learn how to adapt with them. You might go into it thinking they know what's best, but they actually like to hear your opinions and are open to input. Since they are also still in the works and are unsure about some things, you actually feel more comfortable in the space. Sometimes they open up to you saying they actually also don't really know the answer to a question yet and it makes you feel okay for not knowing things. This ultimately makes you feel more connected to the staff and the projects you are working on together.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Quinn Tilling - 4th Year Environmental Studies Major

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Quinn Tilling, I use she/her pronouns, and I’m in my fourth year of the BA Environmental Studies program at the University of Alberta.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course?

When I first learned about CSL, I thought it was such a unique opportunity for experiential learning. I’ve always been interested in applying what I learn in the classroom to real-world situations, so the idea of community-based learning really appealed to me. My first CSL course was AREC 173, which focuses on food scarcity and food security. I wanted to see how these concepts actually affect people in everyday life, so it was exciting to get involved beyond theory and understand these issues at a community level.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why did you decide to do that?

I’m not yet officially enrolled in the CSL Certificate, but that’s definitely the plan! I think it’s one of the most valuable opportunities available at the University of Alberta because it provides something tangible to show for your community engagement. The experiential nature of CSL sets our university apart; it allows students to gain hands-on experience, connect theory with practice, and make a real impact while building professional skills.

What CSL placements have you completed?

I’ve completed two CSL placements so far. My first one was through AREC 173 with Prairie Urban Farm, located on the South Campus. I helped develop outreach and advertising materials that promoted the benefits of urban agriculture and supported grant applications. It was a creative and collaborative experience, and I loved getting to work directly with the team, especially during the fall harvest!

My second placement was in SOC 291 with Pesticide-Free Edmonton, an advocacy organization focused on raising awareness about the risks of pesticide use. Alongside another Environmental Studies student, I created an educational fact booklet on the impacts of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides, both on wildlife and human health. We also consulted Indigenous communities and local wildlife rescues, and our goal was to encourage the University of Alberta to stop using these harmful substances on campus.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

That’s a tough choice because I loved both! Working with Prairie Urban Farm was amazing, especially since I’m passionate about food security and my sorority’s philanthropy focuses on addressing food insecurity. But if I had to pick, I’d say my placement with Pesticide-Free Edmonton was slightly more meaningful. I’m very interested in wildlife conservation, and tackling a long-standing issue like rodent poison use was challenging but rewarding.

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How?

Absolutely. Both of my placements showed me how complex social and environmental issues really are. They taught me that no problem exists in isolation; there are always layers of political, social, economic, and environmental factors involved. It helped me understand that meaningful change requires collaboration across different fields and perspectives.

What was the most important or memorable lesson you learned?

The biggest lesson I learned is that not everything is black and white. The theories we learn in class are useful, but applying them in the real world often looks very different. Working in the community helped me see that learning doesn’t end in the classroom; you have to practice those skills, adapt them, and sometimes even question them when faced with real-world complexities.

Did CSL expose you to new experiences and knowledge? How and what?

Definitely. CSL introduced me to real-world environmental and social advocacy work and gave me experience in project coordination, communication, and collaboration with diverse community partners. I learned how to organize meetings, balance different priorities, and engage respectfully with communities, all essential skills that traditional lectures don’t always teach.

How can CSL help you in your career or future endeavours?

CSL has helped me build valuable professional and interpersonal skills, especially communication, organization, and adaptability. It’s also deepened my understanding of how environmental studies intersect with policy, community development, and social justice. I know these experiences will be incredibly relevant as I pursue a career in environmental advocacy, policy, or sustainability work.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Weam Omar - 4th year Psychology Major and Sociology Minor

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Weam (she/her), and I’m currently a fourth-year student at the University of Alberta, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course?

Honestly, CSL was first recommended to me by a friend who said it was a good GPA booster. But after actually taking CSL 100 last year, I ended up loving it for a completely different reason. I really connected with the idea of community engagement, it wasn’t just about earning credits, but about doing something I genuinely enjoy: volunteering and getting involved in meaningful projects.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why did you decide to pursue it?

Yes, I’m currently completing the CSL Certificate. I decided to do it because it aligns perfectly with what I’m passionate about: community work and volunteerism. I also plan to pursue a career in social work, so I feel like the CSL Certificate really complements my Psychology degree and strengthens my future applications.

What CSL placements have you completed, and which was your favourite?

I’ve completed three CSL placements so far. In CSL 100, I volunteered with REACH Edmonton as a survey ambassador for YEG Resource Connect, a large event where local nonprofit organizations share their services and community needs. My role was to collect surveys and engage with participants. In PSYCO 329 (Late Life Development and Ageing), I volunteered at Choice Restorative Services, working with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and therapy assistants to help seniors manage pain and mobility. It was my first placement directly related to my major, which made it extra meaningful. Last but not least, in CSL 370 (Topics in Community Issues), I worked with Boyle Street Community Services in collaboration with SNAP Edmonton, where our class designed posters and flags for the new King Thunderbird Centre. We also learned about the history of the Boyle-McCauley area and the importance of preserving Indigenous culture.

My favourite was definitely CSL 370, because I learned so much about community resilience, Indigenous culture, and reducing stigma around homelessness. It was truly a multifaceted experience.

Did CSL change the way you think about certain things? How so?

Definitely. CSL has amplified my sense of empathy, especially toward marginalized groups. It helped me shift from making quick judgments to taking time to understand people’s stories and perspectives. Through courses like CSL 370, I learned to approach situations with more compassion and awareness, asking questions like “Why is this happening, and how can we help?” rather than making assumptions.

What was the most important or memorable lesson you’ve learned through CSL?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to appreciate being a learner. In CSL 370, our syllabus literally said, “Appreciate being the learner,” and that stuck with me. It reminded me that it’s okay not to know everything; learning is a process. You can be both the student and the teacher, learning from others while also sharing your own experiences.

Did CSL expose you to new experiences or knowledge?

Yes, absolutely. CSL has exposed me to many new areas, especially civic and community engagement. Through the certificate program, I developed a strong interest in social policy and gained a deeper understanding of how communities and nonprofit organizations function. I also learned so much from my classmates, who were incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about these topics. Plus, I learned a lot about Indigenous communities and the importance of cultural preservation, something I hadn’t explored in depth before.

How do you think CSL will help you in your future career?

CSL has given me practical skills that will help me both personally and professionally. I’ve learned time management, communication, and teamwork, but most importantly, I’ve gained the confidence to take initiative. My CSL experiences even helped me land my current part-time job; being able to list volunteer experiences and community projects made my résumé stand out. CSL has genuinely helped me translate academic learning into real, employable skills.

How would you sum up your CSL experience in one sentence?

Ms. Elyse Wood, Supervisor for the Braided Journeys Program, Edmonton Catholic Schools

What is your role at your organization?I am a supervisor for the Braided Journeys program, which is part of Indigenous Learning Services in Edmonton Catholic Schools. We currently operate in 16 school sites across the city, from elementary to high school, where our staff support self-identified Indigenous students academically, culturally, and emotionally.

Can you trace your involvement with the CSL program?Our involvement with the CSL program began nearly a decade ago, around 2014 or 2015. Over the years, we’ve had CSL students provide tutoring and academic support for our junior high and high school students. In addition to tutoring, some students have also worked on resource development projects and attended professional learning sessions with elders and cultural facilitators, depending on the timing of their placement.

Why did you choose to incorporate CSL students into your organization?We saw a real need: our students require additional academic support, and our staff can’t be experts in every subject area. By partnering with CSL, we’ve been able to bring in university students, many from the Faculty of Education, who can provide targeted tutoring while gaining hands-on community experience. It’s a mutually beneficial partnership that helps our students learn and helps CSL students grow as future educators and community leaders.

What do CSL students learn in their placements?CSL students gain a wide range of skills, including project management, session planning, and time management. They learn to research, design, and deliver engaging academic sessions and build strong interpersonal relationships with Indigenous youth. Many also develop cultural understanding and adaptability by working across different backgrounds.

For education students, placements provide valuable exposure to classroom realities, everything from understanding graduation pathways and transition supports to learning how to modify teaching strategies based on students’ needs.

What have CSL and CSL students added to your organization? CSL students bring enthusiasm, energy, and a youthful presence that resonates deeply with our high school students. Their academic support has made measurable impacts. One school reported that thanks to CSL tutors, 50 students improved their grades during the 2024-2025 school year, with Grade 9 students benefiting the most.

Several CSL students have continued volunteering beyond their placements, demonstrating their commitment to the community. Their presence inspires our youth and reminds us of the meaningfulness of mentorship.

What have you learned by being involved with CSL?For me, coordinating with CSL has strengthened my leadership and organizational skills. I’ve learned how to better match students to placements that fit their skills, interests, and location while ensuring they receive a valuable learning experience. For our staff, having CSL students has fostered collaboration, delegation, and mentorship, important leadership skills in education and community work.

Have you had any new experiences from the CSL program? (Any interesting stories about students?)One of our most memorable experiences was when a CSL student worked one-on-one with a high school student who was just a few credits short of graduating. That extra support helped the student complete their coursework and successfully graduate.

Another example involved a CSL student who taught study strategies to a Grade 12 student in a way that finally “clicked,” helping them re-engage in learning. Our staff also love watching future teachers face challenges, adapt their tutoring styles, and ultimately connect deeply with students. It’s inspiring to see that growth happens in real time.

Tarra Gunther, North Regional Manager for Free Play for Kids

What is your role at your organization?

My name is Tarra, and I am one of the Regional Managers and also the Volunteer Coordinator for Free Play for Kids.

Can you trace your involvement with the CSL Program?

I work closely with the CSL office to onboard students and support their placements. I communicate with universities, help students find convenient locations for their placements, and mentor them throughout their experience. Currently, we operate in 24 elementary schools across Edmonton, making placements accessible to students. I also help students connect their work with their academic studies, showing them how our programs relate to broader health and social concepts.

Why did you choose to incorporate CSL students into your organization?

CSL students bring energy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. They assist as coaches, help implement our curriculum, and provide a positive, supportive presence for children. Their involvement allows us to expand our programming and provide consistent adult mentors while also giving students meaningful hands-on experience in community work.

What do CSL students learn in their placements?

Students learn how to build rapport with children of different ages (grades 3–6), create safe spaces, and foster social-emotional learning. They gain experience in leadership, communication, empathy, and adaptability, all while working with children from diverse backgrounds, including many new-to-Canada families. They also see how small steps, like teaching a new game or providing encouragement, can make a big difference in a child’s confidence and development.

What have CSL and CSL students added to your organization?

CSL students enhance our programs by assisting in coaching, leading activities, and contributing fresh ideas. They model positive communication and leadership skills, helping to create a safe, inclusive, and fun environment. Many students build strong relationships with participants and often extend their volunteer hours or return as paid assistant coaches, creating a lasting impact on the children’s lives.

What have you learned by being involved with CSL?

I’ve learned that students bring incredible energy, creativity, and heart to our programs. Watching students connect with children and see the impact of their presence reinforces the importance of mentorship, consistency, and representation, especially for girls and underrepresented groups in sports.

Have you had any new experiences from the CSL program? (Any interesting/good stories about students?)

Absolutely! Many students develop such strong connections with the children that they often continue volunteering even after their required hours are completed. The kids have so many thoughts and emotions they want to express, and it’s both funny and heartwarming to watch students navigate that and build trust. For example, some kids are shy or hesitant to speak at first, but over time, the CSL students become supportive adults they can rely on. Seeing students learn how to respond with patience, empathy, and creativity, and the bonds they form with the children, is truly inspiring. These experiences give students a deeper understanding of leadership, communication, and the impact of consistent mentorship

If you can, sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence.

Nicole Wang - 4th year Criminology Major

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Nicole Wang, my pronouns are she/her, and I’m in my fourth year of Criminology at the University of Alberta.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course?

I found out about CSL through a class presentation in my first year. I’d done some volunteering back in high school, and CSL immediately seemed like a great opportunity to continue learning about community organizations while also getting involved in something meaningful. It looked like a lot of fun, and a terrific way to meet people and learn outside the classroom.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why did you decide to do that?

Yes, I’m currently completing the CSL Certificate! I decided to pursue it after a semester when I was taking CSL 200 and SUST 202 one semester. I really enjoyed both placements and met many peers in Criminology who were also pursuing the certificate. Some of them were older students, and I could see how CSL helped them build transferable skills that were useful for work and grad school applications. In CSL 200, we even had a class on identifying transferable skills and connecting them to our resumes. The course also drew upon engaging and socially relevant theories, which we got to reflect on and discuss with fellow students. Overall, I’d say that the CSL certificate offered structure and guidance on how to best engage and learn from community service. 

What CSL placements have you completed?

My first placement was in CSL 100 with Catholic Social Services. I was paired with a new immigrant mentee through the mentorship program Links for Success. We practiced English conversation and explored some places in Edmonton. My goal was to connect with someone who is adjusting to life in a new place. As a student, I liked having an older mentee with different life experiences than my own. In MLCS 210, a classmate and I did a project with Sinkunia Community Development Organization. We gave presentations on topics related to cultural studies to youths of various ages and participated in hands-on events like gardening and cooking. A highlight was preparing for the year-end celebration with our supervisor, the kids, youth folks, parents, and grandparents. I learned some wonderful recipes and enjoyed spending time with this vibrant community. In the new year, I started two placements with the Campus Food Bank. One was in an office volunteering role with CSL 200, where I got to work with our shift team in supporting clients. The other was a CFB project through SUST 202, where we researched plants to grow in garden planters and South Campus plot. 

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

My time with CSL has added great memories to my undergrad experience. I’d say my favourite was the placements with Campus Food Bank. I got to practice skills such as repackaging food items and helping clients navigate the grocery store like setup. I met a lot of wonderful peers and continued to volunteer here. In the research project, it was fun learning about plants and what was practical to grow. I related CFB programs to various Sustainable Development Goals, and connected CSL theories to non-profit case studies. Together, they gave me a fuller picture of community work and the many ways to make a difference on campus.

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things? How?

Yes, absolutely. CSL prepared me for Field Placement. It provided experience working in teams, coordinating with supervisors, and reflecting on real-world projects, all key professional skills. CSL demonstrated that community involvement isn’t just showing up as a volunteer; it’s also about learning, reflecting, and growing together. I’ve learned to appreciate the process of collaboration and how every small contribution adds up to something meaningful.

What was the most important or memorable lesson you learned?

CSL gave me new perspectives on sociology topics from my studies. It felt meaningful applying knowledge to the local community. It also taught me to balance volunteering and coursework, which turned out to be great preparation for my field placement this year. 

Did CSL expose you to new experiences or knowledge? How?

Definitely. I’ve learned so much about nonprofit structures and teamwork. I’m currently doing a non-credit opportunity with the Campus Food Bank. Admin is a new role that has allowed me to practice professional communication and engage with clients. As I gained more experience in the office role, I got to familiarize with CFB operations and procedures. I appreciate the opportunity to gain proficiency in tasks and a deeper understanding of the organisation. 

How can CSL help you in your career or future endeavours?

CSL connects closely with Criminology as both aim to understand people, systems, and communities. In methods courses SOC 418 and 415, we partnered with local organisations in conducting research, building skills for my future studies and career. CSL inspires me to pursue meaningful work that connects with my values.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Evelyn Pham - 5th year Psychology major and East Asian Studies minor

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Evelyn Pham (she/her), and I'm currently in my fifth year of a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in East Asian Studies at the University of Alberta.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course? Are you completing the CSL Certificate, and what made you pursue it?

I was initially looking for volunteer opportunities, and that’s how I discovered CSL courses. I really liked that they included an embedded community placement as part of the learning experience. I decided to take CSL 100 first, and that’s when I learned about the CSL Certificate.

Since Psychology also offers some CSL component courses, I took a few of those as well. After completing two or three CSL courses, I realized I was already close to finishing the requirements, so I decided to pursue the certificate. I actually completed all the CSL Certificate requirements last spring after taking CSL 370.

What CSL placements have you completed?

My first CSL placement was with YRAP (Youth Restorative Action Project). In my Psychology courses, I did placements with Connecting Seniors with Care and ASSIST Community Services, where I helped tutor ESL youth. For CSL 370, we partnered with Boyle Street Community Services, which gave us great exposure to real community-based work. I also did CSL 200, where I worked with Envirothon, helping them set up for their event and create materials.

Which placement has been your favourite, and why?

My favourite was definitely ASSIST, because I got to interact directly with the kids and apply what I was learning in class; it was a developmental psychology course, so the hands-on experience made everything much more meaningful. In some earlier CSL courses, I chose online placements since they fit better with my schedule, but doing ASSIST in person was really rewarding. It gave me a chance to build real connections and see the impact of my work.

Did CSL change your way of thinking about anything?

Definitely. CSL changed the way I view classroom education. Before, I sometimes felt unsure how my degree would connect to the real world; it felt very theoretical. But once I started taking CSL courses and volunteering in the community, I could actually see and apply what I was learning. That connection between classroom theory and real-life experience made my learning much more engaging and meaningful.

What was the most important lesson you’ve learned through CSL?

One big lesson I’ve learned is not to be afraid to reach out, whether it’s for help, guidance, or opportunities. The professors and community partners I worked with were all so supportive and approachable. I also learned how valuable it is to combine hands-on learning with academic learning. That mix helped me develop confidence, understand my coursework better, and reflect deeply on my own experiences.

Was there a memorable or inspiring moment from your CSL experience?

Yes! When I was tutoring kids learning English through ASSIST, many of them spoke Mandarin or Cantonese, so I could communicate with them in those languages. They started calling me “older sister,” which was really sweet. Some of them would ask me questions about university, like what courses to take or what careers to consider. One girl even asked if I knew any university programs where you don’t have to take tests at the end, which made me laugh because I don’t like tests either! Those interactions reminded me how even small moments of mentorship can really make an impact on younger students.

Did CSL expose you to new experiences or knowledge?

Absolutely. Through my placements, I gained a better understanding of how nonprofits operate, how community programs are structured, and what kinds of needs exist within our local communities. I also developed practical skills like teamwork, communication, and project planning, all of which go beyond what you learn in lectures. CSL definitely expanded my perspective on learning and gave me more confidence in applying my Psychology degree to real-world contexts.

How do you think CSL will help you in your future career?

Since Psychology can lead to many different career paths, CSL helped me figure out which types of work I enjoy most, especially those that involve community engagement and social impact. The volunteer and project experiences I gained will be really helpful in both my career and graduate studies. CSL taught me how to work effectively with diverse groups of people and reflect on my own growth, which are valuable skills in any field.

How would you sum up your CSL experience in one sentence?

Olivia Shocrylas - 4th year Sociology and minor in Business

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Olivia Shocrylas, my pronouns are she/her, and I’m studying Sociology with a minor in Business at the University of Alberta.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course?

Honestly, I was in my first year and didn’t really know what I wanted to do with my degree or with my life yet. My brother had heard that CSL courses were really fun and interesting, and although he hadn’t taken one himself, one of his friends told him that Professor Jay Friesen was an amazing instructor. That inspired me to try out CSL 100, and I ended up really enjoying it, so I just kept going from there!

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why did you decide to do that?

Yes, I’m currently completing the CSL Certificate. I decided to go for it because I had already taken several CSL courses and really enjoyed working in the community. It felt meaningful, and I thought: Why not have something to show for all that experience? The certificate also helps me reflect on how much I’ve grown through these placements.

What CSL placements have you completed?

My very first placement was through CSL 100, but it’s been a few years, so I don’t remember all the details. One placement that really stood out to me, though, was in CSL 200 with The Learning Club, a project that I actually found out about through Lisa and Allison. It’s a program that reaches out to incarcerated women and supports both them and their children, which I thought was incredible. My group worked on creating a learning package for the women. The theme we chose was “Indigenous Peoples of the World.” We designed the materials and sent them to the women in the program, hoping to make their learning experience meaningful and uplifting.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why?

I think The Learning Club was definitely one of my favourites because it felt so meaningful. But another experience that stands out was the Walls to Bridges course (CSL 370), also led by Lisa and Allison. In that class, we actually learned alongside formerly incarcerated women, not just about them. It was one of the most eye-opening and humanizing experiences I’ve ever had. We talked about justice, community, and Indigenous cultures, and it completely changed how I see education and empathy.

Did CSL change your way of thinking about certain things? How?

Definitely. When I first came to university, I had no clear direction or sense of purpose. But through CSL, I started to realize how much I care about helping others, understanding different perspectives, and creating space for Indigenous voices and cultures. The program taught me to be more compassionate, more empathetic, and more intentional in how I engage with the world around me. It’s really helped me find a sense of purpose and direction.

What was the most important or memorable lesson you learned?

I don’t think I can pinpoint just one single lesson, but the biggest takeaway for me is learning how to be a more compassionate and empathetic person. That’s something I try to carry with me in everything I do: in school, in work, and in everyday life.

How can CSL help you in your career or future endeavours?

I think CSL connects closely with the nonprofit sector, which is great because it gives students a clear look into how those organizations operate. If I decide to work in that field in the future, the experience I’ve gained through CSL will be a huge asset. Also, because CSL partners with such a wide variety of organizations, from education to justice to community development, it really gives you the freedom to explore what interests you.

Personally, I’m considering going into law, and CSL has exposed me to a lot of legal and justice-oriented nonprofits. That’s helped me understand the field better before making any big career decisions.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Asha Jama - 3rd year Nursing Major

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Asha, my pronouns are she/her, and I’m in my third year of Nursing at the University of Alberta.

Why did you decide to take your first CSL course?

The main reason I went into healthcare is that I care deeply about equity, justice, and serving people. That passion led me into nursing, but I often felt that I wasn’t making enough impact outside the classroom and clinical settings. I’ve always been involved in community volunteering, even since high school, and I run my own community organizations on the side. Ubora Women’s Initiative - works to empower Black women and girls to be inspired to pursue careers in global fields and give them access to mentors and network to pursue leadership roles, and CAN Initiative - works to create a space for newcomer/immigrant youths to get . A mentor of mine, who had been part of the CSL program, encouraged me to take a CSL course. She told me it would fit perfectly with my passion for social change and equity work. So I decided to try CSL 100 with Professor Randi Nixon, and I loved it! We explored themes around social justice and nonprofit systems. My placement was unique and was with my own community organization, which made the experience even more meaningful. At the end of the course, I was nominated for the 2025 CSLebration, which was such an honour and truly inspiring.

Are you completing the CSL Certificate? Why did you decide to do that?

Yes, I’m currently completing the CSL Certificate, and I have two courses left. I plan to apply for a nonprofit placement next summer and possibly take another class in the winter. Nursing schedules can be pretty strict, but I’m determined to finish both the CSL Certificate and the Certificate in Interdisciplinary Leadership before graduation. The CSL experience offers incredible learning opportunities and helps connect my nursing background to broader community and civil work, which is something I really value.

What CSL placements have you completed?

I’ve completed three CSL classes. One of my favourites was CSL 350, where we worked closely with marginalized communities, particularly individuals facing houselessness in Edmonton. We partnered with local organizations to better understand systemic issues, such as the historical and policy-based causes of homelessness. These experiences helped me see how policy change and advocacy can be just as important as bedside care in creating long-term improvements in people’s lives.

Another class I really enjoyed was through Sustainability 202 with Professor Keltie Gower, where we studied the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). That class opened my eyes to the global connection between health, equity, and sustainability.

What was your favourite CSL placement, and why so?

My favourite was definitely the SUST 202 course. I’m passionate about the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and that class helped me understand the theories and frameworks behind them.

I even had the opportunity to attend the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women Conference in New York as a delegate earlier this year. Being surrounded by diplomats, ministers, and advocates from around the world was life-changing. It reinforced my belief that young people really do have the power to make a difference if we work together for a better world.

Did CSL change your ways of thinking about certain things, and how?

Absolutely. The CSL 350 course especially changed how I view people and social issues around me. Working with individuals experiencing housing insecurities challenged my assumptions and helped me see the humanity and complexity behind their situations. Many people end up unhoused not because of personal failure, but because of systemic barriers, loss of jobs, or lack of support, especially after COVID-19. CSL made me more empathetic, self-aware, and socially conscious, and it reminded me that compassion must go hand-in-hand with understanding and advocacy.

What was the most important/memorable lesson you learned?

One of the most memorable lessons I learned was that real change begins with perspective. I realized that people don’t need to be “saved”; they need to be empowered. Before, I used to think of helping others as “saving lives,” but CSL helped me see that the people we work with already have power, strength, and agency. Our role is to collaborate with them, not act as saviours. That mindset shift has shaped how I approach nursing, community work, and leadership in general.

Did CSL expose you to new experiences and knowledge? How and what?

Definitely. Through CSL, I learned how policy, social issues, and healthcare are deeply connected. I gained hands-on experience working with nonprofit organizations and communities, understanding how long-term change requires both grassroots action and systemic reform.

The program also gave me opportunities to connect with mentors, and lead my own community initiatives and focus on empowerment and education. These experiences expanded both my academic and personal growth in ways I never expected.

How can CSL help you in your career/future endeavours?

CSL has been incredibly valuable for my professional development. It demonstrates to future employers that I go beyond academics, that I’m committed to lifelong learning, leadership, and community engagement. The hands-on projects I completed strengthened my time management, teamwork, and advocacy skills. In nursing, those qualities are essential. More importantly, CSL gave me the mindset to approach healthcare with a community-focused and policy-aware perspective, which I plan to carry throughout my career.

How would you sum up your experience with CSL in one sentence?

Joshua Su - 3rd Year Accounting Major

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Joshua, I use he/him pronouns, and I’m currently in my third year of Accounting in the Bachelor of Commerce program. 

Can you tell us about your involvement with CSL and why you decided to take your first CSL course?

My first CSL course was at the 100-level with Professor Jay Friesen, and it really changed how I see learning. I wanted to find a way to get more involved in my community and to use the skills I’ve learned in my program to help others. Through CSL, I’ve worked with the Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA) in their after-school program. This great opportunity enabled me to step outside the classroom and make a meaningful impact.

Why did you decide to complete the CSL Certificate?

To me, the CSL Certificate is a meaningful roadmap, something that helps me set milestones as I take on bigger community projects. Plus, I loved how it included a non-credit opportunity where you can collaborate directly with local organizations or nonprofits. It’s a structured way to grow your impact step by step, and I felt that was a great fit for me.

What has been your favourite CSL placement and why?

Definitely my first one with the EISA after-school program. It was my first real exposure to working closely with community members from diverse backgrounds, and I got to see how students from different programs could bring their own strengths to one shared goal. In fact, I still keep in touch with some of the program instructors there. That first experience really stuck with me.

What’s one memorable lesson you’ve learned from your CSL experiences?

That there’s always something you can contribute. At first, I was nervous, wondering if I had anything useful to offer. But over time, I realized that you have skills that you can often overlook, like communication, organization, or even empathy, that are incredibly valuable. It taught me that contribution doesn’t always come from expertise, but from willingness and awareness.

Has CSL influenced your academic or personal life?

Academically, CSL changed how I view learning. It’s not your typical lecture-based course. Instead, you discuss ideas in circles and learn from your peers’ perspectives. That interactive format helped me grow both intellectually and personally. On a personal note, I’ve made great friends through CSL, who’ve really shaped my university experience.

How did CSL help you in your career or future goals?

CSL really strengthened my people skills. In accounting or any business field, you can have all the technical skills: Excel, Power BI, you name it, but at the end of the day, you work with people. CSL gives you an environment where you can foster skills like communication and teamwork. These are essential for long-term success. It’s also great preparation if you ever want to work with nonprofits or in community-based business roles.

How would you sum up your CSL experience in one sentence?

Joanne MacDonald - 4th Year Women’s and Gender Studies Major, Art & Design Minor

Please introduce yourself! State your name, pronouns, and program.

My name is Joanne MacDonald, and my pronouns are she/her. I’m in my final year of my Women’s and Gender Studies program, with a minor in Art and Design. Outside of school, I’m a silversmith, and much of my design background influences my jewelry work. I also love to paint draw and garden, and I find that those creative outlets all inform each other. 

Can you tell us about your involvement with CSL and why you decided to take your first CSL course?

I first heard about CSL in my very first year, but I couldn’t fit it into my schedule. In my second year, I took CSL 100 and I absolutely loved it! I especially enjoyed the volunteer aspect, connecting with the community, and learning how nonprofits operate. That experience inspired me to pursue the CSL Certificate, and I’ve been taking CSL courses ever since. These experiences have truly been some of the highlights of my degree at the University of Alberta.

What CSL courses have you taken as part of your certificate?

I’ve taken CSL 100, 200, and 370, which was a Walls to Bridges course, and I’m currently taking another CSL 370 course this term, which takes place inside the Edmonton Women’s Institute. I have also completed an extra credit project with E4C as an ArtStart facilitator, working with underserved children in after-school art programs.

Why did you decide to complete the CSL Certificate?

Having the CSL Certificate on your transcript definitely sets you apart, but more importantly, it deepens your engagement with the community. It’s a big-time commitment, but that also means deeper learning. Through CSL, I’ve learned so much about real-world issues and how to use my skills to make a difference. 

What has been your favourite CSL placement and why?

My favourite placement has been working with E4C ArtStart. It started as a volunteer placement, and then I was hired as a lead facilitator, so it grew from a learning opportunity into paid work. I loved combining two of my passions: community engagement and art, and I also love working with children (I’m a mom myself). It’s been wonderful to use art as a way to help kids build confidence and express themselves.

One memory that stands out to me came from an ArtStart session with a young boy who insisted, “I can’t do art.” He had a veru negative view of his skills as an artist. However, after a few weeks, he proudly held up a watercolor painting and said, “Look, I am an artist!.” That moment stuck with me because it captured exactly why I value CSL; it’s about transformation, confidence, and connection.

How did CSL help you in your career or future goals?

CSL directly led to professional growth for me. I am presently a CSL intern, working with HUM 101. In addition, this past summer, my volunteer work with E4C turned into a paid position. These experiences, and my other volunteer commitments will definitely strengthen my resume. Employers value volunteer work the same way they look at paid experience; it shows commitment, compassion, and a willingness to contribute to your community.

Has CSL influenced your academic or personal life?

Balancing school, parenting, and community work has been challenging, but CSL partners have always been flexible and supportive. It has taught me a lot about time management and how to integrate community service into everyday life. 

How would you sum up your CSL experience in one sentence?