International Students gain work experience at Brescia University College

By Jocelyn Lagerquist

When Wing Chi (or Iris as she prefers to be called) came to Brescia University College in London Ontario, from Hong Kong, she was looking for more than an education. Iris was also looking for a part-time job to supplement some of her International Student fees.

Four years ago, Iris enrolled in Brescia’s Foods and Nutrition program, in hopes of pursuing her dreams of becoming a Registered Dietician. Iris was interested in gaining more than just a post-secondary education though. She also wanted to gain work experience in Canada.

“I wanted to enhance my problem solving and communication skills, make friends, and get financial relief,” Iris explains.

While checking her school e-mails, Iris came across one from Brescia’s Financial Aid Officer, Dianne Konings. Dianne’s email outlined a Brescia-wide work study program, designed specifically for international students.

Brescia’s International Work Study Program allows international students to apply for a number of work placements throughout Brescia. The placements can include assisting a professor with research, working with the Registrar’s, or Students Services Offices. Students work no more than 15 hours a week, to ensure their school work is still a priority.

Iris wasted no time filling out the 12-page application form and gathering reference letters from individuals and organizations from whom she volunteered in the community.

Iris was accepted, and has been working as a Brescia Ambassador for the last two years.

Iris has gotten more, from the work study program, than just a bi-weekly pay cheque. “I’ve developed skills from Brescia’s International Work Study Program that I look forward to transferring into my career once I graduate. I will definitely take the communication and problem solving skills that I have into my future work.”