Student Testimonials

What previous Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students have to say about the program:

"The deliverables for work plan and academic plan were well aligned."

"It was a chance to see what a professional environment/ workload was, as well as to gain insight into the field and what knowledge bases are required for it."

"It provided tangible research, presentation, and policy development skills."

"I learned to apply my skills in a professional environment."

"I think that I developed a lot of valuable skills; becoming familiar with the inner workings of municipal government, adaptability and flexibility, communication, public speaking, disciplined thinking in the work environment."

"I participated in tasks, collaboration, and a work environment similar to my desired future work environment after graduation."

"I added my position title and responsibilities to my resume, as well as a certification that I received during training."

"It allowed me to broadly explore municipal government as a viable career option, even through I would like to explore a different department within municipal government in the future."

"I really enjoyed the work that I did with the City. I was impressed to learn about so many of the projects that planners were undertaking in order to help make the city a more inclusive space - including actions of reconciliation and addressing unequal power dynamics. I learned a lot in this applied study and I hope to seek further employment at the City of Lethbridge when I graduate."

"This work experience provided insight into the various positions and roles within the civic sector."

"Working at City Hall gave me the chance to collaborate with other students in a different cohort and work closely with my workplace supervisor."

"I didn’t feel like just a student when I was working at the City. There were extremely high levels of trust instilled in the students (which I have never experienced before in a workplace) which helped me to also trust in my own work. I also enjoyed having a space to work (I.e., going into the office every Friday) as I found it nurtured the collaborative nature of the project."

"My experience was very beneficial (and fun!) and I learned a lot …it was an absolutely fantastic experience!"

"I was able to translate my academic skills to a business or policy world, work on a tighter deadline, and imagine possible career opportunities."

"The position gave me more confidence in my skills and my ability to gain new skills. I also gained networking skills and team skills."

"I think this experience boosted my confidence and made me realize that what I have learned in University is a valuable skillset."

"Yes—it has solidified that I am more interested in pursuing academics, which I think is still a very valuable experience! It did challenge me to think about how my academic work might translate to a hands-on setting, which I think is a very important perspective to hold onto."

"I think it is fantastic that the Prentice Institute is sponsoring opportunities like this one."