SEXUALITY, MARRIAGE, AND FAMILY STUDIES
St. Jerome’s University at the University of Waterloo
What Can You Expect From Practicum?
Working in human services can be emotionally challenging at times. Practicum offers the opportunity to bridge between academic training and the application of this knowledge in a hands on environment, while still retaining the benefit of being a student supported by the knowledge and experience of the professor to guide you.
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SUPPORT
As a practicum student, you can expect a great deal of support from both the professor and your classmates. Each week there is a check in period to share both the accomplishments and challenges that came up during the week at your placement.
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Shared Experiences
Students benefit from hearing about each other’s placement experiences as this creates a broader sense of how human service agencies work independently, as well as together, to support individuals in the community.
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Research
There is an academic component to the courses. Students will write research papers that facilitate learning how theory and research apply to front-line work.
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Practical Experience
While at their placement, students have the opportunity to work alongside staff, in a paraprofessional role. In the past, students have had the opportunity to develop and facilitate programs, participate in staff meetings and training opportunities, co-ordinate and run fundraising and community awareness events, provide direct support to service participants, and so much more.
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Civic Participation
As a process-oriented space, the in-class seminar helps students to identify and develop professional skills and explore ethical considerations involved in working in human services.