Practical experience in the workplace provides an important step along the path to career success. For many newcomers it can be incredibly challenging to gain work experience in Canada aligned with their long-term career goals.
What is this?
In this program, students gain valuable work experience by working on-campus in select divisions or departments at Columbia College.
The program provides paid externships, during which students offer administrative services and project-based or entry-level support to specific college areas while continuing their studies.
The impact of this program is two-fold:
- College students gain valuable work experience and an opportunity to develop employability skills.
- Newcomers get to explore different roles and tasks, helping build their professional portfolios.
Student Testimonials
"Working at Columbia College enabled me to foster connections within diverse communities and promote access to valuable resources. These experiences not only honed my communication and organizational skills but also deepened my commitment to meaningful, inclusive work and prepared me to contribute effectively in any professional environment."
"My time as an SSPA at Columbia College has been deeply rewarding. I’ve had the privilege of supporting Columbia College’s mission to help students access vital resources through programs like the Community Cupboard, aCCess benefit program and other services. I have seen firsthand how valuable these supports are for students navigating college life. This role taught me the importance of social responsibility and equipped me with invaluable skills in communication and event planning."
"Being an SDPA was an incredibly rewarding experience. In this role, I gained insight into the logistics of administrative work and the background efforts behind CCR-approved opportunities, which help develop essential soft skills. Working mostly remotely allowed me to work independently, and Ginny valued student input, giving me the freedom to manage student programs creatively. This position is excellent for anyone interested in data management and seeking experience in an administrative setting."
"My experience as Columbia College's Social Media Ambassador has been incredibly rewarding and empowering. It allowed me to discover new strengths and take on challenges beyond my comfort zone. This role helped shape my communication skills and has been instrumental in building strong interpersonal connections."
"Working as an SDPA has been an incredible journey of learning and growth. This role deepened my understanding and appreciation of the effort involved in continuously improving Columbia College’s services, such as TEP and LinkedIn Learning, which support students’ academic and professional goals. Managing student data for these programs and the Co-Curricular Record has enhanced my digital skills, including record-keeping, and data analysis. This experience has boosted my confidence, and equipped me to contribute meaningfully to future professional roles."
Previous
Next
EPP Opportunities
- 168 – 210 hours (12-15 hours/week x 14 weeks)
- Assist with daily library operations, including check-in/out and book processing/display, and digitize outdated materials from institutional archives.
- Communication, Collaboration, Planning and Organizing, Knowledge Pursuit, Data Management
- 168 – 210 hours (12-15 hours/week x 14 weeks)
- Assist with daily library operations such as checking in/out, also manage the book processing/display, and contribute to the development and organization of library events.
- Communication, Collaboration, Planning and Organizing, Knowledge Pursuit, Data Management
- 168-210 hours (12-15 hours/week x 14 weeks)
- Assist in the day-to-day management of student records for the Typing Essentials Program, LinkedIn Learning, and Co-Curricular Record (CCR), while also monitoring key metrics to optimize program practices for increased student enrolment and engagement.
- Data Management, Planning and Organizing, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Adaptability, Knowledge Pursuit
- 70-210 hours (5-15 hours/week x 14 weeks)
- Collect, settle, and take down lab materials, prepare and organize specimens/solutions, provide in-person instructional assistance, and update procedures and manuals. Responsibilities may vary depending on the respective lab (Biology or Chemistry).
-
Communication, Planning and Organizing, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Adaptability
- 140-168 hours (10-12 hours per week x 14) weeks
- As part of the Student Services Department, the SSA manages the front desk and department email, provides student information in person and online to the right individual and/or department, also handles record cataloguing and data entry tasks.
- Communication, Data Management, Adaptability, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- 210-280 hours (15-20 hours/week x 14) weeks
- Assist with the preparation, maintenance, and promote of the CC Community Cupboard, create promotional materials for Student Services programs, and provide input for current and future student-oriented initiatives.
- Planning and Organizing, Communication, Technology Leverage, Social Responsibility and Sustainability
- 124-144 hours (6 hours per week during the semester and up to 20 hours per week during the semester break)
- Build and manage connection with all students include new student, work with Student Services staff to develop activities and events in areas such as careers, health & wellness, student life, and social media campaigns to boost CC’s online community.
- Communication, Adaptability, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Leadership Development, Planning and Organizing
- 168 hours (12 hours/week x 14 weeks)
- Work with CC’s Digital Marketing & Social Media Specialist to edit and create content for CC’s social media platforms and promote various student events.
- Technical Leverage, Digital Competence, Communication, Planning and Organizing, Multicultural Awareness and Diversity
More Information
- Must be a current Columbia College student and will be enrolled for the upcoming semester;
- Eligible to work in Canada and must have a valid Social Insurance Number;
- Good academic standing; not on Academic Probation (CGPA 2.0);
- No misconduct record;
- Completed, or in the process of completing, 18 credits; or have an equivalent combination of training and experience;
- Completed, or in the process of completing, ENG 100;
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office is considered an asset.
- Additional requirements may apply based on the specific host department.
- Week 9 of the semester: EPP positions will be posted.
- Week 10 of the semester: Deadline to apply.
Click here to see if any campus opportunities are currently available.
Apply Now!
To participate in a cohort or become a partner, please get in touch with our Student Career Advisor, Ana Albuquerque, at studentcareers@columbiacollege.ca.