By Claire Frank, Inclusion Coordinator
Over the past 10 months, I had the opportunity to complete my social work placement at Renison University College as Inclusion Coordinator. In this role, I was given the freedom to shape the placement to my learning needs. Renison supported me as much as I supported Renison. This supportive environment set the stage for my future career endeavours.
Fall semester was a whirlwind. Although jumping into the hang of things was not easy, the organizational structure provided by my supervisor, Stefany Kraft, helped me excel in learning about the institution and the different positions held, and gave me a basis for what types of social work skills I would develop here. The rest of the staff were also very nice and welcoming, always answering any questions I had. During this time, it was important for me to make myself known at Renison as a student staff member, so I would take strategic walks through the cafeteria to say hi to students and perhaps a faculty member. This part of my adventure taught me how to work with the students I oversaw and what the expectations were for the groups they would run. I had to ensure everything was done on time and that programming was engaging.
After my role was clarified, I was able to make myself fully known. By the winter term, I was hosting events on my own and had gotten student engagement down to a casual conversation rather than a semi-forced one. This semester also highlighted the difference I can truly make as a person. I saw one of my students grow into university life as I supported her through her social anxiety, giving her hope and a sense of belonging. I also found a passion for creative output when working with things, which led me to explore art therapy methods I could use non-invasively with students to help them open up to me. I also took a course on Institutional Organizations and analyzed how we could be more inclusive at Renison, applying decolonizing theories learned in class to real-life practice.
The spring semester was easier but slower. I focused on organizational wellness by both participating in and hosting staff events. It started with our co-op lunch, where I brought my creativity and unique questions to get the group of us talking and getting to know each other better. Most recently, I hosted a social for faculty and staff members, under the guidance of my supervisor. I had a lot of fun presenting food and participating in games to bring wellness practices into the workplace. This term was also essential, as I was able to guide and show the future Inclusion Coordinator the expectations, organize the physical media I have created over the past year, and mentor her in her first interaction as a new Inclusion Coordinator for the upcoming school year. This is essential, as I wasn't given a fully hands-on onboarding, so it is nice to give that back to the next community changer.
Looking back, my time at Renison University College has been both rewarding and enjoyable.
Not only did I have fun building connections with students and staff through creative programming and engaging events, but I also gained invaluable experience that has shaped my understanding of social work in a real-world setting. Each challenge taught me something new, and every success reinforced my passion for supporting others. I leave this placement with a deeper sense of confidence, a stronger skill set, and many fond memories that I will carry forward into my future career.
