Why hire an intern?

The Workplace Integrated Learning practicum at Western Continuing Studies helps partner organizations tap into new talent.

By Nicole Laidler

At Western Continuing Studies, we know that learning happens inside and outside the classroom. That’s why all seven of our Post-Degree Diploma programs culminate in a practicum placement for each student. Not only does our Workplace Integrated Learning practicum give students the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience in their chosen career, but it also benefits employers too.

Here, two partner organizations share their experience hosting interns from Western Continuing Studies.  

Public Relations interns bring a fresh perspective to Canada Life

Kim Galloway, Manager of Distribution Communications at Canada Life, sees a natural fit between the insurance and financial services company and students working towards their Diploma in Public Relations at Western Continuing Studies. 

“They understand the written word and have experience writing in the digital space and the print space,” says Galloway, who manages a team of 9 senior communications specialists.

With more than 11,000 Canada Life employees nationwide, there is plenty of writing to be done. “We write for two main audiences – advisors and their clients,” says Galloway. Bringing in young people with new ideas helps to keep things fresh. “The students come prepared, curious, and willing to jump right in.”

Galloway and her team have partnered with the Western Continuing Studies practicum program for more than five years. “We run it as a very structured training program,” she says.

"We run it as a very structured training program. The students come prepared, curious, and willing to jump right in."

After learning how to navigate the organization’s internal project management system, interns are ready for their first assignment. Most begin by writing digital articles that Canada Life advisors may send to clients or stream on their website.

“It could be about something simple like how to budget for a pet or an article explaining the difference between a segregated fund and a mutual fund,” says Galloway. Not having a background in finance or insurance may be intimidating at first, but Galloway says it is actually a plus. “Ultimately, we want to tell stories in plain language that any consumer can understand,” she notes. 

"If there is an opening and the person is the right fit, we can hire. It's a win-win situation for all of us."

Interns have access to internal resources and subject matter experts, she adds, and every article goes through a peer-review process before being sent off for approval – and often another round of edits.

“I always say that it takes a full year to learn this role,” Galloway says. “So, if we spend three- or four-months training someone as an intern it’s a nice opportunity to just keep going. If there is an opening and the person is the right fit, we can hire. It’s a win-win situation for all of us.” 

Clinical Trials Management interns a valuable source of new hires for Stiris Research

Ali Parkinson and Madison Pearce are both graduates of the Diploma in Clinical Trials Management program at Western Continuing Studies, and both got their start at Stiris Research Inc. thanks to the practicum component of the program.

Today, Parkinson is Manager, Clinical Operations (CPAs) and Pearce is a Project Manager at Stiris, an entrepreneurial clinical trial management company that works with Biotechnology and Biopharmaceutical companies across North America.   

“In this industry, it’s invaluable to have people come in at an entry level with some baseline knowledge,” says Parkinson. “The students coming in are eager to learn, and we can provide that continuation of their education.”

"By the end of the placement, we have a good sense if the intern is a good fit. It’s a seamless way to transition people into the workforce"

Interns go through a formal onboarding and training process before starting their work placement as a clinical project associate. “They work closely alongside the Project Manager,” explains Pearce, a role that entails everything from data management to communicating with team members, clinical sites, and hospitals.

"It’s a seamless way to transition people into the workforce"

“By the end of the placement, we have a good sense if the intern is a good fit for the company, and they have a good sense if the company is a good fit for them,” says Parkinson.  “It’s a seamless way to transition people into the workforce.”

Learn more about hiring a student intern