My Experience as a Practicum Student

"I chose the Alzheimer Society because it aligned with my interests and education. I am completing two Bachelor’s degrees - one in Health Studies and another in Psychology - so I felt that dementia research, care, and advocacy fit within both of these fields."

- Erica Zarazun, Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan summer  practicum student

To sum up my experience at the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, I would say it was life changing.

If you’ve ever done a student work placement, or know someone who has, you know that it can be stressful. You are stepping out of the classroom, or away from your computer at home, and getting some real-world work experience for maybe the first time. You are working for a full un-paid semester (4 months) on projects your placement has for you, plus handing in assignments based on your experience to the university. 

A change like this can be overwhelming at times, but the warm and welcoming team at the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan made me look forward to work each morning. I felt challenged, encouraged, and supported throughout my placement and had my learning expectations greatly exceeded.

The goal of student work placements is to apply the knowledge gained from your classes to a business or organization in a useful and mutually beneficial way.

I worked in the Public Awareness and Communications department focusing on a project for dementia-friendly communities and building an online knowledge hub. This allowed me to use and improve my research, communication, and writing skills. I also learned how non-profit organizations function and are structured, and how an inclusive office works together to reach its goals.

Along with learning from my supervisor, Leslie Quennell, the Director of Public Awareness and Communications, I built some amazing friendships and connections with other people in the office that I know will continue after this placement is done.

I was very inspired and motivated by Joanne Bracken, the CEO, and her leadership style. Talking to her and the staff about her leadership and how she approaches situations made it clear to me why her staff love working for her. I found the leadership at the Alzheimer Society looks to make everyone feel important, engaged, and empowered. I feel lucky to have been a part of an organization where people are driven and inspiring. I have nothing but good things to say about all the Society staff and will reflect on this positive experience for the rest of my life.

I feel that I grew professionally and personally here, learning a lot about myself, how my education is relevant to a job, and what my strengths and weaknesses are.

I developed more confidence, in my work and in myself, and from the knowledge and connections I acquired while at the Society. I wanted to have a beneficial work placement experience and I definitely feel like I accomplished this, and I felt like I was a valuable asset to my department.

This organization has some amazing opportunities for someone who is interested in researching, building connections, writing, is self-motivating, and, most importantly, wants to grow and feel valuable.

One of the biggest takeaways from my learning experience at the Alzheimer Society is that it's okay to feel like you don't always know what you are doing, but it is important to try and do it anyway. The leadership here taught me making mistakes, being able to admit them, and being able to reflect on them is what promotes personal growth and being self-reflective is a strength. It is good to do things that scare you or that you are not familiar with because those things will teach you something new. And, asking for help when you need it is a good thing! 

The Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan is an organization that values and encourages learning, growth, and open communication. They outline expectations and limitations clearly but give you the freedom to express yourself, so you are engaged and connected to the work you are doing. They are clear on their goals, expectations, and limitations and hold themselves to a high standard. This is a place of growth that is doing amazing things for those living with dementia, their care partners, and families.

I  want to thank the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan for making this experience so valuable to me and teaching me so much. Thank you for welcoming me into the office and guiding me through this experience.

Written by Erica Zarazun, summer practicum student for the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan