Student
The Role of Students
Carpe Diem is based upon a ‘teaching’ philosophy - we believe that we are all learning, whatever our role entails. Students, then, are especially important to our agency as they can add to the lives of the children, foster parents and staff supervisors. We accept high school co-op students and college practicum students from many different programs. The student's placement is often tailored to meet his or her specific goals, depending on her interests, previous experience, and years in the
college program.
college program.
Placement Requirements
A placement at Carpe Diem is quite independent. Students are usually meeting with children and families on their own, after having set up goals and activities with their supervisors. A student needs to have a great deal of initiative to get the most out of this placement. Students need to be able to demonstrate basic work ethic and enthusiasm
for children!
for children!
College students need a reliable vehicle and need to be prepared for primarily evening work hours. Unfortunately, Carpe Diem cannot provide reimbursement for mileage.
Student Opportunities:
- To work specifically with a number of families and children in a support role. For
example to provide recreational, educational activities or provide in-home
support.
- To provide therapeutic support to a family or children. For example to provide activities based on the child's treatment plan, to be involved in additional treatment approaches (like supporting a child at a community social skills group).
- To assist the child throughout the day in a school setting, including meeting with support people and acting as a liaison between home and school.
- To assist with groups.
- To assume some Case Manager duties.
Student Supervision
Students are assigned a Supervisor who is a full-time member of the Carpe Diem team. All staff feel responsible to provide any students with feedback and learning experiences.
Supervision occurs both informally and formally. Informal supervision occurs ‘on the spot’ and may be discussions over a break or in the car, for example. Formal supervision meetings are set up by appointment and involve planning by the student and supervisor. They are usually longer in length and have an agenda. Students are responsible for asking for supervision if they feel they need more, or supervision of a different kind!