Over the summer, Circle of Care welcomed a cohort of university students from a range of academic backgrounds — including social work, volunteer programming, communications, and client services — to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in a professional setting. More than just summer jobs, these placements reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of professionals as they navigate the crucial transition from academic learning to real-world practice.
Circle of Care’s summer students participated in a luncheon and learning opportunity together in late June.
In an economy where early-career opportunities can be hard to come by, we’re proud to partner with academic institutions to offer practical experiences that help students build networks, apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts, and develop the confidence and clarity that will support their long-term career goals. These placements allow students to deepen their understanding of the sectors they’re passionate about while also learning how workplaces operate — from collaborating on teams to navigating organizational culture.
For us, this isn’t just a contribution to individual career paths — it’s part of building a sustainable talent pipeline. Students bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our work during their time with us, and we often stay connected with them long after the summer ends — some return in full-time roles, and many carry forward the impact of their experience into future positions across the health and social service sectors.
As their time with us wraps up, we invited this year’s students to reflect on what they’ve learned — about the work, about themselves, and about the field they’re stepping into. Their reflections reinforce why partnerships between organizations like ours and universities matter: they are not only beneficial for the students and our teams, but also for the broader system that relies on a strong, supported, and experienced workforce.
Akhila V., Social Work Student
My experience has been very fulfilling as I enjoyed Circle of Care’s willingness to give me the space and independence to apply my social work skills. I valued being able to receive clinical supervision as I worked directly with clients, conducting assessments, providing counselling, and managing cases. I learned more about the interprofessional communication skills needed to navigate various resources and systems. Circle of Care’s approach allowed me to take on meaningful responsibilities, including presenting on mental health at a community fair. My summer experience has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Mahima U., Volunteer Resources Student
This summer has been an incredible learning experience. The Volunteer Resources team and other colleagues I’ve worked with have been wonderfully supportive and encouraging, always ready to answer my questions with kindness. I’ve enjoyed gaining insight into the volunteer onboarding process and I appreciate that I was able to connect firsthand with clients as well. Some of my most meaningful experiences included leading weekly brain teaser programs for clients, collaborating with the team on an intergenerational project, and stepping out of my comfort zone to volunteer with the hospice team. I’m very grateful to Lisa, the Director of Volunteer Programs, who made the hospice volunteer opportunity possible and helped me bring my academic learning into a real-world context.
Misbah P., Client Services Summer Student
It has been a pleasure working with the incredible Client Services team, as well as with all the staff at Circle of Care! The warm welcome I received made it easy to step into the behind-the-scenes work that plays a vital role in delivering quality care to clients. In my role, I contributed to reviewing and updating policies, engaging with clients, and strengthening my clinical and therapeutic communication skills. I am thrilled to have had this opportunity and am extremely grateful to Circle of Care for everything they have done for me, as well as everything they do for those in need.
Charlotte T., Communications Student
Over the past few months, I’ve had a fantastic learning experience as part of the Communications team. The team’s guidance and willingness to teach not only helped me build new skills but also made me feel encouraged and valued every step of the way.
I’ve had the opportunity to strengthen my effective communication skills by learning how to compose clear, engaging internal communications content tailored to different audiences. I also had the chance to explore different programs within the organization, which opened my mind to the various ways each team operates. This opportunity has not only contributed to my professional growth but has also given me an appreciation for being a part of an organization that truly puts its clients first, gives back to the community, and makes a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.
