Connecting the classroom to community – City & University partnership supports student success

As the University of Lethbridge prepares to host its upcoming career fair and fall convocation, the City of Lethbridge is helping students gain experience and explore career paths to support their transition after graduation. 

Now in its fourth year, the City Scholars program creates a pathway for students, faculty, and the City to collaborate through Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). WIL is a form of experiential education that formally integrates a student’s academic studies with meaningful experiences in a workplace or practice setting. Students work on evidence-informed applied research projects that support innovation while addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Lethbridge. 

“The City Scholars program provides students with hands-on workplace experience where they gain professional skills while still meeting their academic requirements,” says Meagan Williams, Community Partnership Specialist. “Working with students is a great way to connect them with the community they’re learning and living in for four (or more) years, while tackling real world community challenges. It’s a collaborative approach to problem-solving and we gain so much insight from their perspectives and skills.” 

Projects vary each semester but are often aligned with the City’s operational and strategic priorities. This semester’s WIL class is exploring how to build a more sustainable community that amplifies youth voices. Potential projects may include looking at how to make physical infrastructure more resilient, promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, or enhancing resident wellbeing through sustainable initiatives. 

“This semester, the WIL class working with the City includes students from a range of programs — Biological Sciences, Psychology, Addictions Counselling, and Computer Science,” says Erin Kennett, WIL Instructor, Career Bridge, University of Lethbridge. “It’s an amazing opportunity for students to connect with industry experts, build professional skills, and work alongside classmates from other disciplines.  They’re not just learning – they’re contributing real ideas and perspectives that matter to the City and the community.”   

While most students are busy with their fall semester studies, others have completed their final courses and are preparing to cross the stage on October 18 at the University’s Fall Convocation. One such student, and new City employee, is Ava Carter. 

Carter recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and has a passion for community, youth and public service. A student research position was created through funding support thanks to the partnership between the City and the University’s School of Liberal Education. With her skills, education, and enthusiasm made Ava an ideal candidate for the position. 

“I really want to pursue a career that draws on my education and serves the community and people around me,” says Carter. “This position allows me to do just that — it’s a fantastic place to start my career path in the city I call home.” 

Students interested in learning more about career opportunities with the City should mark Thursday, October 2 on their calendars. The City will be at the University’s Fall Career Fair with information and opportunities to start a career in public service. 

“There are so many career paths for students to enter the workforce in the world of public service,” says Perry Stein, Manager, Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships. “From planners to engineers to accountants to educators, the talent and skills university graduates bring with them open many doors at the City.” 

The City Scholars program supports the shared values outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding agreement the City and University signed earlier this year. 

To learn more about the City Scholars program and current career opportunities, visit lethbridge.ca/careers. 

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