STU GED Tutoring Program Changing Lives of Fredericton Unhoused

STU Campus Ministry, in partnership with the Fredericton Public Library, is providing one-on-one tutoring sessions to Fredericton unhoused individuals and the general public to help them acquire their General Education Development (GED) diploma.

Ethan Nylen, a fourth year STUdent, is leading and coordinating the program, which is being funded by the Canadian Catholic Ministry Grant.

Nylen and former Campus Minister Dr. Vivien Zelazny met with Warren Maddox, Executive Director of Fredericton Homeless Shelters Inc, who identified a need for residents to complete their GED and find sustainable employment.

“This seemed like a practical need STU was well equipped to serve as we have many bright students with good study habits,” Nylen said.

STU Campus Minister Claire Morrison stressed the importance of embracing new challenges through volunteering opportunities, which is a core component of STU’s education model.

“Volunteering helps us grow in compassion, which is an education beyond the classroom,” she said. •

‘Launch Your Future’ Interns Make an Impact

The O ce of Experiential Learning and Career Development’s Launch Your Future Internship program gave students the opportunity to earn professional experience, clarify career goals, and develop transferable skills. e program, which was made possible by RBC Future Launch, allowed students to propose their own internship placement with an employer of their choice anywhere in Atlantic Canada. Each student was awarded $9,000 to cover full-time wages for a 14-week period, as well as help with housing and travel.

“I really enjoyed that this program was focused on your career goals. It prioritized what you were studying or what you are interested in doing a er school.”

— Rachelle Wilby, who worked with the Crime Prevention Association of New Brunswick.

“I created a 6-week program, with activities ranging om resume and cover letter workshops, university visits, nancial literacy workshops, food handling—all skills that can strengthen their resume before they start university.”

Minahil Fatima, who worked with immigrant and refugee youth at the Multicultural Association of Fredericton.

“I really enjoyed my placement. I love the people, I love the connections that I’ve made, and it also has helped me clarify where I’m going next.”

— Pablo Costa, who worked with the New Brunswick Multicultural Council.

“My internship allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impacts of chronic illness on children, as well as learn important skills such as problem-solving, communication, and creative thinking.”

— Emily Bessey, who worked as the Child Life Programming intern with Camp Triumph in PEI. •