Meet Andrew S.

Undergraduate Ombuds Intern

Office of the Student Ombuds, University of Alberta 

Summer 2022 (12 month term)

“Working with the Office of the Student Ombuds has given me invaluable insight into the Higher Education professional landscape. I have come to learn how important the Ombuds role is at the university, as our office aims to create a fair and just environment for everyone, and in particular, students. My job as an Undergraduate Ombuds Intern varies day to day– from working with students on appeals to co-presenting on conflict resolution. In addition, I have had the opportunity to work on numerous self-driven projects. The diverse range of experiences garnered from my work term has given me the opportunity to develop skills which will help shape my future studies, and eventually, my career. 

One of the most important things I have learned from my work term was how I can blend my own interests with my work, even if they aren't directly related. Although initially I wasn’t sure how my work at the Office of the Student Ombuds related to a future career in mental health, I quickly found that there were many opportunities to explore my interest within my work term. Additionally, as I progressed through my term, I found new interests which I wouldn’t have previously thought to explore – such as issues around fairness and approaching problems with a systematic approach. My take home message is to keep an open mind when searching for work terms–- even if a work placement doesn’t initially look like something that will match your current interests, you could be pleasantly surprised!” 

Andrew Schultz (he/him) is in his third year of studies with a major in Honors Psychology and a minor in Philosophy. He is interested in mental health and hopes to study Counselling Psychology in the future. In his free time, Andrew enjoys climbing, reading and spending time outdoors.