Safiyyah Oni

BA in Psychology, 4th year

Psych 325, Winter 2025, Dr. Ana Alves Vieira

Who was your community partner, and can you describe the project objectives?

U-School: A program run by the University of Alberta Senate that brings students in grades 3-9 from socially vulnerable, Indigenous, and rural communities to campus for a week to learn about university life. The program is rooted in the belief that university should be accessible to all students as a place for growth and learning. Its goal is to expose these students to the university environment and inspire them to consider higher education in the future.

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL placement?

The biggest takeaway from my CSL placement was seeing how crucial the supportive relationship between teachers and students is, especially when working with vulnerable populations. During my placement, I witnessed firsthand how teachers encouraged participation, listened actively, and engaged with the students' activities, reinforcing the importance of their support and involvement. I could see how much the students appreciated their teachers' presence and thrived in an environment where they felt supported. They weren’t afraid to be themselves around their peers and often included their teachers in discussions and jokes. When they didn’t understand something, they weren’t hesitant to ask for help. From the teachers’ perspective, this supportive relationship also helped them maintain better control of the classroom. Even when things got rowdy, the students were quick to listen and follow instructions. Witnessing these interactions made it clear to me how vital the teacher's role is in the classroom, particularly for elementary to junior high students. Teachers are often present in their students' lives just as much, if not more, than their parents on a daily basis, which makes their impact even more significant.

How can you apply any newly gained knowledge/skills to your future endeavours (courses/employment/volunteering)? 

During my U-School placement, I gained valuable insights into the importance of creating a supportive environment for students, which reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in the mental health field. I realized that supporting students goes beyond the teacher-student relationship—it involves building a network of care that includes teachers, parents, and other key figures in the student’s life. This holistic approach is crucial when helping students navigate challenges, whether academic, emotional, or social. Listening to students, understanding their needs, and ensuring they feel heard and valued is essential for their well-being and development.

As a psychology major, this experience reinforced my belief that a supportive environment is fundamental to any treatment plan or intervention. It made me recognize the importance of involving teachers, parents, and even peers in supporting a student through their challenges. This collaborative approach ensures the student receives consistent care and guidance from all areas of their life, which can have a lasting impact on their mental health and overall success.

My U-School placement also made me reconsider working with youth. Initially, I thought my prior experience with preschool and kindergarten-aged children meant that working with older youth wouldn’t be a good fit for me. However, seeing the diverse needs and experiences of students in elementary and junior high school helped me realize that I have the skills and passion to work with this age group. This experience broadened my perspective and encouraged me to consider working with older youth in the mental health field. I can envision myself in roles where I provide emotional support and guidance. Working with young people in educational or community settings would Allow me to apply both my psychological knowledge and my passion for making a positive impact on their development.

Why should students consider being involved with CSL, and how does it enhance their academic learning?

Students should consider being involved with CSL because it allows them to solidify and experience the theory they learn in class in a real-world setting. There’s a big difference between learning something in a classroom and actually seeing and experiencing it firsthand. Some aspects align with what you learn, while others may be completely different, offering valuable insights and learning opportunities. Overall, CSL is not only a fun experience but also a great way to meet new people, network, and discover the incredible work being done by various organizations. It’s an enriching experience that enhances academic learning and broadens your perspective.

How has receiving the Student Equity Award been a supportive avenue for you?

It helped me cover various expenses, including gas, which allowed me to commute to both the university and my placement location.