Sanya Arora

Bachelor of Science in Psychology, 4th year

Non-Profit Board Internship (NPBI), Fall 2024 - Winter 2025

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

Hi, I’m Sanya Arora, a fourth-year Psychology student at the University of Alberta and an intern with the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS) through the Non-Profit Board Internship (NPBI) program!

During my internship, I had the opportunity to learn about board governance, attend weekly board meetings, and contribute to a 20-hour project focused on developing an orientation package for new board members. This experience has helped me gain a deeper understanding of non-profit leadership while building skills in governance and decision-making.

I’m grateful for this opportunity to support EDSS and learn from such an incredible organization!

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL placement?

The biggest takeaway from my Non-Profit Board Internship (NPBI) placement with the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS) was gaining an in-depth understanding of non-profit governance and how strategic decisions shape an organization’s future. Attending weekly board meetings and participating in a strategy planning session was particularly eye-opening. During the strategy planning session, I saw firsthand how board members collaborate to set long-term goals, address challenges, and align the organization’s resources with its mission. It highlighted the importance of visionary leadership, strategic thinking, and the need for adaptability in a constantly evolving environment.

Working on the orientation package for new board members further expanded my understanding of governance by emphasizing the significance of clear communication and structured onboarding to ensure that new members can contribute effectively. This experience reinforced how crucial it is for boards to build a strong foundation of trust, collaboration, and alignment with the organization’s values and goals.

In addition to these activities, I worked on creating summaries for the programs offered by EDSS, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the organization's core offerings and its impact on the community. This task helped me see how each program fits into the larger structure of the organization and how the board’s decisions influence the direction of these programs. Through all of these experiences, I gained a profound appreciation for the complexities of non-profit leadership, strategic decision-making, and the importance of a well-structured, communicative organization.

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

The knowledge and skills I gained from my Non-Profit Board Internship (NPBI) with the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society (EDSS) will significantly influence my future work in the field of mental health and awareness. Throughout my time with EDSS, I developed a deep understanding of how non-profit organizations are structured and governed, which will be invaluable as I move forward in my career. Learning how to navigate board meetings, contribute to strategic planning, and create structured resources, such as the orientation package for new members, has given me the tools to improve organizational efficiency and impact—skills that are essential when working in mental health organizations.

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

Students should consider being involved with Community Service-Learning (CSL) because it offers a unique opportunity to bridge academic learning with real-world experiences. CSL allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to practical, hands-on work in the community, enhancing their understanding of course content. By participating in CSL, students can develop critical skills like problem-solving, communication, and collaboration, all of which are essential in both academic and professional settings.

CSL also deepens students' understanding of societal issues by immersing them in diverse community needs and giving them the chance to contribute meaningfully. This experience provides valuable insights into how academic theories and concepts can be used to address real-world problems, making learning more relevant and impactful. Additionally, CSL fosters a sense of civic responsibility and encourages students to become engaged and compassionate leaders in their communities.

Moreover, the reflection component of CSL encourages students to think critically about their experiences, helping them connect their work with personal and academic goals. This reflective process allows students to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for growth, enhancing their academic learning and future career prospects.