How Confederation Has Changed My Life
I had dropped out of high school after grade 10 in St. John, NB. I got into Confederation as a mature student. I graduated and later upgraded and got my grade 12 diploma. I owe to Confederation College my professional career, being able to acquire a good paying job, which enables me to purchase a house, raise a family, etc.
My Most Positive Memory/Experience
My classmates who became my closest friends for those two years, since I'd travelled from Saint John, New Brunswick
My Fondest Memories
Dave Siciliano (retired) was a hockey player and coach, very dynamic and approachable. Dorothy Hewatt (retired) was very personable and fun to be around every day. She never had a bad day, always energetic and very knowledgeable. Keith Svenson (retired) was the third main professor.
Confederation College had a huge Intramural Program and in 1976, the Recreation Leadership program came out on top in many of the sports. I can remember winning the basketball foul shooting and at the age of 62, I still compete.
My Job Responsibilities
Plan and facilitate recreation programs for psyche patients on two to three wards with each ward consisting of 20–30 patients. Utilizing hospital facilities, rec.center with gym and bowling alley, coffee shop plus community facilities. Sitting on many committees for special events, working with a multidisciplinary team.
My Greatest Job Satisfaction
The quality of the programs I offer. As an example, swimming with wheelchair clients, supper and movie outings, music singalongs, camping programs. Client-centered activities designed to enhance a person's cognitive, social and physical condition.
My Advice to Others
I find this career very rewarding. You get a genuine feeling that the people you work with appreciate the care and attention you give them. For me, it's about lifestyle. I feel everyone deserves to be treated in a mature, professional way, as equals in a nonbullying, relaxed setting.
My Perceptions of What Employers are Looking For
In this Vancouver area, a bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation.
My Sense of Job Market Conditions
Conditions seem to be very good. There are many recreation jobs in nursing homes, long-term care facilities and recreation centers.
My Personal Successes
I began working at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital in Vancouver in November 1986. I have recently retired after 25 plus years. The program I took at Confederation enabled me to not only get this job, but become quite involved in many programs, coordinate special events, sit on the committee that plans the annual Mental Health Week for 1,500 patients and staff for the past 20 years. Forced retirement due to the hospital closing has closed some doors and opened others as I welcome the chance to become a full-time entertainer and clown, working in nursing homes and hospitals in Greater Vancouver.