Like many of her peers, Gursimran Mann had planned to transfer to university after completing two years at Douglas College.

But once the psychology student heard about the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care (CYC) program from a fellow Student Ambassador, her transfer plans went out the window.

“When I started at Douglas, I planned to become a clinical counsellor, but then I started to volunteer more with youth and children, and I had a change of heart,” she said. “I realized I wanted to pursue a career focusing on youth.”

Mann applied the skills she learned in the CYC program during her first-year practicum at Riverdale Elementary School, in Surrey. During her placement, she worked with kids every day, building valuable experience and connections in her field to help jump start her career after graduation.

Once she completes her bachelor’s degree at Douglas, Mann wants to work with teenage girls who are struggling with issues such as addiction.

“I would love to work in a high school as a youth worker and help create a positive environment for them,” she said.

The Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care program prepares graduates for careers working with children, youth and families as child and youth-care workers, or for advanced positions in the child and youthcare field. Virtually 100 percent of grads find work within three months of receiving their credential.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care program at Douglas College are eligible to apply for the Master of Arts in Child and Youth Care at the University of Victoria and to several other Masters programs.