Aspiring to pursue a career in childcare, Karamjot Malli seamlessly transitioned into Douglas College’s Child and Youth Care program after high school with the help of a dual-credit course.

By Tanta Siriporn Na Rajasima, Marketing and Communications

Karamjot Malli didn’t know what she wanted to study after high school. While she knew it could be related to childcare, it wasn’t until she discovered the partnership between Surrey School District 36 and Douglas College’s Child and Youth Care (CYC) program that she had more of a sense of direction. The partnership, which allows grade 11 students to earn both high school and post-secondary credits during the summer* through an introductory Child and Youth Care course, ignited her passion for helping youth and gave her a head start on her degree.

Now completing the CYC program at Douglas, Karamjot is more determined than ever to make a difference in the field. In an interview with Douglas, she shares her journey of gaining confidence to work with children and offers advice to prospective students who are still hesitant to pursue a career in child and youth care. 

What did you like most about the CYC dual-credit course?

My instructors were extremely helpful in creating a supportive learning environment, which made the program approachable and comfortable to be a part of. They showed genuine empathy for youth and a keen interest in the subject matter. As a high school student, I appreciated this approach, because it allowed me to learn collaboratively and navigate the course content easily. It wasn’t solely about doing individual assignments or attending lectures, but it involved a lot of group activities, too. The course load was manageable and prepared me for the demands of college courses, where independent learning and collaboration are essential.

Was there a particular moment that was memorable to you?

The dual-credit course is an introduction to the history of child and youth care practice in North America. It was interesting to hear different perspectives from other students in class. Being among like-minded peers was comforting because it helped me realize that there are many more people in this world who want to help youth just like me. 

What has your experience been in the program?

I have felt quite confident in the CYC program because it allows me to progress at my own pace. Unlike typical programs that feature a lot of reading and research, this program is more experience-based, with many interesting case studies that provide challenging scenarios to prepare us for real-world settings.

The courses emphasize professional skills, such as showing empathy without trauma dumping on clients. The fact that this degree is tailored to one specific job benefits me more than getting a more general degree, as it increases employment prospects through practical experience. This program has provided a great foundation in Child and Youth Care. In the future, I hope to use the knowledge and skills that I’ve gained to pursue a master’s degree and become a registered counselor.

Are there particular courses you have liked in the program so far?

One standout class was a family violence course looking into different types of global violence. Another favourite was a substance use course. It was eye-opening because I knew little about harm reduction or helping those battling substance use. This course resonated with me on a personal level, as I’ve lost many close relationships due to their struggles with substance use, which motivated me to be more involved and interested in this course. It sparked my desire to help others and equipped me with useful techniques. The CYC courses have shaped me in ways I never expected.

What influenced you to ultimately choose the CYC program over others? How did this course impact your future career goals? 

I wasn’t sure whether to pursue psychology or childcare before enrolling in the CYC program, so I was mostly influenced by the people around me. I know a few people with a psychology degree who ended up teaching or not doing anything with it, which isn’t what I want. I’d rather be assured that I could fully work with youth after my degree without wasting my time. Douglas’s CYC program meets this need. I don’t want to keep going back to school. I just want to get it done in one go. Plus, gaining hands-on experience working with kids and directly learning from supervisors through the program’s three practicums is ideal.

How did the introductory course help you explore and commit to the CYC degree program? 

The dual-credit course was a short taste of the CYC degree, featuring introductory concepts essential for success in the larger program. The gap between assignments and readings was quick, yet they structured it in a way that students could learn effectively and in a balanced manner.

The dual-credit course prepared me well for studying in a post-secondary environment. I knew what to expect from the program and life as a college student, which gave me the familiarity I needed to proceed along the road with relative confidence.

Any advice that you want to share with prospective students who are considering the dual-credit course? 

Don’t stress! The course is straightforward; treat it like any other. It offers valuable insights into childcare and a space for exploration. It prepares you for post-secondary even if you decide not to pursue this pathway. Earning three transferable credits is also beneficial. This course has motivated me to learn without being forced to do so, and you will feel the same way if you are really interested in working with youth. The overall experience has clarified what I truly wanted to do or be, strengthening my self-awareness and passion while affirming how fulfilling careers in youth care are.

---

Learn more about Douglas College’s partnership with Surrey School District 36 and Child and Youth Care programs.

*The dual-credit course is offered from July to August at Princess Margaret Secondary School, aligning with students’ summer schedules without interfering with their regular academic year.