Confederation College media release
THUNDER BAY – Students in grades 6-12 have been participating in the Rooted in Nature Adventure Week, a week-long Career Sampler offered by Confederation College. Students had the unique opportunity to learn directly from Confederation’s President, Jim Madder Wednesday afternoon.
Madder led participants in an exploration of common habitats for insects of northwestern Ontario, using skills and knowledge gained through his Ph.D. in Medical Entomology and years of teaching.
“It has been a pleasure working with the Career Samplers team to present a hands-on learning experience for participants,” Madder said. “I’m happy to lend my expertise and really enjoy when I can connect directly with students. Plus, I get to revisit my roots as a professor.”
Participants have spent much time outdoors this week, discovering, identifying and learning about the traditional uses of some common trees, plants and woody shrubs, and looking at common rocks and common habitats for animals. They have also practiced orientation skills with a compass and GPS unit and examined water quality and water run-off issues.
Shelley Leeson, Program Officer, Centre for Continuing Education at Confederation College explained, “The goal of the Career Samplers program is to start young minds thinking about their future while having fun. It’s also a great way for them to become familiar with our campus. We always strive to offer camps that speak to different interests and relate to our College’s postsecondary programs. This Rooted in Nature camp is a perfect way to engage adventure-seekers and inspire them to consider an education and career in the natural resources sector.”
This is the 10th year that the Career Samplers program has been operating at Confederation. This year’s Career Samplers include:
- Rooted in Nature Adventure Week (July 9-13)
- Beat the Heat Photo Week (August 7-10)
- Launch Your Culinary Journey (August 9 & 10)
Career Samplers are full for 2018 but will be back again next year. For more information about the Career Samplers program, visit www.confederationcollege.ca/career-samplers.
