By Samantha Goudey
Stephanie, a BCArc intern, has gained much more than just experience throughout her time at BCArc; she has additionally found an unexpected sense of confidence.
Just over a year ago, Stephanie was a BCC student looking for field work to satisfy her certificate program’s requirements. That’s when she discovered BCArc.
“I love the individuals, the events, and all the things they love to do. It’s the kind of place you never want to walk away from.”
Stephanie joined the team as a Private Care Provider intern, where she planned ladies’ nights and spent time getting to know the individuals we support through a wide range of programs. Despite feeling nervous at first, both the individuals and staff helped her quickly acclimate to the new environment.
Her internship was originally unpaid to fulfill college requirements, but after completing this, she loved the work so much that she returned as a paid staff member.
“They helped me learn to love myself and feel confident. As much as I teach them, they teach me too.”
“It’s nice because every summer you intern, you get to experience a new side of BCArc, it’s really a continuation of learning. It’s always different.” Stephanie has now had the opportunity to engage with a multitude of programs, ranging from BCArc’s summer exclusive events to the continuous day programs where she has “learned more than anything.”
“I love the individuals, the events, and all the things they love to do. It’s the kind of place you never want to walk away from.”
Despite BCArc being her first one-on-one experience working with individuals with disabilities, Stephanie has grown exponentially as a professional and as an individual. This experience has taught her lessons she wouldn’t have learned elsewhere, such as self-love, acceptance, and confidence. She smiles, recollecting the times she’s successfully redirected an individual’s negative self-talk, and simultaneously, when an individual redirected hers.
“They helped me learn to love myself and feel confident. As much as I teach them, they teach me too.”
Stephanie has now been a BCArc intern for over a year. Now having graduated from BCC, she looks forward to the continuation of her education and the future ahead.
Her advice to those considering interning at BCArc?
“Take one day at a time and step out of your comfort zone. If you do, it will be a very fulfilling experience. And honestly, I couldn’t recommend BCArc more.”
