What is the Centre for Experiential Learning?
The Centre for Experiential Learning (CEL) and Student Engagement at Vancouver Island University is a comprehensive hub supporting students, faculty and employers through a range of services that enhance work-integrated learning (WIL), career readiness, student engagement and success.
Our team provides essential resources for pre-employment preparation, career transition, and employer partnerships while maintaining critical administrative operations like record-keeping and reporting.
CEL serves as a bridge between academic learning and real-world experiences, fostering meaningful connections and ensuring students are prepared for life beyond graduation.
- Danielle Johnsrude, Director
Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services 2023 Highlights Report
This annual report highlights general trends and developments over the past year.
Student Stories
Chasing triathlon dreams and a teaching career
Ryan Seaman never imagined he would become a triathlete, let alone one of the fastest in his age bracket in the world.
In 2024, the former…
Building a future rooted in community
Marissa (ḥayuxt̓in) Tom-Charlie wasn’t planning to go to university right after high school. The Ucluelet Secondary School graduate hadn’t applied to any post…
Accounting internship adds up to future business success
Two years after finishing high school, Emory Dettwiler started seriously thinking about her future career. “I decided that if I want to run a great…
Shining a light on child and youth care workers
Ella Craig has always had a passion for working with children. “I know it’s not always easy, but I also know it’s something I was meant to do,” she says.…
Carpentry students build skills and community
On an otherwise-quiet stretch of land in tišosǝm, the bang of hammers and roar of saws are the sounds of a legacy being built. The structure rising from…