3 students walking outside on VIU Nanaimo Campus

Centre for Experiential Learning

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.

View the 2023 Report

Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services 2022 Highlights Report

View the 2022 Report

Student Stories

Turning clinic experience into community impact

Emma Rampanen will never forget working with a youth who is new to Canada and had never been to the dentist before. In addition to providing care, the Dental…

Building confidence through community

Taylor Fleming once shared a single Airbnb with more than 15 of her VIU Dance teammates during a competition in Vancouver. “It was a weekend I’ll never…

From Ecuador to VIU: Finding growth in every opportunity

Moving from Ecuador to Canada to finish a second degree meant adapting to a new country, a new school system and life far from home for Meylin Vasquez. The…

Growing her confidence and skills as a future educator

Victoria Dudley is proud of the confidence she gained while working in real classrooms throughout her degree.  “A highlight of my VIU experience is my…

Creating opportunities for herself and others

Connection has played an important part in Kendra Neary’s post-secondary journey, especially because her path didn’t start the way she had planned. “I started…

Contact us

View our staff directory

CEL Staff

Send us an email

CEL@viu.ca