When it comes to considering careers in leadership and government, TWU students have the opportunity to both hear from veterans in the field and pursue their own first-hand experiences.
This month, TWU had the honour of hosting Member of Parliament John Aldag, who shared with students his own career journey in Canadian politics, inspiring students to consider possible avenues in public service.
Mr. Aldag gave a presentation during an Issues in Canadian Politics class and spoke with students at a meet-and-greet event that also introduces students to Trinity Western’s Laurentian Leadership Centre (LLC) program in Ottawa. Mr. Aldag's office has provided internship opportunities to TWU students through the LLC, and many more LLC students have worked on Parliament Hill in various capacities.
Equipping students to engage with government and society
While attending the LLC in Ottawa, students gain work experience through field placements, complete three upper-level university courses, and experience living in community within a historic mansion in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Field placements span diverse fields and interests, such as politics and public service, media and communications, NGOs, think tanks, private sector firms, and more.
Last summer, the LLC hosted a summer travel study focused on business law. More TWU summer travel studies are on the horizon this year.
Combining work, academics, and community
For over two decades, Trinity Western’s LLC experience has been a highlight for many students and alumni.
Debora Herman, who attended the LLC last fall, describes her semester as "one of the most rewarding experiences" of her academic journey. Her internship on Parliament Hill not only helped her develop new skills but also provided her a deeper understanding of Canada’s political landscape. From witnessing history in-the-making within the nation’s capital to seeing the everyday work of Canadian politicians, the experience provided her a close-up view of careers in government.
Close-up view of Canadian government and leadership
“Working in politics under an MP has allowed me to gain a greater understanding of the immense responsibility and dedication required of public servants to effectively serve their constituents,” Debora comments, “I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to work with many dedicated individuals who have been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations.”
Christy Davis, another participant in the fall 2023 cohort, speaks of her four-month journey at the LLC as a multifaceted experience. Beyond the academic courses on government, public policy, and leadership, she engaged in hands-on fiscal policy research for the House of Commons under an MP. Throughout her semester in Ottawa, she not only honed her networking skills, learned about domestic and international diplomacy, but also gained a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between constituents, government, and stakeholders.
Diverse, hands-on learning experiences
The LLC is not just about work experience; it's about holistic development. In addition to field placements, students actively participate in interactive learning activities, including mock press conferences, debates, and court cases. They learn from influential figures like Supreme Court judges and justices, politicians, business leaders, and media representatives, who enrich students' academic journey with real-world insights.
Beyond the classroom and workplace, the LLC provides opportunities for adventure and exploration. Recent cohorts enjoyed kayaking and hiking in Wakefield, QC, weekend trips to Montréal, wintertime skating on the iconic Rideau Canal, and visits to local art galleries and museums.
The LLC welcomes applications each spring for the upcoming fall and spring semesters. Interested students can learn more and apply by Feb. 29 to join the program during the upcoming 2024–2025 fall or spring semesters.
About TWU's Laurentian Leadership Centre
The Laurentian Leadership Centre (LLC) is a live-in extension program in the heart of Ottawa. There is no other program in Canada that offers the same access to a variety of elite field placements in Ottawa in a wide range of workplaces including politics, advocacy organizations, NGOs, media organizations, and private sector firms. Learn more about the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university. We are dedicated to equipping students to discover meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. Drawing upon the riches of the Christian tradition, seeking to unite faith and reason through teaching and scholarship, Trinity Western University is a degree-granting research institution offering liberal arts and sciences as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.