Kaitlynne-Rae Landry's Blog

So, this would be one of those comical events where I’d poke my head around the corner and walk back in all stealth like, considering my blog has been largely dormant since June. Really, I’m sorry about this: it’s just, I’ve been busy!

In the world of news, I am now at the University of Ottawa studying History and Political Sciences (French Immersion & Co-op). If you think that’s a mouthful, you should look at the course load, and then you’d understand why I’ve been such an unreliable blogger. I’m also thoroughly enjoying the start of my one year tenure as a Page in the House of Commons. It’s been absolutely exceptional to get such an intimate and at times, overwhelming, look into the inner realm of the political machine. My fellow pages have become some of my closest friends; they are a group of exceedingly amazing youth from across the country. We have a smashing great time.

In regards to CYA, uOttawa has some amazing opportunities, such as their Experiential Learning Service (ELS). This program is basically a localized version of what we on staff see CYA! Volunteering evolving to. Volunteer positions are posted and then can be browsed and selected by students, with the opportunity for the hours to be recorded by the school and put on a permanent and comprehensive record that can be sent to graduate schools or potential employers. I have begun to work closely with the ELS office in getting some of the volunteering positions that are open within CYA posted on their site and in their database, and it has already been extremely successful. We have a volunteer working on things as an Aboriginal Liaison. I’m also really looking forward to seeing this program expanding in the coming semesters. If the school you’re currently attending runs a similar program, please email me (landryk@cya-ajc.ca) and let me know!

Now that I’m all settled into university and tackling my first ever midterms tomorrow, I’m really excited to re-invest more time in CYA, so, I’m back, here to stay. See you on the flipside.