Christine Vernon (‘07 BEd) is a new volunteer to the University of Alberta’s English Language School Conversation Club.  Conversation Club allows for volunteers to drop by on a casual basis to practice speaking with international students who are working to improve their English skills. Christine is currently pursuing a Masters in Special Education while also holding a reading-therapist certification that she completed in 2020. Her master's thesis focuses on the representation of English Language Learner (ELL) students in special education programs to better differentiate between a learning disability and needing language support. Christine's hands-on research delves into the assessment process and seeks to provide Canadian perspectives on the matter.

Christine’s background in teaching is partially what drew her to the Conversation Club as well as a desire to better understand the challenges that ESL (English as a Second Language) students face at University. Christine's commitment to this diverse group of students goes beyond language; she aims to help them navigate the intricacies of expressions, idioms, and nuances within the English language. However at the end of the day: “Communication is important - the specifics can come later” she says, emphasizing that it’s important to listen and give students space to speak about what they are thinking or feeling. Personally, she enjoys how the experience makes her examine her own language use and ways to speak beyond words.

Volunteering her time has always been important to Christine, something that she learned from her parents Joyce and William,  who were very active in their church community.  They were “always out helping others”, something she was both exposed to and a part of growing up.

Christine notes that she is a fairly extroverted person so she “jumped right in” to volunteering, but new volunteers certainly don’t have to go it alone. “If you don’t know where to start, most organizations will give you the chance to partner up, learn and get the experience before striking out on your own”.  She felt her experiences with the U of A were really flexible, and offered options for her busy schedule. “It’s really easy to get into - don’t be fearful about your level of knowledge. Most places are willing to teach you, if you are willing to take the time to learn”.

In her free time, Christine loves spending time with her family outdoors in nature.

 

Written by Courtney Wagner, Program Lead Volunteers