OPPORTUNITIES IN GOVERNMENT PROVIDE VALUABLE EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENTS

This summer, over 500 students have been hired throughout the province by government departments and are working at various jobs such as lab assistants, park interpreters and forestry technicians.

Many of these students are using their summer experience to assist with their studies.

"I am doing an undergrad thesis from field work this summer," University of Regina geology student Chelsey Ebel said. "I think this job has confirmed my choice to be a geologist. I really can't see myself in any other field of work anymore."

Ebel is working as a Geological Assistant with the department of Industry and Resources.

Students are hired into government through two summer student programs: the Centennial Student Employment Program (CSEP) and the Summer Student Employment program.

"We hope these students will find their experiences rewarding," Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission Pat Atkinson said. "When they are finished their education, we encourage them to consider career opportunities in the public service."

Atkinson said student programs are designed to offer students opportunities to gain work experience in the public service within their area of study, and to help offset the costs of education.

The majority of positions are for the summer months; however, some students will also work part-time during the school year. Other programs of interest to students offered through the provincial public service include internship programs and co-op work-term opportunities.

"The nature of the government workplace is so varied and diverse that we are able to offer students a range of interesting opportunities," Atkinson said. "Often students are able to gain employment in their field of study."

Other students have also said their summer jobs have confirmed career choices.

"This job gave me an idea of what I want to do," said Chris Wagner, a geology student at the University of Regina working as a Petroleum Technician in Estevan. "This is my first time ever being in a job in my field and I'm going to continue on getting my degree because I enjoy the industry."

Students who wish to apply for future jobs in government may do so via the Government of Saskatchewan's student jobs web site, located at www.gov.sk.ca/psc/student.

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For More Information, Contact:

Colleen Hawkesford Public Service Commission Regina Phone: (306) 787-5581