This month, a group of TWU students on the Ottawa travel study took classes in business law while spending two weeks living at TWU’s historic Laurentian Leadership Centre (LLC) and visiting key sites in the nation’s capital, including the Supreme Court of Canada, Parliament, and the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.
Immersive learning within the nation's capital
These experiences served to provide a first-hand perspective on the two courses that students on the travel study are taking: BUSI 346 Law for the Business Manager and POLS 493 Law, Public Policy, and Cultural Change. The courses are taught by Dr. Kevin Sawatsky and Dr. Ann Penner respectively.
On the politics side of the curriculum, students are encouraged to engage the historical and contemporary debate in Canada relating to multiple challenges, including how Christians interface with culture, the role of organized religion, and the methodologies and perspectives of various entities that seek to influence culture.
“In class, we learn about public policy creation, then the next day we get to tour Parliament and talk one-on-one with an MP. It's an incredible way to connect learning to real life.”
Connecting learning to real life
Delaney Scholz is going into the fourth year of her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program with a specialization in marketing. After graduation, Delaney hopes to work in marketing strategy with a local company in the Lower Mainland.
As she reflected on the Ottawa travel study, Delaney said, “What is so amazing about the Law in Ottawa travel study is that we get to learn in such an immersive environment.”
“In class, we learn about public policy creation, then the next day we get to tour Parliament and talk one-on-one with an MP. It's an incredible way to connect learning to real life,” she added.
A first-hand perspective on policy-making in Canada
Living within a historic mansion is a special highlight for students, as Delaney comments, “the LLC is rich with stories.” Another highlight for Delaney was the group’s day trip to Montreal. One of Delaney’s favourite spots was the Le Petit Duck Shoppe, which is Canada's largest rubber duck store.
Gaining new perspectives into the Canadian justice system
Lauryn Dieleman is pursuing a BBA with a specialization in leadership and management. With an interest in law and real estate, Lauryn is looking forward to completing her degree and is considering taking the LSAT exam. She joined the Ottawa travel study and greatly appreciated the opportunity. "I loved the immersive, hands-on perspective that guided the learning process during the trip. This travel study allowed me to forge new friendships while also bringing a wide range of viewpoints and insights relating to the Canadian system of law and politics," she said.
The guest speakers and learning experiences aided Lauryn's understanding of course topics in valuable ways. Her favourite speaker was Justice Russell Brown, who is one of only nine justices within the Supreme Court of Canada. Lauryn felt that he presented a very honest and transparent view of his role within the Canadian justice system.
"This travel study allowed me to forge new friendships while also bringing a wide range of viewpoints and insights relating to the Canadian system of law and politics."
A renewed outlook on Canadian politics
One of the most memorable experiences for Lauryn was attending Question Period in the House of Commons. "For me, Question Period brought life to Canadian politics. Living in British Columbia, it can often feel as though we are far removed from the political system; however, watching politicians in action within the capital of Canada provided a renewed outlook on the topic," she said.
"This travel study provided much more than simply an opportunity for academic growth; it has given me numerous memories and relationships that I will hold for a lifetime."
Other travel study highlights included day trips to Montreal and Kingston, and the added experiences of the history, culture, and cuisine of Eastern Canada.
"This travel study provided much more than simply an opportunity for academic growth; it has given me numerous memories and relationships that I will hold for a lifetime," Lauryn reflected. "I am so thankful to have been able to take part in this travel study. I would also like to give a major 'thank you' to professors Kevin Sawatsky and Ann Penner for leading the group with passion, enthusiasm, and extensive knowledge."
