October 25th, 2017
Lindsay: Local MP Jamie Schmale wrapped up three days of meetings with area secondary school students as part of the MPs second annual Capital Experience program.
The 14 students from schools across the riding were given a first-hand look at possible post-secondary career opportunities through a series of visits and interactions with individuals, groups and organizations in Ottawa from October 22 to 24.
“The program, started by former MP Barry Devolin, has been a very popular and beneficial program for young people in my riding’s seven secondary schools,” said Schmale. “This is really a wonderful opportunity for me to work directly with some of our young people and expose them to a number of potential career opportunities they may not have previously considered or been aware of.”
The students were able to attend meetings with the Chief Herald of Canada, Officials from the United Arab Emirates Embassy to Canada, Dominion Carillonneur of Canada, David McArthur Chief of Staff in the Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition, Andrew Scheer the Leader of the Official Opposition, as well as Tim Powers and Katlyn Harrison (a graduate of I.E. Weldon) from SUMMA, a government relations firm.
“This was a once in a lifetime experience and I am beyond grateful to have been a part of it,” said Catherine Cadigan of I.E. Weldon Secondary School. “The variety of people and places we travelled to resonated with every student.”
“This was my first time in Ottawa and I am beyond grateful,” added Vaibhavi Marathe of Haliburton Highlands Secondary School. “I know that what I learned here will inspire and help me in the future.”
“It’s not every day that students get a chance to see how our government works,” said St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School student Jakob Peck. “I hope that future students will get the same opportunity, as I believe it will truly benefit each and every one.”
Schmale said the experience would not have been possible without a number of service clubs, legions and local businesses who help make the ‘Capital Experience’ program possible.
“A number of sponsors stepped forward to support a student from their community,” said Schmale. “I want to thank them for helping me to make these young people more aware of the career options available to them.”
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For more information contact:
Jamie Schmale, MP
(705) 324-2400 or (866) 688-9881
