Between classes: Noreen Chiu

Disability and Applied Behaviour Analysis

Noreen Chiu

has a healthy dose of skepticism.

Education:

• Disability and Applied Behaviour Analysis (DABA) Advanced Citation, 2010
• current student, Master's Special Education (UBC)

Currently:

Behavioural Consultant working with young children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder

Career goals:

To continue to provide support to children with autism and their families, to empower them to advocate for their needs, and to assist them in effectively integrating into the education system. 

Personal goals:

To grow as a well-rounded individual and develop the skills needed to lead a balanced life and handle the stress and emotions associated with this career. 

Hometown:

Hong Kong

High school:

Burnaby North Secondary School

In five years

I will be finished my Master’s in Special Education and have obtained my Board Certified Behaviour Analyst certification.

If I could turn back time,

I would tell my 17-year-old self: “Don’t say no to any opportunities that arise. You never know where they may lead you.” 

Getting into the field

To gain some experience during university, I took a part-time job working with a couple of children with autism. That was my first introduction into the world of autism and I was immediately fascinated by it.

The right step

I first heard about the DABA program at a professional workshop on the topic “The Future of Behaviour Consultancy in Autism Treatment.” Certification is becoming increasingly important in the field, and Douglas is one of the few institutions in the country to offer the required coursework for me to pursue a Board Certified Associate Behaviour Analyst designation.

The benefits

The best thing about Douglas College was that I could work full-time while pursuing my education. This was particularly important for the field that I am in, as practical on-the-job experience is crucial. The other great thing was the diversity of students in my program.  Learning from peers from different backgrounds gave me a much broader perspective. 

The tough times

Finding a balance between school, full-time work and life. It was challenging, but at the end of the day, it has taught me valuable management skills.

Links:

Information Sessions
Disability and Applied Behaviour Analysis
More feature stories

Published February 11, 2010