Quebec students offer employers unique cultural perspective

June 3, 2008

Quebec students offer employers unique cultural perspective

Hiring an exchange student from Quebec is a win-win situation for employers and students this summer.

This year, 22 students from la Belle Province are taking part in the Languages at Work Program at Douglas College. The students immerse themselves in the English language and culture while providing employers with a 60 percent savings on wages.

Employers get the added bonus of having someone with a different cultural perspective join their team. For many this translates to new, fresh ideas, says Languages at Work Project Officer Alexis Carr.

Several Lower Mainland businesses, from the YMCA Langara to Deep Cove Kayak, have enjoyed the project so much, they have signed up to participate again this year.

The funding to employers is provided by Heritage Canada, and reaches a maximum of $5.40 per hour based on 60 percent of a $9 hourly wage.

Having a French-speaking employee improves customer service, particularly for businesses attracting tourists in the busy summer season.

This year's students have varied backgrounds, ranging from the leisure and tourism industry to medical school. One, who has post-graduate studies under his belt, has worked with the United Nations.

Students taking part in the program say their major motivation is building their English skills, while living on their own in a completely different culture.

"Students have told me you can find work in Quebec just speaking French, but opportunities open enormously if you do speak English," says Carr.

For more information, please contact Alexis Carr at 604-527-5175 or carra@douglas.bc.ca.

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