Education

TRU Launches Insightful Law Podcast with Legal Perspectives from Practicing Lawyers in Kamloops

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is broadening its commitment to academic innovation and community engagement with the launch of an exciting new podcast focused on law and legal practice. Officially titled The TRU Law Podcast, this podcast is a result of students with an interest in law who want to provide those interested in law a way of consuming content that sparks curiosity. The first episode of this podcast will be released on the 30^th of November.

Image taken from The TRU podcast Instagram

When asked what inspired this passion project, the president of the TRU Law podcast, Ayomide Maxwell, said he was inspired by major law firms like McCarthy Tétrault, Norton Rose Fulbright, and Bennett Jones. Maxwell also shared that the initial goal of the podcast is to focus on recent cases and provide analysis from professors and local lawyers to make legal insight more accessible. With a good balance of perspectives from practiced lawyers in Kamloops as well as law students, the podcast will offer professional insight that is well balanced with academic curiosity.

The podcast serves to bridge the gap between the sometimes intimidating legal world and the world of everyday listening. As Vice President of the podcast, Millie Del Villano highlights, “There is a distinct lack of Law-related podcasts of this type.” Unlike other law podcasts, the TRU Law Podcast will be designed to make law more relatable and comprehensible for a broader audience. Filling a unique niche by presenting legal concepts in a way that is easy to digest for listeners who may not have any prior legal background.  

A podcast offers students a unique and engaging way to digest what might be complex legal information, providing a fresh alternative to the formal law lectures students might otherwise have access to in order to learn about these legal concepts. The use of the podcast medium allows for more flexibility, allowing students to listen at their own pace, revisit key points as needed, or multitask while they are commuting, exercising, or relaxing.

Podcasts being s much more customizable experience, allows students to more seamlessly integrate learning into their daily routines. Which can allow podcasts foster a sense of intimacy and engagement that traditional lecture or lecture-like forms of information delivery may lack. Through informal discussions, humour, and reliable personal experiences that the podcast hosts add in the way they deliver their information, this can make the information more memorable and also create a sense of connection between the host and the listeners. This tone can help when presenting challenging legal principles, making them feel more approachable and relevant to students’ lives.

The podcast format also allows TRU Law Podcast to incorporate more recent real-world examples, which can be more impactful than older ideas and legal cases presented in lectures. Interactive elements like guest speakers or listener-submitted questions contribute to a more dynamic and participatory learning experience. Podcasts offer an innovative way to make learning both engaging and efficient. As Maxwell puts it, “Podcasts appeal to a tech-savvy generation that prefers audio content over traditional formats like books and lectures. They make legal knowledge more accessible and engaging.”

Image taken from The TRU podcast Instagram

When asked how the TRU Law podcast would stay up-to-date with recent legal developments to keep the content relevant, Del Villano said, “We are very lucky to have two amazing research VPs who are skilled at keeping up to date.” Maxwell also added that he is subscribed to newsletters that provide weekly updates on recent cases that he engages in conversation with lawyers across various practice areas, and is an avid listener of many well-renowned law podcasts.

The topics that will be covered on the podcast will be selected by an “executive team” that is composed of people with a passion for law who will pick content and topics that will reflect the interests of the student body. However, a core focus that will remain is that the podcast will be to summarize impactful recent cases. By summarizing recent cases, the podcast will keep students informed about developments that complement what has previously been covered in order to build upon what they have learned. By keeping students informed about the latest developments in law cases, the podcast can help students see how the theoretical learning they have been doing can be applied to real-world legal practices. Beyond law cases, the podcast will cover broader legal topics that resonate with the lived experiences of students.

Tenancy law, for instance, will provide insights into the rights and obligations of a landlord-tenant relationship, addressing common issues students may find themselves facing in their housing arrangements if they choose to live outside of the available dorms on campus. Similarly, immigration law discussions will cater to the diverse student body at TRU, offering practical advice on navigating visa processes, understanding residency requirements, and knowing the legal protections available to international students.

The TRU Law Podcast aims to empower students with the knowledge they can use in their personal lives,  which would allow students to have a sense of preparedness in legal matters that concern them, whether they are aspiring legal professionals or those with a general interest in law. It will not only help to enrich the academic journey while attending TRU.  The hope is that the podcast will improve the listener’s understanding of the legal framework in Canada.

References:

TRU Law podcast President, Ayomide Maxwell

TRU Law Podcast Vice President, Millie Del Villano

The TRU Law Podcast Instargam

With an increasingly competitive job market, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has built a co-op program that provides students with relevant work experience. This program not only equips students with a good resume and cover letter, but it also enhances their ability to thrive in the workforce. Larry Ilesan, Associate Teaching Professor and faculty leader of TRU’s Career and Experimental learning department commented “TRU has crafted a co-op program that offers a practical exposure while empowering students to take control of their career paths.” To gain a fuller perspective on the programs benefits, I spoke with Larry and Quwamdeen Ajibola Iribigbe, a recent co-op student who gained hands on experience in Alberta’s logistics industry.

According to Larry, the co-op program at TRU addresses a critical need for students to acquire external work experience in line with their current program on study and their career goals. “The worst thing a student can do is graduate without any real experience outside the university”, he emphasises, that the co-op bridges a gap between theoretical learning and practical application. With the co-op experience, students can get a feel the real-world environment, learning to apply their academic knowledge in settings that demand adaptability, problem solving and professionalism. However, Larry noted that the co-op program doesn’t directly “place” students in roles. Instead, TRU has developed an innovative approach to help students find positions themselves, fostering independence and proactive decision making. Through career connections, TRU’s exclusive job-matching platform, organizations across Canada post positions that align with the co-op curriculum, allowing students to choose opportunities that fit their aspirations. “Co-op empowers students to take control of their careers and actively engage with the job market,” says Larry, adding that this aspect is essential for students in post-graduation challenges.

Recent TRU co-op student Quwamdeen Ajibola Ibiribigbe provides a fascinating perspective on how these experiences can influence a student’s future career. Quwamdeen was fully involved in the fast-paced world of logistics during his co-op time with Trimac Transportation in Alberta. To support dispatch operations, he had to track deliveries, organize shipments and keep lines of communications open with clients and drivers. As he considers his everyday duties, Quwamdeen emphasizes the value of clear communication and attention to detail. He says, “In order to prevent delays and inform clients of shipment statuses, I had to keep a close eye on routes” “From adjusting to unforeseen traffic conditions to making sure that all shipments were executed smoothly, everyday presented new challenges”. The experience strengthened his confidence and expanded professional skill set, giving him a competitive edge he might not have developed otherwise. Quwamdeen’s story underscores the transformative nature of the co-op experience, where theory meets practice and students gain insights that align with their career paths.

TRU’s co-op program goes beyond job placements – it is a well-coordinated system of partnerships across diverse industries. Larry explains that the university maintains steady relationships with a broad network of companies through regular outreach efforts, faculty participation at industry events, and direct communication with employers. These partnerships ensure a continuous influx of co-op opportunities for students in various fields, from technology and healthcare to logistics and finance. “it’s essential to build credibility with employers, and TRU’s accreditation in co-operative education assures them of the programs quality,” he adds. This longstanding tradition of work-integrated learning positions TRU’s co-op program as a vital resource for students seeking to break into competitive fields. This program has been operational since 1992. The department has three elements to it and not just the CO-OP program, this includes career services and experimental learning – It is open to all students that have the option in their program of study. Students are not chosen, they apply and based on availability and other factors are admitted into the Co-op program. 

The variety of industry partners also highlights the adaptability of TRU’s co-op program. Larry points out that co-op isn’t limited to a specific sector; rather it severs as an entry point or hub into multiple industries, allowing students to explore into multiple industries, allowing students to explore and refine their interests. From companies that require tech-savvy problem solvers to those needing hands-on management skills, TRU’s program aligns students with organisations that match their goals, ultimately broadening their careers horizons.

For many students, enrolling in co-op can be seen as daunting, as it often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Larry notes that one of the most common challenges for TRU students is the need to relocate outside Kamloops for placements or to build confidence to apply for highly competitive positions. However, TRUs faculty members are committed to helping students overcome these obstacles, providing personalize support through one-on-one sessions. “We work closely with each student to help them overcome location-related concerns, enhance their skills and build the confidence the need to pursue ambitious goals,” Larry says. Quwamdeens journey reflects this faculty support, as his coordinator provided guidance and encouragement, helping him tackle the demands of his Alberta placements. This guidance was instrumental in helping him take on the responsibility of a demanding logistics role, and he credits his coordinators support for helping him overcome the initial apprehension of working far from home.

TRU’s co-op program is designed not only to place students in jobs but to fully equip them for professional success. Before beginning their placements, each co-op student must complete a 13-week career management course which is worth 1 credit. This course prepares students with resume building strategies, job search techniques and interview skills. Larry explains that this preparation is essential, as it ensures that students enter the job market with confidence and are ready to meet employer expectations. Once on the job, co-op students will continue to receive support through regular check-ins with faculty coordinators and even a site visit is possible. This helps students to reflect on their experience, navigate workplace challenges, and refine their skills. These touch points ensure that the transition from classroom learning to workplace application is smooth and constructive.” Our role is to help students not just secure positions but to also thrive in them,” Larry explains, emphasizing that co-op is as much about learning and growth as it is about gaining experience.

As Larry suggests, “Students need to graduate with experience that makes them stand out in today’s labor market.” Co-op gives many people the chance to explore a variety of disciplines, validate their career routes, and establish a professional network at an early stage. Larry highlights that students who wish to prosper after graduation must now have relevant work experience; it is no longer a choice. He emphasizes the value of work-integrated learning by saying, “Students across the country are doing this, and they need to be competitive.”

Quwamdeen also gives guidance to people who are thinking about co-ops but aren’t sure. He explains how his work in logistics helped him see how his education applied in the real world and opened his eyes to new career options. He urges students who might be hesitant to embrace co-op to take is as a journey of self-discovery. “You learn so much about yourself, about what you’re capable of, and about where you want to go,” he reflects.  

The co-op program at TRU has grown to be a crucial component of the university’s curriculum, preparing students for a workforce that prioritizes preparation, flexibility, and real-world experience. The curriculum serves as a link between classroom education and career success rather than just a stepping stone. According to Larry and Quwamdeen’s experiences, co-op at TRU is more than simply a choice for students; it’s a life-changing experience that gives them the abilities, perspectives, and self-assurance they need to succeed in their chosen industries.

As the need for work-integrated learning increases, TRU’s co-op program keeps developing, giving students a competitive advantage and a worthwhile chance to obtain practical experience. The success of the co-op program demonstrates the university’s dedication to students’ development, fortitude, and preparedness for the workforce, opening doors for graduates.

Quwamdeen Ajibola Ibiribigbe- current TRU student.

TRU Club season has begun and a number of clubs were at the Club Fair in September; among them the Communications and Journalism club. The clubs are an important part of the TRU experience, however, there are still many students not yet part of any club missing on becoming part of their TRU community. As one of the newest clubs, the Communications and Journalism club held its first meeting on October 3rd and has plans for more events throughout the semester, offering just a glimpse of how campus clubs help keep students engaged and connected.

Thompson Rivers University’s clubs have started as the semester gets going, during September a number of different clubs were posted outside Old Main for students to join up with what best fits them. One of the newest clubs was among the posted clubs, the Communications and Journalism club; made for old and new students that are part of the communications or Journalism major to join in order to make friends, connect and have fun. Clubs are an integral part of the university experience all over the world, they allow students to find like minded people and create a community within their majors; this is no different here at Kamloops. Nevertheless, there are a number of students that have yet to take the step and join their destined club. In a recent interview: Aibiike Alymova the president of the Communications and Journalism club, discussed the importance of the club, their plans and more. During the interview it was revealed the origins of the club and how it became what we know now.

“So the journalism communications club originally started off as peer mentorship. It was a group of six people that we were peer mentoring for the program. Specifically when we started, it was Bachelor of Arts, majoring Communications, offering new media and PR, but we decided to expand more on our kind of field and get more people involved in it.”

The club is just at its beginning, it has a plethora of new ideas and activities for students that are eager to make friends and hangout with students with similar interests. The club is exploring the different activities that can be organized to engage students, such as a movie night featuring journalism related films. According to the club president, these activities can be a great way for students to spend an evening in Kamloops, especially if they’re looking for a fun different night. Clubs all over campus are not just “for fun”, but also to grow as a student and as a person, the Communications Clubs is no different as it allows members to grow and learn more about their major. Alymova emphasizes the advantages of clubs, by offering students valuable connections with other students and professionals:

“It’s mostly about networking because, for example, we have one of our alumni, Madeline. She works for the Chamber of Commerce. And just like the fact that younger students can chat to Madeline about how she started off her degree, and how she was going through her path.” 

Aibiike Alymova explains how clubs such as the communication and journalism club also prioritize collaborating with professionals, in order to offer unique experiences for students: 

“Last year we had, like an open class, because there was a class called decolonizing journalism, and people within, like an indigenous newspaper came in to speak, and our club got to collaborate with them, like they made it an open class for like anyone to drop in, drop out, not even like the people who are participating in the class. So also, we have Jennifer Kramka, who is willing to give like talk to CBC Kamloops, to give us, like a tour around CBC Kamloops, so that’s how we’re collaborating with professionals for now.” 

Students all over campus new and old, are still doubting on joining their respective clubs or just joining something that interests them. Students are missing out on finding a group of like minded individuals, taking the leap of faith and joining a club in their university that best suits them. Joining clubs during university years yields great advantages for students and their experience during their time away from home, it offers students opportunities for networking, personal growth, and collaboration on exciting projects. Here’s what Alymova had to say for students having second thoughts: 

“If you’re not sure about joining it, try attending one of our like events or meetings, if you like it. We’re always looking forward towards new people. But I want to say that it is a great opportunity, because I don’t think that the journalism and communications department is that big, and it’s very important to like, know people within your degree.” 

Clubs are an amazing opportunity to meet new people, find activities that interest you and find opportunities within your major or just something that interests you. TRU is filled with clubs that can help students find friends, network and have fun. The Communications club isn’t the only club available, there are clubs for Computer Science students, Anime Club, Latin Club and more. Each filled with similar members that will welcome anyone willing to join.