Through the office of Experiential Learning and Career Development, Mount Allison University partners with Future NB, an initiative which fosters collaborative relationships with education and business leaders to provide students with experiential learning opportunities.

Thanks in part to this relationship, Emily was given an opportunity to connect with Open Sky Co-Operative. Located in Sackville, Open Sky Co-Op is a community-based charitable organization that provides supports for adults with a disability experiencing barriers due to disability, such as autism spectrum disorder, or mental health challenges. For Emily, the experience with Open Sky Co-Operative gave her an opportunity to both add to her education in psychology and gain important professional skills.

“During my time working at Open Sky Co-Operative, I learned about the importance of community-based programming in mental health initiatives,” says Escoffery. “I investigated the role that nature plays in therapeutic programming and increased my awareness of trauma informed approaches in psychology. This first-hand experience enhanced my leadership and communicative skills within a professional context.”