Cassie Ofner
As a Recreation and Sport Management Diploma co-op student I secured a temporary position as an Aquatic Programmer within the Regional District of Central Kootenay at the Creston and District Community Complex, where I will be working full-time through to [summer].
In this position I manage a team of lifeguards, Swim Instructors and Aquafit Instructors. As a programmer, I create and design programs for the facilities “Leisure Guide” on a seasonal basis, and ensure that our staff are effectively trained and prepared for the scheduled programs. Recently, for the “Fall Leisure Guide” I designed a Saturday Aquafit class and Morning Masters swim program, along with restoring the Junior Lifeguard Club.
As a manger within the recreation sector I have reflected and relied upon a number of courses from my time at VIU. In particular, Human Resources has helped me grasp the hiring process, and the importance and strategies to improve recruitment and retention, as this is a major concern for Aquatic Facilities in small rural communities such as Creston. As a programmer, Economics and Accounting have created a basic understanding of the importance of money, creating a budget and how these can impact an organization. The Leisure and Active Lifestyles class has also influenced me to create quality programs that inspire well being and leisure within the community.
Throughout this summer co-op position, I learnt to believe and have confidence in my abilities and the decisions that I make. Earning a management position at the age of 21 can definitely be overwhelming if I allow it to be. Though regardless of my age, I would consider the way that I work both effective and efficient, as I bring a refreshingly new perspective, and am not afraid to change or adapt my approach in order to create success within my programs and aquatic staff.
Throughout this co-op experience and through the self-reflection activities, I have become more aware of my strengths and areas of improvement, both personally and professionally. Moving forward, this will allow me to develop better strategies in order to become more successful.