Katie Sieberer, a University of Windsor criminology student, completed three placements through the VIP-Community Service Learning program, experiences that strengthened her commitment to becoming a teacher. (SUBMITTED BY KATIE SIEBERER/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Sometimes, making a difference is as simple as listening to a child, offering encouragement or showing someone that their voice matters.
For University of Windsor criminology student Katie Sieberer, those everyday moments became some of the most meaningful lessons of her university experience, strengthening her commitment to becoming an elementary school teacher.
Through the university's VIP-Community Service Learning (VIP-CSL) program, Sieberer completed three placements at the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women and Families, the Drouillard Place After-School Program and Connections Early Years Family Centre.
Each experience deepened her understanding of the challenges children and families face and the importance of patience, compassion and meaningful relationships.
“When I first signed up for VIP, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others,” said Sieberer. “What I did not expect was how much the experience would influence my own life.”
“One of the biggest things I have learned from VIP is that making a difference does not always require a grand gesture,” she said. “Sometimes it is as simple as taking the time to listen to a child, encouraging them when they are struggling or being genuinely interested in what they have to say.”
Those interactions also helped Sieberer see how the lessons she was learning through volunteering could shape her future career in education.
“These experiences have been particularly meaningful to me as someone who hopes to be an elementary school teacher,” said Sieberer. “They have provided me with the opportunity to step outside the university classroom and learn more about the diverse situations children find themselves in and the importance of approaching each child with compassion and understanding.”
The VIP-CSL program connects UWindsor students with local non-profit organizations, providing opportunities to build career-ready skills, gain practical experience and contribute to the community.
For Sieberer, the connections she formed were among the most rewarding parts of the experience.
“VIP is so special because it allows you to truly get involved in the community,” she said. “You are not just volunteering for the sake of putting in hours or gaining experience for your resumé. You are interacting with people you otherwise may never have crossed paths with.”
As she prepares to complete her undergraduate studies, Sieberer says the lessons she learned through volunteering will remain with her long after graduation.
“My intention for entering into VIP was simply to have an impact on other people, without realizing that it would have an even greater impact on me,” she said. “If there is one thing VIP has taught me, it is that the impact of giving your time to others does not end when your placement does. It stays with you.”
Applications for the Winter 2027 VIP-CSL cohort are open until Nov. 15.
Interested students can learn more and apply through the University of Windsor Career Centre.