Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who Is It For?

The program is for anyone legally entitled to work in Canada. You do not have to be collecting government benefits to take the Pathways Program. Our statistics show that we have approximately equal numbers of men and women participating, and that their ages range from 18 to 72, with the majority being in the mid career stage (30 to 50 years of age). We have worked with people from all career backgrounds, from labourers to bank managers; from women who have worked exclusively within their homes, to students just leaving high school. Pathways is for people who are undecided about their career direction because they do not have enough information about labour market opportunities, or about their own skills and attributes, or about how these two pieces fit together.

2. What Do I Get Out Of It?

You get time dedicated to analyzing yourself and the labour market in order to make the best possible decision about your future career. You also get the support of experts in the field of career planning and career decision-making. Upon completion of the program, you will have covered all the bases in the career planning process, and will leave with a plan of action for your short and long term career goals that takes into account your real life: your family commitments, your financial capabilities, and your own learning styles and personality preferences. Pathways is an investment in yourself.

3. How Do I Get Into It?

You can get into The Pathways Program through a referral from a Case Management Agency. If you are not presently working with a Case Manager, give us a call and we will connect you with the appropriate agency.

If you are just curious about the program or are undecided about whether or not it is right for you, call or drop by our office at any time and we will be happy to answer your questions and give you a tour of our centre.

4. Do I Have To Know How To Use A Computer?

You do not have to have any prior computer experience or know-how to do the Pathways Program. If you so choose, we will provide as much individual support and instruction as you need to feel comfortable using the Internet for conducting your own career research. If you have never sat in front of a computer before, you will leave the Pathways Program with a new skill!

5. How Much Work Is It? What Can I Expect?

We know you have a full life, with other responsibilities and commitments outside Pathways. There is reading and writing to do while in the program. However, Pathways is not like high school. Our staff members are trained to teach adults, and adults have different learning needs than children. Many of the people taking Pathways have not been in a classroom setting for decades, and we recognize that re-entering the learning environment can be scary. We will provide as much help and support as you need. As with any learning activity, the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it.

6. What If I Find A Job During The Pathways Program?

Congratulations! That’s what Pathways is all about—helping you to become employed! In the meantime, any time you are able to spend in the program will help you feel more prepared and confident for your new job.

7. What Will I Do With My Kids While I’m Taking Pathways?

If you have childcare needs while you’re attending the program, we will guide you in completing an application for a Childcare Subsidy. Alternatively, if you are eligible, there are funds available through the Pathways Program to help you pay for childcare or eldercare arrangements. When you apply for the program, tell one of the Pathways staff members about your daycare needs. If you meet eligibility requirements, they will work with you to help you get the funding you need.

8. How Will I Get There?

Whether you take the bus or drive your own vehicle, there are funds available to help offset the expenses of bus fare, gasoline or parking for eligible participants. If you are traveling in from outside of Kamloops, you may qualify for additional funding to help cover your added travel costs. Talk to a Pathways staff member about your transportation costs when you apply for the program.

9. I Have Special Considerations. How Will I Deal With These During Pathways?

People often come to Pathways because they have something that is specifically affecting their career choice, such as a physical impairment or injury, lack of work experience, or a learning disability. Maybe they have been fired or downsized, and are enduring anxiety in employment interviews. Whatever the concern, you can be assured that the staff at Pathways will work with you with the utmost discretion and will treat you with dignity and respect—the way we like to be treated ourselves!

10. I Want To Go To School. I Know Exactly What I Want To Do. Why Should I Do The Pathways Program First?

Pathways helps you to explore many possible careers. Sometimes people make a choice about further training even though they haven’t fully researched all their options. Your Case Manager may suggest Pathways to ensure that you are investing your valuable school funds on the best possible choice for you.