Application Process

The deadline for applications is November 20, 2023.

Completed applications must be postmarked or received at the address below on or before this date.

  • After a selection committee reviews the applications, there will be an interview process
  • All applicants will be notified by the end of November
  • Within 10 days of receiving notification, applicants are asked to commit to the project by submitting a $500 non-refundable deposit payable to the University of Alberta
  • Applicants must acknowledge that they will be responsible for the total costs (estimated to be approximately $5500 plus tuition). Typically the team engages in fundraising activities to supplement or, in past years, cover the costs, but students must be prepared to pay the entire cost if funds are not raised.
  • Applicants are responsible for having an up-to-date criminal record check. 
  • Applicants are required to complete first aid training by March 1
  • Opportunities for fund raising will be available to students. The PAW project has a history of great success in raising most of the funds needed in advance of travel.
Application forms and checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
  • Two references

The composition of the teams will be decided by the leadership team and selection committee. Students will be informed regarding the current year service-learning locations as soon as possible upon acceptance to PAW.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

  • Application Requirements

    1. Transcript - attach a copy of your transcript of your marks to your application. This can be an unofficial one printed from Bear Tracks.

    2. Resume - (point form is acceptable) listing the educational, work and volunteer experiences that support your eligibility as per the selection criteria.Provide details such as:

    • course name
    • length of time of educational, work, and/or volunteer experiences
    • description of duties and responsibilities
    • performance evaluation etc.

    3. Personal Statement - 500 words or less, indicating and substantiating how your personal and interpersonal skills and qualities (relating to part B) would be valuable to this project. Where possible give examples or evidence of these abilities.

    4. References

    • Please provide two professional or academic references from people who know you well. . (Please do not use family members or personal acquaintances.)
    • Provide your referees with a copy of the Play Around the World Information Sheet and reference forms to ensure they have an understanding of the nature of the project.
    • After completing the form and writing a letter, referee's can email directly to Mary Ann Rintoul (mrintoul@ualberta.ca).
    • One of the referees should be someone who has supervised you in your experiences working with children/youth or who has seen you work as part of a team.
  • Selection Criteria
    • Completion of two years of post-secondary work in a related field.
    • Knowledge of theory and research in play, physical activity/education for the special populations served by the Play Around the World Project
    • A grade point average of 2.3 or higher for the last 12 months of academic study.
    • Experience in working effectively with individuals and/or groups in play, physical activity and recreational settings.
    • Experience working collaboratively and effectively within a team (e.g. leadership, followership, communication skills)
    • Experience in related areas such as:
      • physical education
      • therapeutic recreation
      • developmental psychology
      • early childhood and special education
      • dance
      • drama, etc.
    • Demonstrated qualities such as:
      • initiative,
      • adaptability,
      • compassion,
      • respect for diversity and
      • dedication to purpose
Important Information