Co-op Work Term 1, Summer 2023

Summary:
As a Student Border Services Officer (SBSO) at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), I contributed to ensuring Canada’s border security by assisting in the inspection of travelers and goods, as well as engaging with the public in a professional manner. My work enhanced the CBSA’s operations, directly contributing to national safety and effective border control.

Full Description:
During my time as an SBSO, I was involved in key operations at a variety of border entry points, where I gained hands-on experience in customs and immigration processes. I worked with seasoned Border Services Officers (BSOs) to carry out tasks aimed at maintaining national security while facilitating the legitimate flow of people and goods. My role required a keen eye for detail and the ability to work under pressure in dynamic environments.

Key Accomplishments:

1. Conducted thorough interviews and inspections of travelers and their declarations, ensuring compliance with Canadian border security standards and contributing to the effective processing of approximately 10,000 passengers during peak travel periods.
2. Assisted in the examination of goods, identifying discrepancies and facilitating the enforcement of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Customs Act, among others.
3. Educated travelers on regulations and procedures in a professional and approachable manner, improving public understanding of border security processes.

General Learning Significance:
This work term was an invaluable learning experience that enhanced my ability to function in high-pressure environments while maintaining a high standard of professionalism. I honed my problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking skills. My role reinforced the importance of attention to detail, as well as the need for diplomacy and effective decision-making in law enforcement settings. It also highlighted the significance of continuous learning and adaptability in a role that impacts public safety and security on a global scale. This experience further confirmed my interest in law enforcement and public safety administration.

Reflections:
Reflecting on how this experience aligns with my desire to pursue a career in immigration policy, I realized the significance of border security in the broader context of immigration systems. This position enhanced my understanding of the critical role customs officers play in the movement of people and goods, further fueling my interest in the policies and legal frameworks that govern immigration.

I gained a deeper understanding of how immigration trends and patterns constantly evolve. I saw firsthand how policies must adapt to shifting global movements, and this experience highlighted how immigration issues are ever-changing.

Overall, I realized the value of frontline work in shaping my long-term career in immigration policy. Engaging directly with travelers and dealing with their inquiries allowed me to see firsthand the real-world implications of immigration policies and customs regulations. This experience was essential in laying a foundation for the more behind-the-scenes policy work I aim to pursue. Understanding the public’s challenges and needs at the border provided invaluable insight into how policies can be designed and refined to meet evolving immigration trends, making my role as an SBSO an important step toward a career in immigration policy.