D Ross

I have worked as a City of Edmonton Lifeguard for the past ten years. Lifeguarding has taught me many skills that would be advantageous in a Disability Case Manager. As a lifeguard, I resolve conflicts peacefully and navigate many cultural backgrounds. Part of my current job is working alongside other emergency services, including the police. Being a visible face of the city means that I do not just have to be comfortable with public speaking but be eloquent–even in stressful situations because this can reflect poorly on myself and the city. I am accustomed to writing many different reports as part of my administrative duties, so paperwork is nothing new. As one of the more senior lifeguards in the city, training new staff and directing them is part of my responsibility to ensure the pool continues to run smoothly.

My educational background integrates both psychology and physical/occupational therapy. As part of my time in the PTA/OTA program, I learned to work with various age groups and various physical and mental conditions. Writing chart notes was part of my placements; my daily responsibility was documenting progress. My psychology degree focused on Forensic and Neurological Psychology. Forensic Psychology focuses on how psychology interacts with the criminal justice system, rather than a Criminal Minds approach, as some might assume.

Part-Time Provisional Lifeguard at the City of Edmonton, April 2012-present.

Duties include ensuring the safety of customers and staff using the facilities, reacting to emergency conditions as needed

• Identify and assess hazards on an ongoing basis
• Prepare and Submit administrative reports
• Maintaining good public relations
• Monitoring pool chemistry and making changes accordingly
• Provide direction to other staff in a supervisory role

I’ve recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science with a major in Psychology and a minor in Classics from MacEwan University. As part of my Psychology degree, I have worked on case studies involving at-risk groups and provided analysis of mechanisms for healing.

My Physical and Occupational Therapy Assistant Diploma from MacEwan University prepared me to work alongside medical professionals in a hospital and clinical setting. Aiding the Therapist in assessment and writing reports was essential to my education as part of the practicum component. Providing treatment interventions related to movement and function alongside other medical professionals and maintaining a good work rapport was beneficial in this area.