Student-led tax services offer beyond the classroom experience

In a year that’s been like no other, Lakeland College students continue to adapt and persevere so they can apply their education in real-life work settings.

Students in Lakeland’s business administration diploma accounting major are once again offering free tax services for seniors, students, low-income families and newcomers to Canada with some new conditions.

“This year has been a little different because we’re collecting client tax information at drop-off locations around Lloydminster. Normally, we would get to hear client stories while completing their tax return, which is something I miss,” says Julia Cawley, a business administration student who is volunteering at the tax clinics for a second time.

In groups of three, students have been preparing tax returns at the Legacy Centre in Lloydminster every Saturday since March 6 and will continue until April 24.

“It's still a fantastic experience to give back to the community while getting hands-on experience for the real world. Being able to take my education and putting it to good use by giving back to the community is fulfilling,” Cawley adds.

Eligible persons can drop off their information for review and tax preparation at the Legacy Centre and Synergy Credit Union in Lloydminster. Lakeland students can also drop off their tax information at the Lloydminster campus. This community initiative is offered in partnership with the Lloydminster Senior Citizen Society and Family and Community Support Services Lloydminster.

Lakeland student Brenda Carpentier, who is volunteering for the first time, says the tax clinic experience is significant in her skill development. “You can learn so much more from experience than you can from a book. It’s been a great experience so far because I’m working with experienced CPAs (Chartered Professional Accountants), and our instructors are guiding us with support which boosts our confidence.”

In 2019, Lakeland students prepared 662 tax returns. Carpentier believes they will surpass that number under the current format. She says she averaged six tax preparations in three hours.

For more information, call Erin Bandola, Lakeland College at 780.871.5433 or Carrie Pollard, Legacy Centre, at 780.875.4584.

Photos: (Top) Brenda Carpentier, a student in Lakeland's business administration diploma accounting major, prepares tax returns on March 16 during the free community tax service. (Bottom) Students prepare tax returns on March 16 during the free community tax service.