Public History Practicum

We are seeking a curious and motivated student to join the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association (ADBA) to support the development of a Downtown Abbotsford Heritage Walking Tour. This practicum offers a unique opportunity for a student interested in local history, heritage interpretation, and community storytelling to help design a walking tour that highlights the historical buildings, people, and stories that have shaped downtown Abbotsford.

Working in collaboration with community partners including The Reach Gallery Museum, Tourism Abbotsford, and Heritage Abbotsford, the student will assist with researching historical sites, identifying compelling stories, and developing a structured tour that can be shared with residents and visitors. The project will involve gathering historical information, consulting with community partners, and helping conceptualize how the tour might be delivered (e.g., guided tours, self-guided maps, or digital resources).

As this project is being developed from the ground up, the student will have the opportunity to contribute creatively to the design and structure of the program, helping to shape how downtown Abbotsford’s history is shared with the community.

This practicum is ideal for a mature or senior student who is passionate about history and community engagement. The ideal candidate is curious, self-motivated, and excited by the opportunity to help develop a new public-facing program from the ground up. This position requires a student with:

·       Strong interest in local history, heritage, or community storytelling

·       Research skills and ability to synthesize historical information

·       Strong written communication skills

·       Ability to think creatively about how historical narratives can be shared with the public

·       Organizational skills and ability to manage a project with guidance

·       Ability to work independently while collaborating with community partners