Biomedical Engineering Technology grad credits hands-on learning at DC for lasting impact on his career

Graduate spotlight: Priyansh Maheshwari

A hands-on approach to learning, including a successful field placement, has helped Durham College (DC) Biomedical Engineering Technology graduate Priyansh Maheshwari launch his career.

An international student from India, Maheshwari pursued his program straight out of high school after the program outline sparked his interest. He explains biomedical engineering technologists are responsible for looking after medical equipment in hospitals or field service settings including repair, maintenance and procurement and ensuring equipment meets standards set by Health Canada.

“During my time at Durham College, I gained invaluable skills and knowledge that set the foundation for my career in biomedical engineering technology,” he said. “The hands-on learning approach, combined with strong academic support provided to me by my mentors, allowed me to excel in both technical and practical aspects of the field.”

Prior to graduating, Maheshwari completed an eight-week placement at Niagara Health.

“I especially appreciated the opportunity to participate in a field placement program at the end of my term where I applied my learning to real-world challenges, performing inspections and repairs on medical equipment in a hospital setting.”

In addition to gaining experience through his field placement, Maheshwari said he also made connections that served as a reference for him and helped him land a job with Vancouver Island Health Authority.

“I am enjoying my experience here and I love to apply what I have learned,” he said. “At some point, my target is medical sales and both my time at DC and my current role are preparing me for it.”

During his time as a student, Maheshwari worked on campus as a Test Centre Assistant and a Biomedical Laboratory Assistant building work experience but also creating opportunities for him to meet new people and make friends.

“I worked on campus during my school years and the colleagues that I worked with are amazing people, I love them and honestly its their support which has helped me grow further everyday. Being a part of the Test Center team was one of the most cherished memories of DC.”


From classroom to career: Brittany Andrey’s journey through the Autism and Behavioural Sciences program at Durham College

Graduate spotlight: Brittany Andrey

Brittany Andrey was ready for the excitement and challenges of the world of academics after a break. Despite initial nerves, Brittany quickly found her footing in Durham College’s (DC) Autism and Behavioural Sciences (ATBS) graduate certificate program and discovered a passion that would propel her toward a rewarding career in the field.

“I hadn’t been in school for a couple years before starting the program, so I was a little nervous in the beginning,” she shares. “But those nerves quickly faded as I began learning and becoming more passionate about the field.”

Brittany credits her instructors for easing her transition back into student life and helping her build meaningful relationships along the way. “I learned so much from my wonderful instructors and made some really great friends.”

Since completing her credential, Brittany is thriving in her new role as an Educational Assistant and Academic Strategist, supporting students at DC — a role that has given her an opportunity to put her skills into action. When reflecting on how DC prepared her for this career, Brittany points to the invaluable guidance she received from her instructors and the hands-on experience she gained during her field placements.

“Being taught by professionals in the field helped prepare me a lot. They were always willing to answer questions, give advice, and share their experiences. This was also my first time completing field placements, and getting the chance to practice the skills we learned in a real-world setting was key to preparing me for the workforce.”

Brittany’s enthusiasm for learning doesn’t stop with her recent accomplishments. With a bachelor’s degree in forensic psychology already under her belt, she’s looking ahead to exploring the fascinating overlap between the fields of forensic psychology and behavioural sciences.

For those considering the ATBS program, Brittany offers encouraging advice: “It’s okay if you don’t know much about autism or don’t have experience with neurodivergent folks. This program prepares you and provides you with the necessary skills to work in the field.”


Every year, DC celebrates thousands of career-ready graduates. Read more grad stories and how DC has helped them thrive.


Lead the way in your future career with experiential learning at DC

Experiential learning opportunities are designed to help enhance your skills, provide networking opportunities and gain valuable real-world work experience, all before graduation. At Durham College (DC), we prioritize hands-on learning because it ensures that you have the knowledge, skills and experience to lead the way in your career.

From work-integrated learning to field placements to co-ops, many different types of hands-on learning give you a range of experiences. To help answer your questions and to get inspired, read on for our most popular blog posts and stories that dive deeper into this topic and meet some of our students who are thriving and career-ready as a result of experiential learning!

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Have a specific question about experiential learning? Email co-op@durhamcollege.ca to connect with a member of the Experiential Learning team today!