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Launching into a career in fire prevention

Graduate Spotlight: Danica Burg

It’s fair to say that Danica Burg has made the most of her Durham College (DC) experience.

She excelled in the Fire Prevention and Technology program, from which she’ll graduate at Convocation in June. Outside of class, she joined the student volunteers of the Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) who respond to medical emergencies year-round.

With her time at DC winding down, she spoke to us about the support she received here, preparing for the next challenge, and a future in fire prevention.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

At first, being close to home was definitely a factor for me, but what really stood out was the Fire Prevention program itself. It was brand new, which made it feel really exciting, and once I learned more about it and spoke with the program coordinator, it just felt like the right fit. It aligned with exactly what I wanted to do, and I had a good feeling that it would open a lot of opportunities for me and it really has.

What was your DC experience like?

My time at DC was honestly full of opportunities. Beyond the classroom, I got to be part of the Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT), which was huge for building real-world skills. And doing my co-op with Clarington Fire really gave me a taste of the field. It felt like each step, whether in class, with CERT, or in co-op just opened more doors and helped me feel prepared for what’s next. Overall, it wasn’t just a college experience, it was a launchpad.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

Durham College has prepared me in a really well-rounded way. The professors have been amazing! They bring so much real-world experience, and they always push us to think practically. In class, we worked through scenarios that reflect what we’ll see on the job. Plus, my co-op and involvement with CERT gave me hands-on skills. So, I feel like it’s been a combination of strong classroom learning and real-world practice that’s getting me ready to step into my career with confidence.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Yeah, I definitely would. I feel like it’s one of those programs where you actually get out what you put into it. There are so many opportunities, whether it’s co-op, certifications, or just learning from instructors who have real experience in the field. It doesn’t just teach you the basics, it actually helps you build a path into your career.

What is your advice for future students?

I’d say take advantage of everything you can while you’re here. Go for the co-op, get involved, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there a bit. Some of the best experiences I had came from just saying yes to opportunities, even if I was a little nervous at first.

What do you love most about DC?

Honestly, the opportunities and the support. It’s the kind of place where if you’re willing to get involved, a lot of doors can open for you. The instructors really care and want to see you succeed, and the environment makes it easy to grow your confidence and try new things.

How do you feel about graduating?

It’s a mix of excitement and nerves. I’ve been in school for so long that heading into the workforce feels like a big step. But I can say I feel prepared. DC gave me the tools I need, so now it’s just about taking that leap.

What are your future goals?

My biggest goal is to get hired by a fire department—ideally in a public education or fire prevention role, because I love the idea of making an impact before emergencies happen. And beyond that, I’ve got some travel dreams—I want to explore a bit of the world while building my career.

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

Finding the recipe for success at Durham College

Graduate Spotlight: Yanni Paran

While Yanni Paran was immersing herself in the Culinary Management program at Durham College (DC), the international student was also adapting to a new country and culture in Canada. With the help of family and her mentors at DC, she found a home for herself and took the first steps on the path to owning her own restaurant.

Before she moves across the country to launch her career out west, she looked back at her DC experience and the people who made her time here both memorable and successful.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I chose Durham College mainly because it was close to my aunt’s house, where I lived when I first arrived in Canada in July 2024. As an international student, that really helped me adjust since I didn’t have to worry about housing right away.

Later on, I decided to move out and rent my own place because I prefer having my own space, but I’m really glad I chose Durham. The environment here is very welcoming, and the chefs are very approachable and supportive. They also showed a lot of understanding during a difficult time in my life when my aunt got sick and passed away earlier this year. That kind of support meant a lot to me and made my experience here more meaningful.

What was your DC experience like?

My experience at Durham College has been really positive. As an international student, I didn’t know what to expect at first, but I ended up feeling very comfortable here.

One thing I really appreciated is how supportive the chefs are, not just in class, but even outside of school. For example, one of my chefs actually helped me find a summer job when I was eligible to work full-time. I asked him if he knew any opportunities, and he recommended me to someone he knows in the catering industry at the Ajax Convention Centre. I’m really grateful for that. It showed me that if you show effort, respect, and willingness to learn, the chefs are willing to support you and even help you with job opportunities.

What was your favorite thing about your program?

My favorite part of the program is the hands-on learning. Being in the kitchen, practicing techniques, and working under pressure helped me improve a lot.

I also really appreciate the chefs. They are not only skilled but also patient and approachable. I never felt scared to ask questions, which made learning easier and more enjoyable.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

The program prepared me by giving me both technical skills and real-world experience. I learned proper kitchen techniques, organization, and how to work efficiently in a team environment.

I was also able to complete my field placement at Aloette Restaurant, which is a Michelin-recommended restaurant. That experience gave me a better understanding of professional kitchen standards and helped build my confidence before entering the industry.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Yes, I would definitely recommend it. The program gives you a good mix of theory and hands-on experience, and the chefs genuinely support their students. They don’t just teach, you can really feel that they want you to succeed, especially when it comes to building your future career.

What is your advice for future students?

My advice would be to take initiative and build good relationships with your chefs. If you show that you’re willing to learn and work hard, they will notice and can even help you with opportunities in the future. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes. That’s how you improve.

What do you love most about DC?

What I love most about DC is the people, especially the chefs. They are very supportive, patient, and approachable. As an international student, that made a big difference for me because it helped me feel more comfortable and confident while studying far from home.

How do you feel about graduating?

I feel proud and grateful. It hasn’t always been easy balancing school, work, and personal challenges, but finishing this program feels very rewarding. At the same time, I feel excited because it’s the start of a new chapter in my life.

What are your future goals?

After graduation, I’ll be moving to Banff, Alberta to work as a cook at a resort. I’m excited to gain more experience and continue learning in a professional kitchen. In the future, I hope to grow in the culinary industry and eventually open my own restaurant.

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

Building the foundation of a career in the trades

Graduate Spotlight: Joseph Dooher

For Joseph Dooher, a career in the trades is a family matter. His father runs his own handyman business, and Joseph’s goal is to do the same. With that in mind, he has completed the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program at Durham College and is ready to collect his diploma at Convocation in June.

With the future on his mind, Joseph spoke to us about the value of a hands-on education and why learning more than one trade is so important.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I chose Durham College because of its proximity to home, but more importantly because of the Carpentry and Renovation program. Prior to this, I completed a year in mechanical engineering. While I performed well academically, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands, and the hands-on, varied nature of this program immediately stood out. The opportunity to learn multiple trades within one well-rounded program made DC the right choice for me.

What was your DC experience like?

Overall, my experience at DC was very positive. My classes were engaging, and I appreciated the strong focus on teamwork and collaboration. While field work placements could be challenging to secure, they provided valuable, real-world, on-the-job experience. Outside of the classroom, there were plenty of opportunities to get involved socially. It made me feel very welcomed.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

The combination of knowledgeable professors, hands-on projects, teamwork, and field work has prepared me well for the next step in my career. I gained practical skills such as providing customer quotes, understanding permit laws and applications, job site safety, and proper tool use. Learning how to work effectively with others on real projects has been especially valuable. Overall, the program offers a well-rounded experience that closely reflects real-world industry expectations.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Absolutely. I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in the trades, especially if they’re unsure about focusing on one specific area right away. The variety within the program allows you to explore different aspects of the trades and quickly discover what you enjoy most. That experience is incredibly beneficial when starting your career.

What is your advice for future students?

My advice would be to take full advantage of everything DC has to offer. This includes meeting new people, using on-campus facilities like the gym, exploring food options, participating in social activities, and building relationships with professors. I would also strongly recommend making good use of the DC Connect platform, as it provides valuable resources such as study materials, lessons, examples, and calendars that help you stay organized and on track throughout the semester.

What do you love most about DC?

What I love most is the sense of community. I made friendships that I expect will last a lifetime, and I truly felt like I belonged. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and will always be proud to be a DC graduate.

How do you feel about graduating?

I feel both excited and a little sad as I approach graduation. I’ll miss the day-to-day interactions with my professors, several of whom had a strong impact on my learning and personal growth. I’m grateful for the opportunities I had to learn from them and wish I had even more time to do so.

What are your future goals?

For the past five years, I’ve worked alongside my father in his handyman business. As he prepares to retire, my long-term goal is to eventually run my own business, following in his footsteps. In the short term, I want to continue gaining real-world experience. I’ve been volunteering with the Canadian Tank Museum for several years and was fortunate to secure my field placement assisting with their renovations. I hope to continue contributing to this project, as the museum plays an important role in preserving Canadian history.

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

Supporting people is a passion for Human Resources graduate

Graduate Spotlight: Arial Maisonneuve

Arial Maisonneuve’s educational journey hasn’t followed a straight line.

After taking time off after high school, she enrolled in a spa management program, but her passions pointed her elsewhere. Determining that she wanted to support people, she enrolled in Durham College’s Human Resources – Business diploma program, where she’s excelled for the last two years.

After receiving her credential at Convocation in June, she’ll return to DC this fall via the transfer pathway into the Bachelor of Business Administration – Human Resources Management to further develop her knowledge and add a degree to go with her diploma.

With the next phase of her journey in sight, she spoke to us about discovering her interest in human resources, and the importance of getting involved on and off campus.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I had close friends and some family members who attended DC, and when I finally came for a tour, I really felt that I was going to gain the best college experience.

Why did you want to study human resources?

I think with all my work experience, it really kept pushing me towards a love of business. I was given an opportunity at my last place of employment, and I really liked the recruitment process and selecting people. I also loved training people. It’s my favorite part. So that drove me to HR.

What was your DC experience like?

I love being at DC and I’ve been blessed to receive this education. The effort that professors put into their lessons has been really engaging and sticks with me when I’m studying. I have enjoyed the events that DC has put together, and the spaces, different buildings and study rooms. I joined a club, the Durham College Human Resources Association (DCHRA), that got me out of my comfort zone and helped me understand networking, which is important in my career. I feel confident and ready to go out and further my education and pursue my career.

Tell me about getting involved with the DCHRA.

I didn’t join the first year, and I absolutely regret that now. I wish I joined so much sooner. It doesn’t take up that much of your time. It does require teamwork and organization, because at the end of the day, you are a team. Yes, you have individual responsibilities, but you are able to fall back on people if you really need to. I really enjoy it. They had two positions open, and I joined as the assistant event coordinator. Next year, I’ll be co-president with a friend.

Why did you decide to continue your studies at DC next year and work towards a degree?

In the long run, I want to get to the top of my field. I want that executive or director title. This gives me the opportunity to get not only my diploma, but my degree. I can walk out of DC and achieve my Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation, and then just grow at a company from there.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

Our professors have long standing backgrounds in the profession. Hearing them discuss their real-world experience and using case studies has been an amazing way to learn. The projects and assignments were always relevant and some of my courses were so fun and engaging that I will carry these ideas with me into my future career of HR.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Absolutely. This program is designed to give students skills that employers are going to look for in the future. You get hands-on experience and real-world knowledge to help you feel prepared to go into the workforce.

What is your advice for future students?

Just go for it. Join a club, go to the DCSA events, enjoy getting to know new people, and don’t be so nervous. You’re all going through similar experiences in college, so embrace your time here.

What do you love most about DC?

My professors, honestly. They have amazing insights. They really help you. They really want you to succeed, even when you feel like you’re not doing your best. I was pushed to do better and get out of my comfort zone, so I was just able to enjoy my time in college.

How do you feel about graduating?

I feel prepared to graduate. I have the skills and knowledge to know I will be successful at my future career in Human Resources and have the ability to achieve anything.

What are your future goals?

My goal is to get a corporate job. I would like to hopefully start in training and development, then work my way to a high title, engage with the Human Resources Professionals Association, and then possibly move to Europe for living and travel, all while developing my career to the highest level.

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

Making the most of it: Advice from a two-time DC graduate

With a new school year underway, we spoke to Durham College (DC) alumni about their experience, what they wish they’d known on the first day of classes, and the advice they’d offer to new students.

Alumni Spotlight: Max Morrow

Max Morrow knows what it’s like to be a new student at Durham College (DC).

He’s a two-time DC graduate, completing the Advertising and Promotion and Human Resources – Business Administration programs. This September, he’s beginning a new academic journey at Ontario Tech University in their Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Management program.

With extensive post-secondary experience, and a lengthy tenure with the Durham College Student Association (DCSA), he has plenty of wisdom to pass on to this year’s new crop of students.

What were some highlights of your time at DC?

Some of the best parts of my time at Durham College were the experiences I had outside the classroom. I started the Durham College Human Resource Association, which gave students a chance to grow and connect beyond academics. I also served as the Student Director for the Faculty of Business and Information Technology on the DCSA Board, where I helped represent student voices and provide input on key decisions.

On top of that, I was part of the Program Advisory Committee, the College Advisory Council, and even helped with the approval process for the first HR degree program. I also sat on the Human Resources Student Advisory Council, where we worked with local businesses and community partners.

Being involved in all of this made my time at DC really fulfilling. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, meet new people, and apply what I was learning in real situations.

What advice do you have for new students at DC?

Participate as much as you can. Take the chance of answering that question you might be afraid to answer, or getting into groups with the DCSA and meeting new people. Take one day at a time, keep organized, stay on top of all your deadlines, communicate with your professors. Put yourself out there and feel uncomfortable; it’s really just learning and growing. Coming out of your comfort zone will make the experience a lot easier for you.

You kept very busy at DC. How can students improve their time management?

Time is always going to be a challenge. I made it all work by keeping my mental health a priority and focusing on building strong relationships along the way. By prioritizing that, it really allowed me to be more flexible and open up my schedule and just be more available to things.

You completed a work study program with DC’s Human Resources department. What makes those opportunities so valuable?

It was a great complement to my education. What I was learning in the classroom was being practically used in the actual field, and that was really cool for me to see. I’d recommend work study positions for students, 100 per cent, because you get your feet wet and see what your field is actually like. It’s building that little bit of experience and knowledge of the field that you’re about to enter into very shortly, and you’re building a great network for yourself.

How can students make the most of their time at DC?

Get involved with your community. Join the DCSA clubs. Play sports, if that’s your thing. Just get involved in every aspect while you can, because it’s such a short time and it goes by so quick.

Imagination the only limit for Animation – Digital Production graduate

Graduate Spotlight: Emily Qurrey

Emily Qurrey’s remarkable three-year journey at Durham College (DC) is nearing its end.

The Animation – Digital Production student has been a mainstay on the honour roll, but she has been just as impressive outside of class. She represented DC at the Toronto Animation Arts Festival International, worked as a student assistant at the Media Loans Office, taught local teens in the Summer Shorts program, and participated in the Faculty of Media, Art and Design’s 48-Hour Storytelling Challenge.

Later this month, she’ll join her classmates at Convocation to receive her diploma and kick off her next chapter. But before that, she spoke to us about the importance of asking questions, making mistakes, and taking time out for cookies in the cafeteria.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

Since graduating from high school, I have been passionate about pursuing a career in the arts, specifically in animation. The ability to create captivating stories through animated characters and vibrant worlds has always fascinated me. When I discovered the animation program at DC, I felt it was the perfect fit for my aspirations. The hands-on experience and mentorship from industry professionals were just what I needed to prepare myself for the industry.

What was your DC experience like?

My time at DC has provided me with numerous opportunities for learning and personal growth. Throughout my journey here, I discovered a genuine passion for leadership and the desire to educate others who share similar ambitions and aspirations. Engaging in various projects and collaborating with my peers has deepened my understanding of these concepts. I am especially grateful to my professors, who have been incredibly supportive and encouraging, guiding me every step of the way. Their commitment to my growth as an artist has made a significant impact on my experience at DC and inspired me to pursue my goals with confidence.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

As we approached the end of our third and final year, our professors ensured that each student had the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills in a specific area of the industry. In my case, I wanted to focus primarily on 2D animation. We were given time to revise our work and ensure it was ready to be submitted for potential job opportunities.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Absolutely. For those with aspirations and dreams to make movies, build and create, while also expanding your network and meeting like-minded individuals, this program offers a promising pathway for success tailored to your skills and interests in the industry.

What is your advice for future students?

My advice is to not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Make connections, seize the opportunities that come your way, pursue your goals, and trust your professors. There are no bad questions, and it’s perfectly fine to make mistakes and face setbacks. The industry can be challenging, but if you put in the effort and dedication, you will find success.

What do you love most about DC?

What I love most about DC is not just the delicious cafeteria cookies, but the opportunities for growth and connection. If you feel stuck, there are resources available throughout the campus to help you.

How do you feel about graduating?

Graduation comes up quickly! Sometimes closing one door and jumping headfirst into something new can be scary and intimidating. However, I have formed many connections and lasting friendships that will support me throughout my journey, as I will forever support them.

What are your future goals?

The future may be uncertain, but reflecting on my journey since the first day of classes fills me with gratitude. I have blossomed into the person I’ve always dreamed of becoming, and my artwork and skills have paved the way for me in ways I never imagined possible. Each drawing, frame, and ctrl+z has not only shaped my craft but also sparked a deep passion for teaching. I hope to one day inspire aspiring artists who find themselves in the same position I once was, hoping to guide them through their own creative journeys. The Animation program at DC has not just been an educational experience – it’s been a big stepping stone that has helped me discover my true path and purpose. I look forward to what lies ahead, knowing that I’m moving toward a future filled with possibility and passion!

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

Mark Dixon and Savant Ross found their career path in the Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program at Durham College

Graduate Spotlight: Mark Dixon and Savant Ross

The Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program at Durham College (DC) was a perfect fit for Mark Dixon and Savant Ross.

Though they discovered the program at different times in their lives – Mark changing careers as a mature student and Savant coming directly from high school – they both found everything they were looking for at DC.

As they prepare for Fall Convocation, the soon-to-be graduates spoke to us about their time at DC, everything they’ve learned and what the future has in store for them.

Why did you decide on DC?

Mark Dixon: It was a big decision to go back to school as a mature student. I had been working in a totally unrelated field for over 20 years, but I kept thinking about making a change and was always interested in the world of media and broadcasting. However, it never seemed like the right time, or there was always a reason or excuse to not switch careers. Like many people, I had time to think about my life during the pandemic. During the shutdown, I was working from home at a job that was not enjoyable or fulfilling, and decided it was finally time to try something different. I researched schools, and I liked the Broadcasting program at Durham College the best.

What was your DC experience like?  

Savant Ross: Broadcasting was really fun! I started my program at Durham College in September of 2022 and wasn’t 100% sure what to expect. Coming from high school and doing virtual learning for the most part, I was ready to finally return to an actual classroom environment and get the hands-on experience I’d been waiting for. In my two years at DC, I’ve learned so many valuable things about the field of media and further improved on certain areas that I was already familiar with, like camera/radio equipment and video editing software. I even met some classmates who turned out to be really good friends of mine (you guys know who you are). Even though my time at Durham was short, I was still able to experience a lot of new things.

How did DC help prepare you for your career or the next step on your academic path?

Mark: What I really liked about the program at Durham College was the variety. Many programs at other colleges focus on one specific part of media, like television or radio. At DC, we were introduced to many roles in radio, television, podcasting, newspapers and social media. We had a chance to study writing for various formats, video editing, camera work, audio recording, marketing, and more. The ability to try various positions both behind the scenes and on air was beneficial in figuring out what I enjoyed the most and what kind of jobs I may want in the future. These days it also helps to have a wide variety of skills to offer to a potential employer.

Savant: I entered DC with the hope of preparing myself for a career in sports media. Being able to do weekly newscasts for DC Broadcasting, and putting together live shows specifically aimed at sports recaps and topics is something that will benefit me in the long run. I’ve also learned about professional photography and video capture, which are two things I wasn’t too familiar with and haven’t considered as a career. But after two years of creating on camera news stories, short documentaries, and exploring various methods of photography, I can confidently say that Broadcasting has shown me so many ways that content and professional media is created. During my field placement, I was able to work for a radio station and on a movie set as a PA (Production Assistant). Because of the knowledge I already had from my Broadcasting program at Durham, I was already familiar with some of the things that were going on while filming was taking place.

Would you recommend the Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program?

Mark: If you are interested in broadcasting and media, the program at Durham College provides a great overview of all the possibilities and allows you to try your hand at many different skills.

Savant: I would say go for it! You’ll definitely learn a skill or two that you were not expecting to learn, and have fun. The two years may seem short but you will learn a lot more than you think.

What do you love most about DC?

Mark: I appreciated that our professors had so much experience working in a wide range of media. They have worked for some of the top radio stations, television networks, and newspapers in Canada. I loved hearing their personal stories about working in the industry. It added a valuable perspective to our lessons. It was a fun learning environment as well, which was a huge bonus. I also loved working with some great classmates. We had a chance to work together on some very cool projects, including documentaries, podcasts, tv shows and a live radio show on DC’s Riot Radio. It was intimidating to return to school at an older age, but everyone was welcoming and supportive. It turns out I was able to learn a lot from my younger classmates as well! It’s beneficial to have different life experiences and viewpoints.

Savant: What I enjoyed most about my time at DC is how beginner-friendly everything is. It really doesn’t matter if you’ve never used a camera before or if you are a pro. This program really is the best for anyone looking to get their foot in the door in the world of any type of media. I also love how easily accessible everything is. The MAD media loans office is always a few steps away from most of my classes if I need any camera or audio equipment.

What are your future goals?

Mark: As I am about to graduate, I am open to a wide range of media jobs. I hope to work behind the scenes in radio, television or podcasting and help create content about interesting subjects, with a focus on entertainment or human-interest stories. I also have a personal goal of starting my own podcast for fun and experience.

Savant: I hope to work for a major sports network like ESPN, Sportsnet, TSN, etc., and be able to have my own show where highlights, big news across leagues, and other topics are covered. I believe my time at Durham have opened doors for me in that field.

What would you like to share with current students or new graduates about the broadcast industry?

Savant: There’s a place for everyone in Broadcasting or any type of media, and as long as you love your job it’ll never feel like work to you!

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

From co-op to a trip abroad, DC Tourism – Destination Marketing student soaks up experiential learning experiences

Graduate Spotlight: Amanda Morrison

Launching a career in travel and tourism is a childhood dream come true for Durham College (DC) Tourism – Destination Marketing graduate Amanda Morrison.

As she perused programs before applying to college, Morrison knew it was the right fit for her.

“Since I was a child, I have been fascinated by attractions, travel, history, culture and all the incredible things tourism offers people, but never thought I could turn these fascinations and passions into a career,” she said. “I also chose this program with one thing in mind – can I really see myself being in this industry in five, 10 or 15 years?”

Now that she’s graduating, Morrison says the answer is a resounding yes.

“I can confidently say that I can see myself working in this industry and amongst the like-minded people I have met along the way for years to come.”

Morrison explained that DC was an excellent school to learn under industry veterans and gain the skills needed to succeed in the field.

“All of my professors were either currently in the industry or had previously worked within my industry,” she said. “Not only were they able to teach us the course content professionally, but they also provided us with more personal industry knowledge and experience that we wouldn’t have learned without having them as a professor.”

She spent last summer doing a co-op placement at Oshawa’s Canadian Automotive Museum and served as the visitor services assistant.

“I was able to learn how to give tours here and just the overall operations of museums, which is what I like the most – I like working in the attraction aspect of tourism.”

The co-op placement turned into a part-time job for Morrison who continues to work at the museum on weekends.

She was active with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) student chapter at DC serving as secretary last year and president this year.

That led to a major highlight for her: travelling to San Diego through the Faculty-led Classroom Abroad program. In San Diego, she not only attended the PCMA conference which welcomed more than 3,000 international delegates, she also volunteered at the conference and with the San Diego Tourism Authority, gaining important hands-on experience.

“This was, by far, my favourite experience and I have made lifelong connections and learned new aspects of my industry that I would not have had.”

Looking towards the future, Morrison is hoping to travel through work.

“My biggest future goal is to be a person who can make memories for others through tourism. I would like to be able to work at different attractions and meet new people in the industry who have different ideas from me, as there is much to learn from them.”

Award-winning Police Foundations grad extending her stay at DC

Graduate Spotlight: Maya Austin

Maya Austin has a bright future in policing.

The native of Ajax will cross the stage at Convocation this June as a graduate of Police Foundations. After a summer working full-time as a Student Cadet with York Regional Police, she’ll return to Durham College (DC) this fall to further her education in the Advanced Law Enforcement and Investigations graduate certificate program.

In recognition of her hard work and commitment, she was recently honoured with the Joe Moylan Award of Excellence, given each year to a remarkable Police Foundations graduate from an Ontario college.

With one chapter closing and another soon to begin, Maya sat down with us to discuss her DC experience, serving her community and more.

Have you always wanted to pursue a career in policing?

I always had the idea in the back of my head that that’s what I wanted to do. My dad is a paramedic in Toronto, and he has worked really hard for everything that he has. A lot of his close friends are police officers. Obviously, paramedics and police aren’t the same, but they are in the sense that you get to help people and give back to your community. That was always something that stood out to me.

Why did you decide to study Police Foundations at DC?

I got a call from the rugby coach at Durham College and he asked me to play on his team. I started looking into the different programs at DC and I saw that they had a Police Foundations program. I got a rugby scholarship and ever since I started in that program, I knew that’s where I was meant to be.

Have you enjoyed your DC program?

Honestly, it has exceeded my expectations. It’s been great meeting students with the same goals who are just as driven as I am. It’s been a great environment to be a part of, and I’ve been presented with such great opportunities. Through my placement for my Community Policing class, I’ve been able to volunteer at Back Door Mission in Oshawa, which is a homeless shelter. I’ve been hired on with York Regional Police as a Student Cadet, and I got that opportunity through the program as well.

How has the program prepared you for your career?

Most of my professors have backgrounds in policing, and I think that’s really important because they have the experience to back up the material. They have all those very unique stories that they tell that bring a completely different side to the learning. In terms of preparing me for this Cadet position, I passed the interview with flying colors because of my professors and how well that they prepare each and every single one of their students.

Why did you decide to come back this fall for the Advanced Law Enforcement and Investigations program?

I’ve learned a lot at DC. I have such great memories made through my placement and program, and I wanted another year of having that education, especially the hands-on learning.

What advice do you have for future students in the Police Foundations program?

Give everything your all. Two years ago, I would never have guessed that I’d be where I am today. Every opportunity that my professors provided me with, I just took it and I ran with it. I allowed myself to be a sponge and absorb everything that the teachers were saying. So just completely invest yourself into every aspect of the course.

How do you feel about graduating?

I’m very excited. I’m starting a new chapter, working full-time this summer and also balancing rugby and then school in the fall. It’s going to be challenging, but it’s a challenge that I’m ready for. The last two years have really solidified that this is what I want to do.

What does the Joe Moylan Award of Excellence mean to you?

I was humbled to have been nominated in the first place, so to have actually won the award, I was very happy. Just knowing that all the hard work that I put in over those two years has been recognized is an amazing feeling.

Do you want to serve your community? These programs from DC’s Faculty of Social and Community Services will show you the way.

Cybersecurity student transforms co-op placement into full-time job

Grad spotlight: Melanie Gimoto

For Cybersecurity student Melanie Gimoto, experiential learning opportunities at Durham College (DC) – including a co-op placement – led directly to landing a job in her field upon graduation.

Originally from the Philippines, Gimoto worked as a software developer there before moving to Singapore where she worked as a software engineer and then later as a security assessor.

“That’s where my hunger to understand cybersecurity began,” she said. Gimoto decided to look for a college in Canada, ultimately selecting Durham College’s Cybersecurity (graduate certificate) program.

An honour roll student at DC, Gimoto found the school to be a vibrant and welcoming institution.

“The campus is modern and well-equipped, providing a comfortable and conducive environment for learning,” she said. “The faculty is knowledgeable and approachable, always ready to assist and guide students in their academic journeys.”

She took full advantage of practical opportunities in her program. For example, for a hacking course, she demonstrated the dangers of connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi by simulating a man-in-the-middle attack using a Wi-Fi Pineapple, a device that allows hackers to intercept messages between two parties. She said students at DC get a chance to work on real-world projects through the DC Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation.

“While studying, I was able to acquire a job in the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) as a cybersecurity research assistant,” she explains. “It was a really exciting role as we were developing practical solutions for partner companies, even as a student.”

Her co-op placement at CarltonOne Engagement led to a job as a cyber risk analyst.

“The role involves the sophisticated analysis of phishing emails and threat commands and ensuring that potential vulnerabilities are swiftly identified and addressed,” said Gimoto. “In addition, I conduct in-depth risk assessments providing valuable insights into the security landscape and meticulously analyze threat alerts to safeguard the organization’s digital assets and integrity.”

Her advice to students in the cybersecurity program is to look for a community to support them in their learning and she recommends joining professional groups like the Toronto chapter of ISACA, a global association for IT professionals and WiCyS (Women in Cybersecurity).

“Foster a love for learning and you’ll experience continuous growth,” she said. “That’s essential for achieving success in any field where continual learning is of utmost importance, especially in the cybersecurity landscape.”

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Are you ready to start your career in IT? Check out these popular programs offered at DC in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Information Technology (SEIT):