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Returning to school to pursue her passion: How Zoe Straw is turning her love for video games into a career in Virtual Reality development

Graduate Spotlight – Zoe Straw

For Zoe Straw, video games have always been a part of who she is. From a young age, Zoe was obsessed with learning everything she could about how they were designed and created.

It wasn’t until adulthood though, that she decided to return to school to translate that passion into a career.

Now, as a new Computer Programming and Analysis (CPA) graduate, we caught up with Zoe to hear about her experience at Durham College (DC), her second place win at the 2023 IT Student Expo – an annual event where students present their capstone projects infront of faculty, industry partners, and peers – plus, her future goals in the game development industry.

Why did you decide to take Computer Programming and Analysis at DC?

I was struggling to find my path so in my late 20s, I decided to go back to school. As an autistic woman, I tend to do well with logical problem solving and I have always had strong technical knowledge. I decided that studying software development – which is essentially what the CPA program covers – would be a great way to build a career. I also have always loved the idea of creating video games, and while I didn’t have a sense yet that I wanted to go into game development, I knew that learning to program would allow me to start learning game development skills.

How have the skills you’ve developed at DC helped you?

My classes on Systems Development and Object Oriented Programming helped me a lot in developing my game development skills. It feels very cool as a new programmer to recognize and improve on the shortcomings of code from those who have been doing it much longer than you.

What opportunities are you most grateful for at DC?

By far the best opportunity was working at the Mixed Reality Capture (MRC) Studio on campus. I worked as a research assistant for over a year while I was studying and got to work on multiple commercial game development and virtual reality (VR) projects. My focus as a developer is on VR and the MRC was an amazing opportunity to build my resume and experience outside of what we covered in class. I also got to work under two amazing research leads, Harrison Forsythe and Ryan Miller, who were incredibly passionate mentors.

What did you love most about your experience at DC?

I’m a transgender woman and I began my transition during my first year studying at DC. Coming out was terrifying at first and I had no idea how people would react but was really happy about how great campus life was in regard to my gender identity. It helped me build my confidence over those first vulnerable years of transition and now I am excited to join the work force as the confident woman I’ve become.

Were there any specific DC supports or services that helped you with transitioning your gender identity?

The college made changing my name and pronouns on the class lists and my student email really easy. My first piece of photo ID in my name was actually a Durham College student ID card, even before my government ID changed.

Tell us about your experience at the 2023 IT Student Expo.

The IT Expo was my finest hour and a great way to finish the semester! I was nervous at first, but after the first few visitors to my booth were amazed by my game I started having a lot of fun. I won second place overall, and the first place team was a group of five, so as a solo developer that’s about as good as I think it could’ve gone. My hard work really paid off and I was so proud of myself. I’ve since used my capstone project as a portfolio piece.

Can you tell us about the VR game you created?

I developed VR Missions as a stealth game for the Quest 2, a VR platform. I set it in a dystopian, cyberpunk city and your job is to sneak past the corporate security. I created a dark but colourful stylized virtual setting. I only had 12 weeks to create it, but I managed to create a prototype with three full levels and a very polished stealth system. I’m really proud of it, it’s a great portfolio piece and the most polished and complex game I have managed to make on my own.

What would you say to other women who are thinking of starting their education in tech?

Go for it! I know that tech has a reputation of being a bit of a boy’s club, but the other women in the industry will back you up. There’s a great sense of solidarity that women in tech have with one another. I have a close friend and mentor who is also a VR game developer and loves encouraging other women in tech. Whenever I thank her for her help and support, she says, “you’ll pay it forward once you’re more experienced.” I will definitely do that!

What are your goals for the future?

I want to build a career in the Canadian games industry with a focus on VR. And one day, I would love to found my own studio and work with a team of talented queer people. I really want to make VR games that people enjoy and that also shape our perspectives and experiences within pop culture.

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Are you a critical thinker with a passion for innovation? Check out these popular programs offered at DC in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Information Technology:

It’s never too late to start a new career – Pivoting to PR and Communications at DC

Student spotlight – CLAUDIA NOSSEIR

After a long break from work to raise her family, Claudia Nosseir found herself at a fork in the road. Looking for a different direction from her original career path of psychology, Claudia decided returning to school was the best option.

Originally from Toronto, she explored many schools and was thrilled when her research led her to Durham College’s PR and Strategic Communications Advanced Diploma.

While her children thought it was funny that she was going back to school, she wanted to show them that it is never too late to achieve whatever you want. The three of them now study together!

We caught up with Claudia to learn more about her program, life and next steps.

Why did you decide to go back to school?

I felt it was the right time to complete a program I had been interested in for many years. I was incredibly intimidated entering a college program at this stage of my life, but the staff at DC were my cheerleading squad. Every time I would feel overwhelmed with the many responsibilities I was juggling, there would be someone there helping me back up and encouraging me to continue – always with a ‘yes you can, and you will’ attitude.

Why did you choose Public Relations and Strategic Communications at DC?

I was very particular about the college I chose and felt that Durham College was the right fit for my professional development. In Toronto, there are many communications options, but I was impressed with the curriculum and field placements the program at DC offered.

Within three months of being at school, I applied to the work-study program. I landed a part-time job – which has led to full-time summer employment – on the social media team in the college’s Communications and Marketing department. I was thrilled to be part of their team as this was the perfect complement to my studies. Just by being in the PR and Strategic Communications program, so many doors have already opened, confirming that I made the right decision to choose this program over others I had considered.

How do you balance school with your busy family life?

It’s not easy! I have many things on the go all the time, and I did struggle with time management at first. So, I took a Time Management webinar through the Student Academic Learning Services, and it provided me with strategies that I have used to be more efficient and it worked.

DC is a one-stop shop for your needs. They know what the students need and provide it. As a mature mom, I was very impressed with the college’s services, such as wellness supports and the financial aid office, which made the transition so seamless for me.

Why PR and Strategic Communications?

I chose PR and Strategic Communications because I had taken on various comms roles, such as writing speeches for others, editing, and presenting, during my previous work and volunteer experiences. I started to see a theme in what others came to me for, so I decided to explore this career path more and further develop the skills I already had.

Would you recommend the PR and Strategic Communications program to others?

Absolutely. I made the correct decision in choosing to take this program at DC. I am entering my second year and can’t wait to learn more. The support system in this program is amazing. My knowledge base for communications has increased significantly in just one year, as has my writing. The courses have been interesting and engaging and the material is very relevant and exciting. In addition, they have an impressive contact list for field placement partners, so I feel secure in the knowledge that I will be working as soon as I complete the program.

What advice do you have for other students who return to school later in life?

As I entered my first year, I saw that some students came in with a range of education, work and life experiences. Durham College embraced them all and offered services to accommodate everyone. Wherever you are in your life, DC has got you.

What advice do you have for others considering going into communications and PR?

Come to Durham College! You won’t be disappointed. It’s a fun, engaging and relevant program. There is a demand out there for communications roles, and from what I have seen so far, this program sets you up for success.

“Backbones of recovery” – How one international student is turning his experience into a rewarding nursing career

Student Spotlight: Darshan Patel

Darshan Patel has always been inspired by the medical field, but it wasn’t until he experienced a family member’s illness that he knew it would become his career.

It’s been nearly two years since Darshan arrived in Canada from India for an exciting new opportunity in Durham College’s (DC) Practical Nursing program.

Recently, we met up with Darshan, who is starting his second year in September, to learn about his DC experience and what he hopes to achieve in the future as a nurse in Ontario.

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What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?

As I watched the care and compassion that the nurses provided my loved one, I realized that they were the backbone of his recovery. It amazed me how much of an impact they had on his well-being and how dedicated they were to making him feel comfortable in his time of need. That experience, and my desire to help others, led me to pursue nursing.

Why did you choose the Practical Nursing program at DC?

After deciding that I wanted to enrol in Practical Nursing, I started to research colleges. I was immediately drawn to Durham College’s hands-on opportunities and labs. I had already completed DC’s Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program so the fact that I was already familiar with the campus made it an easy decision.

How has DC supported you along the way?

My experience at DC has been great. I love how the college supports students through a number of helpful services, like DC Hired. As an international student, when I moved to Canada, I was unsure how to find employment. DC Hired helped me create a cover letter and land a job that worked around my schedule.

I also worked as a DC content creator for the college’s social media team. The flexible hours made it easy to work around my studies and I learned how to network and create content for different areas of the college. When I filmed content for Open House, I had the opportunity to interview different faculty members and learn about various programs offered at DC.

What has been your favourite part of your program?

My favourite part of my program so far has been the clinical placements, where I get to put everything I learn in the classroom into practice everything I learn and interact with patients in a real healthcare setting. Working alongside experienced nurses, I can observe their techniques and learn from them while thinking critically and developing my communication skills and professional bedside manner.

What advice would you give to those considering DC or students about to begin your program?

If you are on the fence or considering other colleges, I could not recommend Durham College enough. Along with the DC’s bustling campus, Durham Region is a growing economy with so many opportunities.

It has been an incredible journey so far. Every day, as I witness firsthand the difference my classmates and I can make in someone’s life through our care and expertise, I am reminded of why I chose this profession.

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If you’re interested in a nursing career like Darshan, DC has the program for you. Here are some of our programs that will equip you with the skills you need to make an impact in this highly demanded sector.

Growing a new career at Durham College

Graduate Spotlight – Natalie Cox

As she approached her 50s, Natalie Cox wasn’t sure what professional step to take next. All but one of her children had reached adulthood and left home, and her retail career left her unfulfilled.

While contemplating her future in 2018, she began to explore new career paths.

Interested in plants all her life after growing up in the tropics and having a passion for elaborate tropical gardens, Natalie naturally gravitated toward Durham College’s (DC) Horticulture – Technician program. After graduating with honours in 2021, she decided to continue her education even further by enrolling in the Horticulture – Food and Farming program.

Inspired by her studies, she has started a successful landscaping business, Growing with Natalie, and has teamed up with four of her classmates to create an urban farm, Earth Cellar Farms. She’s also popular on Instagram, where she keeps her thousands of followers up to date on her life as a wife, mother, student and businesswoman.

We caught up with her to talk about returning to school, learning at DC and her next steps.

Why did you decide to go back to school?

I didn’t know what to do with myself. I had been the basketball mom, driving everybody, shuffling 10 different teams and then trying to work retail in the evening or the morning. I felt so unfulfilled and stuck, but I’m still young even though I’m 53. I still felt like I had a lot to give and offer. Sitting at home on the edge of my couch crocheting didn’t seem like how I wanted to start my fifties.

Why did you choose DC?

DC is a leader when it comes to growing innovation. They’re really getting into alternative growing methods, which will be key to the future of farming and agriculture. We must learn how to grow indoors, with hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics. We have to grow vertically. It was all of the alternative things that piqued my interest.

Why did you come back after graduating from your first program?

I really wanted to understand more about growing food. I’m great with tropical plants and flowers and all the ornamentals. I understand soil. I wanted to translate that to food.

What value has your DC education had for your career?

Immense value. Both programs have made me the best horticulturist I could ever imagine myself to be. I’ve learned that you can be passionate about something and earn a living doing it.

Have you ever doubted your decision to go back to school?

My husband can tell you about the nights when I’m crying and shaking and scared, saying, “I’m too old to do this; I’m too weak.” How arrogant of me to think that at 50, I can physically take on landscaping, building a garden or a field. What makes me think I can do this? But I proved to myself I could.

What advice do you have for other students who return to school later in life?

There are a handful of women who have reached out to me on Instagram, who have looked at me and said, “if you can do it, I can do it.” I’m out there as the older woman showing people that aging isn’t necessarily what we think it is. You can do whatever you want to do. There’s no defined box you have to stay in.

How do you balance school with your family life?

My husband coaches for Georgian, so we really don’t get to see each other during the week much. I’ve given him the freedom to pursue his coaching, like he’s given me the freedom to pursue my schooling. We sort of meet on the weekend. It’s about communication; “what’s your schedule tonight?” The balance has to be more intentional; you really have to try and make it work more.

What do you love most about horticulture?

The connectivity. Everything’s connected. The trees are connected to the soil, which is connected to the earth, which is connected to us. Horticulture really shows that. It’s a microcosm of the world, everything synergistically working together. Plants have so much to offer us when we allow it, when we work with them.

What are your future plans and goals?

I started Earth Cellar Farms, an urban farm, with four of my classmates. We plan to hold workshops, community gardens, and teach others to grow. We want to have youth programs. We want to do it all. We want to be the first example of a group of DC students coming together, taking what we’ve learned in the horticulture programs and saying, “this is the epitome of DC success. This is what DC students are doing. This is the change we’re making.”

After four years and two programs, are you ready to leave DC behind?

It’s a scary thought, because DC is home. I’m truly happy when I’m here. I love how I feel on campus. I’d be interested in teaching a class or two if they’d have me. I’d love to still be involved with DC.

Are you passionate about urban agriculture like Natalie? If so, learn more about the RBC Urban Agriculture Work Integrated Learning Program, which will provide $5,000 of funding to 10 DC students – from any faculty – for initiatives that support urban agriculture.

Biomedical engineering technologist makes it her mission to save lives

The below article is written by Lorie Blundon, associate dean, School of Science and Engineering Technology for the January/February 2022 issue of The Ontario Technologist.

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As a young girl growing up in Kenya, Christine Nabwire longed to make a difference in her community. There was always a shortage of medical equipment in good working condition in the hospitals. It was frustrating when her mother would take her and her sister for medical tests because the equipment was often broken. Also, seeing patients who travelled hundreds of miles return home without being treated or with an incorrect diagnosis (due to inadequate equipment) was heartbreaking for Nabwire.

“Can you imagine doctors doing surgeries or treating major illnesses and conditions without a vital signs monitor? I could not sit back and continue watching the unnecessary loss of life,” said Nabwire. Eventually, she was given the opportunity to pursue her dream to support those who need optimal health care when she was accepted to Durham College’s Biomedical Engineering Technology program – leaving her family and friends in Africa.

After graduating from Durham College in 2016, Nabwire worked in the biomedical engineering technology industry for a few years and then returned to the college in 2019, this time as an employee. As the biomedical engineering and healthcare technology management technologist, Nabwire ensures equipment is working, labs are prepped for faculty, and she shares her knowledge and experience with students to help them learn how to save patients’ lives.

At Durham, Nabwire contributes to a multidisciplinary team that supports their community. This was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when Nabwire worked closely with professor Sandra Kudla to deploy Durham College’s ventilators, monitors, masks, gloves and more to nearby hospitals. Kudla recently told students at an Open House event that entering the Biomedical Engineering Technology program “is a three-year commitment for a lifelong partnership to helping people get better.”

When Nabwire was asked if she would recommend Durham’s Biomedical Engineering Technology or Health Care Technology Management program, she said, “I would highly recommend both programs – I graduated and came back, what does that tell you?”

Nabwire goes on to further say, “With technology ever-changing, there is a high demand for biomedical engineering technologists, and this program meets the health care demands which are constantly changing.”

“Students then have the option to bridge to the Health Care Technology Management degree program, the first of its kind in Canada, and with both credentials, graduates can utilize their technical and business skills to optimize healthcare in Canada and around the world.”

Professor Richard Tidman has worked tirelessly to bring the Health Care Technology Management degree program to students, while Kudla will be celebrating 18 years since the beginning of the Biomedical Engineering Technology program that she led. This team shares a common passion, and it centers on biomedical engineering technologists and their goal of saving lives.

Photo credit: Jorge Dorado