Jacqueline Woods’ time at Durham College (DC) has taken her on an unpredictable and unexpected journey.

It began in DC’s Photography program. After learning about street photography in class, she decided to do a photo series on individuals experiencing homelessness in Oshawa and Toronto, and wrote stories reflecting their lives and personal experiences.

“What made this work especially meaningful was the support and trust I received from the community,” said Woods. “Their willingness to share their stories and be seen had a profound impact on me and shaped the direction of my work.”

It also shaped her future. After graduation, she felt a calling to turn this new passion into a career that could make a difference, which she chose to pursue by enrolling in the Social Service Worker program. Having crossed the Convocation stage in June as a two-time DC grad, she’s now set her sights on a degree; this fall she’s transferring into the Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program.

With another school year and a new program on the horizon, she spoke to us about her unique post-secondary journey and why DC keeps her coming back.

How would you describe your DC experience so far?

DC has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Through the Photography program, I developed not only technical skills, but also confidence in stepping outside of my comfort zone and connecting with people in meaningful ways. My final portfolio, which focused on individuals experiencing homelessness, taught me the importance of empathy, ethical storytelling, and building trust within a community.

Continuing into the Social Service Worker program allowed me to deepen those skills and apply them in a more direct, supportive role. The program provided me with the knowledge, practical tools, and hands-on placement experiences needed to work effectively with diverse populations. It also strengthened my communication, advocacy, and critical thinking skills.

How has DC supported your personal and professional growth?

One of the most impactful parts of my journey at Durham College has been the support from both faculty and the community. My professors encouraged me to pursue meaningful work, while my placement experiences allowed me to integrate my passion for photography with social service practice.

Overall, Durham College has prepared me for the next step in my career by giving me the confidence, skills, and real-world experience to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Would you recommend your DC programs to others?

If you’re passionate about helping others and making a difference, the Social Service Worker program can truly shape your path in a powerful way.

Go into it with an open mind and a willingness to grow. This program will challenge you. Not just academically, but personally. It asks you to reflect on yourself, your values, and how you show up for others.

Take advantage of every opportunity, especially your placements. Those real-world experiences are where you learn the most and begin to understand the impact you can have. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, because that’s where the most meaningful growth happens. Also, build connections with your peers, your professors, and the community. The support you’ll receive can make a huge difference, and the relationships you build can stay with you long after graduation.

Most importantly, remember why you started. This field isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

What is your advice for future students?

Step outside your comfort zone and take every opportunity to learn. Those experiences will shape your path and confidence.

What do you love most about DC?

What I love most is the sense of community. The students, professors, and overall environment are incredibly supportive and welcoming. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from professors who are not only knowledgeable, but genuinely passionate about what they do and invested in their students’ success.

The connections I’ve built with both peers and faculty have made a huge impact on my experience. There’s a strong sense that everyone wants to see each other succeed, which creates a positive and encouraging learning environment.

What are your future goals?

My future goals are to continue building on the foundation I’ve developed and further my education in the field. Transferring into the Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program this fall will allow me to deepen my knowledge, strengthen my clinical and practical skills, and expand my ability to support individuals in meaningful ways.

I’m especially interested in continuing to combine my background in photography with mental health and social services, using storytelling as a way to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and give a voice to individuals whose experiences are often overlooked.

Overall, my goal is to grow both academically and professionally so I can make a lasting, positive impact in the community.