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Building a career in the construction industry

Graduate Spotlight: Reagan Francis-Newman

Reagan Francis-Newman is about to become a two-time Durham College (DC) graduate.

After completing the Civil Engineering Technology Advanced Diploma in 2024, she bridged into the Construction Management – Honours Bachelor and will be recognized as one of the program’s very first graduates at this year’s Convocation.

As she launches her career in the construction industry, she told us why taking advantage of your opportunities is so important, and how DC’s focus on student success prepared her to excel in the workforce.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College? 

I chose Durham College because of its strong reputation for hands-on, career-focused programs. I was specifically drawn to the Construction Management program because it combines technical knowledge with practical, real-world application. I wanted an education that would prepare me for a career, not just a classroom, and Durham College offered exactly that.

What was your DC experience like? 

My experience at Durham College has been incredibly rewarding. The supportive environment and smaller class sizes made it easy to build meaningful connections with professors and classmates. What stood out most was how practical the coursework was. Concepts I learned in class, such as scheduling, estimating, project planning, and construction management, were directly applicable during my co-op placements with organizations like Ontario Power Generation, Aecon Nuclear and the Region of Durham. Being able to connect classroom learning to real projects helped strengthen my understanding and confidence as I prepared to enter the industry.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career? 

My program prepared me by giving me both technical and professional skills that I use every day. I gained experience with project scheduling, construction planning, cost control, and project coordination while also developing strong communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork abilities. The program’s emphasis on real-world application made the transition into the workforce much smoother.

I currently work as a Project Coordinator supporting a major wastewater treatment plant refurbishment project. In my role, I assist with project planning, procurement, document control, cost tracking, and coordination between project teams. The skills and experiences I gained at Durham College helped me feel prepared and confident stepping into this role.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students? 

Absolutely. The Construction Management program offers an excellent balance of theory and hands-on learning. It not only provides a strong technical foundation but also helps students develop the professional skills needed to succeed in the workplace. The combination of classroom learning, industry-focused projects, and co-op opportunities makes it a valuable experience for anyone interested in the construction industry.

What is your advice for future students? 

Take advantage of every opportunity available to you, whether that’s participating in co-op placements, networking with industry professionals, joining committees, or simply asking questions in class. Some of my most valuable experiences came from stepping outside my comfort zone and getting involved.

I would also encourage students to stay consistent and organized throughout the program. Construction Management courses often build on concepts learned in previous semesters, so developing good habits early makes a significant difference. Learning how to manage deadlines, coordinate multiple priorities, and stay organized not only helps academically but also prepares you for the realities of working in the construction industry.

What do you love most about DC? 

What I love most about Durham College is its commitment to student success. From knowledgeable professors to the various support services available, there is a genuine focus on helping students achieve their goals. The college creates an environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, professionally, and personally.

How do you feel about graduating? 

Graduating is both exciting and rewarding. Earning my Honours Bachelor of Construction Management represents years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I am incredibly proud of what I have accomplished, and I am excited to begin the next chapter of my career while continuing to learn and grow within the industry.

What are your future goals? 

My goal is to continue building my career within the construction industry, with a particular interest in project coordination, project controls, and project management. I look forward to gaining experience, taking on greater responsibilities, and contributing to meaningful infrastructure projects. Long term, I hope to grow into leadership roles where I can help guide successful projects and mentor future professionals entering the industry.

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

Hands-on learning makes all the difference for Communicative Disorders Assistant graduate

Graduate Spotlight: Adrianna Frucci

Adrianna Frucci is passionate about helping people communicate.

With her sights set on a career as a speech language pathologist, she determined that the Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) graduate certificate program at Durham College (DC) would be an ideal first step. She completed the program last summer and has been working in the field ever since, gaining invaluable experience before she returns to school to get her master’s degree.

She took time out of her busy schedule to tell us about her time at DC and how the experiential learning opportunities offered by the CDA program are already paying off in her career.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

Durham College just seemed like the right fit. As I was looking through the website and looking at the required courses, I just had a gut feeling and I liked it. Usually, I make my choices based off gut feelings, and I had a good one with Durham.

Why did you choose the Communicative Disorders Assistant program?

I want to be a speech language pathologist, but you need your master’s degree and it’s a very competitive field. I came across the title of communicative disorders assistant, and looked into what they do, and I thought it would at least be the next step for me, where I can still go into speech therapy and I can still do the work that I want to do. I’ll be in the field, and I can use it as a stepping stone to eventually get my master’s. And it’s great, because you learn more about how to do therapy and you get the practical sense with the CDA program.

What was your DC experience like?

I really loved the program. The instructors were amazing and passionate, and hearing about their personal experiences and getting insight into how they do therapy was really nice.

I also loved that we could volunteer in the Durham College Kids Speech and Language Clinic and work with kids, with guidance from a speech pathologist. Having that experience helped going into our placements. The hands-on learning was very valuable.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

I think it prepared me well. We created mock lesson plans and did mock therapy on each other. It’s not like working with a client, but you’re in the moment and applying the background knowledge that you have. Getting those moments to practice was really nice, because when you get out into the real world, you have to think on the spot sometimes.

They try to give you as much information as possible before you go into the field. Sometimes I even look back into my notes from school when I’m working with clients, just to remind myself of something.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

I would definitely recommend the program. I’ve actually met a couple of students who started this year, and I was telling them how great it will be.

What is your advice for future students?

Take the experiences that you can. Volunteer in the DC clinic while you have the chance, because it’s a nice prep going into placement, and you feel a little bit more prepared because you’ve done it. Also, ask the instructors any questions you have, because they have so much experience in their respective fields, and they have all this knowledge that they can give you, so any opportunity you have to learn from them, take it. It’s a very quick program and there’s a lot of information to learn, so take in as much as possible.

What do you love most about DC?

I really enjoyed learning from the program coordinator, Lisa Virtue. She has so much insight into her field, so getting to learn from her was amazing. I also liked that we were such a close-knit group. You could easily go up to someone and get advice about things. There was a lot of group work, not just solo work, so we were able to work with one another, and I loved that.

You’re already working in your field. What is your job like?

I am working at two different speech clinics right now, as a communicative disorders assistant. A lot of my clients are autistic, so my work relates to what we learned in our language development class and learning about augmentative and alternative communication. I’m using a lot of what we learned in class. I am doing exactly what our program prepared me for.

How do you feel about graduating?

The program finished in August. If you had asked me back then, I would have felt like it was daunting, because the idea of trying to get a job and finding a job and the whole application process. But now that I have been working, I think it’s exciting.

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

Taking risks, embracing creativity and building a future in Canada

Graduate spotlight: Diana Santos

When Diana Santos left Nigeria to pursue post-secondary education in Canada, they were already a published artist, having illustrated a number of graphic novels. But the uncertainty of freelance work compelled them to seek out a more dependable outlet for their artistic skills, which is how they wound up in the Graphic Design program at Durham College (DC).

Three years later, fresh off a successful field placement at a marketing and creative agency, they spoke to us about their art, making a home in Canada and what comes after Convocation.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

Before I came to Canada, I knew I wanted to study graphic design, so I made a list of colleges that I could attend, and Durham College came out on top. The program webpage was very detailed, and I liked the course outlines and the broadness of what we were going to learn.

What was your DC experience like?

I loved it. The first year was honestly amazing. On the orientation day for first-year students, the Dean came in and said, ‘this is the place to make mistakes. Be bold.’ So I took that, and from the get go I just kind of went crazy with ideas. And I think that’s what connected me with my professors.

What was your experience like as an international student?

Thankfully, I was a little older. I feel like if I came here at 18, I’d be struggling. But I came here at 22 and I was a little bit more equipped to handle being alone. Thankfully, DC had ways to help international students. One big one was that they picked me up from the airport and drove me to the hotel where I stayed, which was helpful.

What was your favorite thing about your program?

I loved the professors. They see me, and they always know I’m just going to say whatever’s on my mind, and I feel like that’s what truly helped me. They supported my crazy ideas. Then, last year, I had a hard time with housing instability, and I didn’t know if I could finish the semester, but they helped me through. The support that they gave me was what helped me finish that semester.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

What I appreciated was the support and advice from my professors. We do consultations where they’re basically art directors, and we show them our work. That really helped me because sometimes they would suggest things that I didn’t even remotely consider. That really helped me to open my mind to more possibilities.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

One hundred percent, yes. With the broadness of what they teach, you really can go into anything. You can literally go anywhere.

What is your advice for future students?

My number one piece of advice is to not hold back. There are no stupid ideas. Just go for it. The worst the professor is going to say is, ‘hey, this is not hitting the brief, but at least you said what you wanted to say.’

A lot of people don’t take advantage of the things that DC offers. Try to get to know your professors, and try to get to know your classmates.

What advice do you have for international students?

Going to another country is definitely a big step, but the experience and the kinds of people that you meet is invaluable. You should do everything. I wish I would have done more, because I stayed inside a lot. Sometimes the residence will host events; just go, especially to the free ones. I met one of my best friends on one of those outings.

What do you love most about DC?

I like how supportive the college is. I appreciate that they are there when you need them. This year, not only was I facing housing insecurity, but I was facing financial instability. I had to choose between tuition or housing, and I chose tuition, so I owed the residence. I was feeling overwhelmed with everything. I went to the international student office and met with one of the student advisors, and they said, ‘we can give you part of your tuition back and put you on a payment plan.’ So I was able to pay the residence, and now I’ve now paid off my entire tuition. They understood my situation.

How do you feel about graduating?

I feel good. It’s scary to think about what comes next, but seeing how everything played out, I know I’ll figure it out.

What are your future goals?

I’m hoping to stay in Canada with the post-graduation work permit. Through my internship, I was able to get a lot of amazing experience. I did work for clients like Nike, Sephora, the city of Guelph, and others. They told me they’re here for any references that I need, which is great.

I’m hoping to get more agency work. I quite liked marketing and advertising, which I didn’t expect that I would, but that’s what the internship helped me learn.

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

General Arts & Science: a solid foundation for graduate’s future learning

Graduate Spotlight: Patrick Steen

Patrick Steen is confident that his experience in General Arts & Science at Durham College (DC) will serve him well as he transfers to Ontario Tech University this fall to study Forensic Psychology.

Although his post-secondary education is just beginning, he’s eager to celebrate his achievement with his fellow graduates at Convocation 2026.

Before that, he spoke to us about going back to school, how mature students can flourish at DC, and what his future holds at Ontario Tech.

Why did you decide to attend DC?

I decided to attend DC for a few reasons. First, the location was convenient and close to home. Second, I really valued the flexibility of the program and the pathways available to continue into university afterward. Finally, this was actually my second attempt at post-secondary education at Durham. My first experience was during the beginning of the pandemic, and I struggled to adapt at the time. Coming back gave me the opportunity to redeem myself and prove what I was capable of. The student advisors here also played a huge role in helping me figure out what program and career path were right for me.

What was your DC experience like?

My experience was excellent. I honestly couldn’t have enjoyed it more. One of the best parts was meeting like-minded people who came from both similar and very different backgrounds, all of whom were brought together through General Arts & Science. It created a really supportive and interesting environment to learn in. The staff were also incredibly welcoming, approachable, and always willing to help.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

My program mainly served as preparation for university, and each course contributed to that in different ways. Many professors used their own university experiences to shape the way they taught, which helped give us a realistic idea of what to expect in future studies. The courses that connected most closely to my career goals also helped me build a strong foundation of knowledge that I can continue developing through more in-depth study at university.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

I would absolutely recommend General Arts & Science to other students. One thing I especially want to emphasize is that it’s never too late to come back to school. Mature students are more than welcome, and DC creates an environment that makes the transition into post-secondary education feel comfortable and manageable. At the same time, the college supports students coming directly from high school, so it really feels like a community where people from different stages of life can succeed together.

What is your advice for future students?

My advice for future students would be to never skip classes and to stay engaged and passionate about your learning. There will be challenging moments, but consistency really makes a difference. It also helps to build a strong group of classmates who can support each other, whether that’s staying on top of work or offering motivation when things get tough. Having that kind of support system can make the experience a lot more manageable and enjoyable.

What do you love most about DC?

One of the things I loved most about my experience at DC was the campus itself and how much I was able to use it outside of just attending classes. It’s a great environment for studying, with plenty of resources available to support students when they need them. There are also always events happening around campus, which makes it easy to take breaks from studying, get involved, and enjoy the student life experience as a whole.

How do you feel about graduating?

It feels a bit strange graduating since I’m still continuing my education and this program essentially represents my first year of a longer academic path. However, I also feel really good about it. It’s an important milestone – I’m proud to be able to celebrate all the effort and progress I’ve made throughout the year.

What are your future goals?

To continue my education at Ontario Tech, building on the foundation I developed here. I want to take the skills and academic habits I learned during my program and apply them to more advanced studies, with the long-term goal of progressing further in my chosen field and career path.

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

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.

DC student seizes opportunity for work-integrated learning

When Maxwell Dinsmore applied for the Computer Programming and Analysis program at Durham College (DC), the opportunity to incorporate work-integrated learning into his education was a big reason why.

“I thought that co-op was a great way to get experience and hopefully a full-time position right out of college,” said Dinsmore.

Students in 34 DC programs can apply for an invaluable co-op opportunity, where they can put their learning to the test in a workplace environment while building their professional network before they even graduate.

“Work-integrated learning opportunities like co-op and field placements are so important, because they allow our students to build practical skills, gain confidence, and become truly prepared for their future careers,” explained Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning.

Entrance to co-op is competitive, so Dinsmore knew that he’d need to keep his grades high in order to qualify. Immersing himself into his studies, he assured that he was near the top of the class when the time to apply came. Sure enough, he earned the opportunity to embark on a four-month, paid work term between the second and third years of the program. Last summer, he did just that at Extendicare Canada.

“It gave me a place to learn and grow while working. I got a lot of opportunities to learn new technologies and to implement solutions I’ve never even heard about before,” he said.

One of his primary tasks was assisting with a cost analysis on how Extendicare can implement new technologies. Though he’d initially hoped to be doing more hands-on programming, he grew to enjoy the varied tasks he was given.

“I wasn’t focusing on making an application, but more on interacting with people and seeing what they want out of certain systems,” he said. “It definitely helped me transition more into business analysis, rather than pure programming and software development. I find the process of planning new applications or maintaining developed applications a bit more interesting.”

His hard work earned rave reviews from Extendicare, and if all goes to plan, he’ll have a full-time opportunity waiting for him there after graduation.

“I felt like they really valued my work there. It was so nice to know that I can do good work in the field,” he said.

That’s just one of the reasons he heartily recommends that students take advantage of work-integrated learning opportunities.

“It really helped solidify my knowledge.”

Megan and Ashley Bent make DC a family affair

Megan Bent’s fifth and final year as a Durham College (DC) student may be her best one yet.

She’s once again serving as Executive Chairwoman of the Durham College Student Association (DCSA), and she’s representing her peers as Student Governor on the DC Board of Governors. In October, she wrapped up a stellar career as a key member of the Durham Lords women’s rugby team. As a Supply Chain Management – Global student, she’s completing her fourth DC program.

Best of all, she’s doing it all alongside her sister Ashley Bent. After building a successful career in New Zealand, Ashley enrolled at DC in the Human Resources Management program this year, to gain the credentials she needs to pursue her calling in Canada.

We spoke to the Bent sisters about how DC runs in the family.

Megan, how would you describe your DC experience?

Megan: It’s been really good. I know that sounds so easy to say, but I don’t think I would have been here for going on five years if my experience wasn’t good. What really sets our college apart is the amount of support that you get. I can honestly say I don’t think I could have survived five years, and all of these roles that I’ve taken on, without the support that I had from my professors, from administrative staff, from support staff. It’s a community that’s available to everyone. If I’m struggling with something, if I need assistance with something, if I need guidance about something, I have that here. That’s what really has made these past four years great for me.

Ashley, what does it mean to you to be joining your sister at DC?

Ashley: It honestly feels really special. For most of our lives, she has been known as ‘Ashley’s little sister,’ but now the roles feel reversed in the best way. I’m stepping into her world. I know she’s more than happy about that. She’s built such a strong legacy here that you can’t help but feel the impact of it. To me, it’s not just about starting my own journey at DC, it’s about walking a path that she’s paved for our family, for me, and for so many students who are here now and who will come after us. Those are big shoes to fill, but it’s an honour to be part of something she’s poured so much of herself into.

Megan, what excites you about having your sister at DC?

Megan: I hope I get to show her all the things I love about Durham College. I’m training her to be a Lord. I’m like, ‘you are not allowed to cheer for any other team. We bleed green and gold in this house’. She’s inherited a lot of my previous varsity swag, and I will be dragging her to all of the games, especially rugby and basketball.

Ashley, what do you think of your sister’s many accomplishments and impact at DC?

Ashley: I’m so proud of my sister and everything she’s accomplished at DC. What she’s done here is so much bigger than her, and that’s not lost on either of us. I know she’s doing it for the little girl inside of her, but also for the ones who are looking for an example. Someone who gives them permission to chase their dreams because they can actually see it’s possible. And what’s even more special is that it’s happening right here on the same campus as them. To me, her legacy isn’t just about the undefeated seasons or leadership roles, it’s about the way she’s inspired others, created opportunities, and made it feel like they belong. As her big sister, it’s been incredible to watch her step into all of this. And now, to be here too, is an honour.

Megan, what message do you have for students as DCSA Executive Chairwoman?

Megan: I would like them to know that we are there for them. We are here to provide clarity, to advocate on your behalf, and make sure that you’re having a good time. We’re a one stop shop for anything, and if you have any questions, you can always come to the office, send an email or DM us on our social channels. We’re here to make sure that you feel extra supported and to answer questions when you don’t know what to do. I’m a very approachable person, so if you come up and say hi to me, I promise I won’t bite.

You both have previous post-secondary experience. What advice do you have for other students?

Megan: Really get involved. You’ll get to meet people with similar interests as you. There are opportunities for you to get student placements or jobs here on campus, and connect with other great programming here. And, as a person who’s a part of Varsity culture, I would say come out to the games. That’s a great way to meet like-minded fans and to cheer your heart out. The college experience is what you make of it. If you keep an open mind and just say yes, at a moment you would have said no, you’ll really surprise yourself.

Ashley: My advice would be to do it all, take it all in, and say yes. I used to roll my eyes when people said that, until I lived it and now, I understand why it matters. People always say, ‘these are some of the best years of your life.’ And while I don’t believe your best years are limited to college (there’s so much more ahead) you’ll never be at this exact age or stage again. There’s something exciting about that. So instead of rushing to the next chapter, enjoy where you are. Study hard, but live harder. Go to events, introduce yourself to people, ask questions in class, join a club or a team – whatever speaks to you. Take advantage of everything at your fingertips: the wisdom and knowledge of your professors, the experiences with your peers, the friendships, the opportunities. Say yes. Say it often. Say it now.

Megan, how will you look back at your DC experience?

Megan: I didn’t think that the journey would be like this. It turned out better than I could have ever imagined. I’ve had so many wonderful opportunities to do really great things, like throwing the first pitch at a Blue Jays game. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be able to do that. I think of myself somewhat as a professional student. I’ve been here for five years, and it took me five years to finish my previous degree. But I can’t imagine doing anything else. Some people are like, ‘don’t you want to get a big girl job?’ And I’ll say, why? If I had a big girl job, I wouldn’t have gotten half of the opportunities I’ve had.