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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.

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.

Launching one student’s journey to the cosmos

Graduate Spotlight: Aciff Williams

For one aspiring astrophysicist, attending Durham College (DC) was the launchpad for a lifelong dream.

The General Arts and Science – Science and Engineering Preparation program was the perfect way for Aciff Williams to prepare for further education in the sciences at Ontario Tech University.

As his DC journey winds up at Convocation, he spoke to us about managing the highs and lows of post-secondary education, making the most of what school has to offer, and his dreams of traveling beyond the stars.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I attended an Open House at DC and met Academic Advisor Angie Wood (Faculty of Liberal Studies), who with just a few questions pointed me towards the General Arts and Science – Science and Engineering Preparation (GASZ) program, which aligned perfectly with my desires to study science and space.

What was your DC experience like?

While fast paced, I greatly enjoyed my time at DC. The countless supports and highly knowledgeable faculty allowed me to maintain solid grades throughout my courses. I also felt there was a culture of caring that extended past academia.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

DC allowed me to achieve comfort with regards to due dates, course progression and maintaining a balance in my life to maximize my ability to succeed. I feel well prepared for my next steps at university, where I will build on the strong foundation of knowledge that I was able to establish with the GASZ program.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

I highly recommend GASZ to anyone interested in the sciences. It will allow one to identify their areas of strength and weakness in the many fields covered, and in turn focus their studies to achieve their desired outcomes and progress on a path of their choosing.

What is your advice for future students?

Start strong and maintain your drive. There are bound to be highs and lows during this process, but it will be your resilience and determination that will carry you through. Accept your shortcomings yet strive to better them to a point at which you are satisfied. When experiencing great success, do not falter on your studies. Constantly refreshing and testing one’s knowledge cements it in your mind. 

How do you feel about graduating?

Graduating from this program is a small but extremely meaningful milestone in my education/ career path. I not only gained, but also solidified an abundance of knowledge. I know for certain that I am moving in a direction that brings me closer to chasing the stars.

What are your future goals?

I will next be attending Ontario Tech University, studying astrophysics and further narrowing down where I hope to finally land upon completion of the four-year program. With perseverance and vigor, I intend to advance our ever-growing interests in the cosmos. One day I hope to be standing on some distant planet, thinking of how far we’ve come. Hopefully, with any luck, I will have made a small contribution towards the realization of this dream.

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

Leading with purpose at Durham College and beyond

Graduate Spotlight: Liam Croft

Liam Croft has made an indelible impact on Durham College (DC).

The Mechanical Engineering Technology graduate strengthened student engagement as President of the DC Engineering Club and represented student interests on the DC Board of Governors.

He has guided students on their career development path as a Co-op Ambassador, and on the Program Advisory Committee he has provided feedback to improve the curriculum and align it with industry needs. And he’s done it all while excelling in both coursework and experiential learning.

As he prepares for a well-deserved break, he told us about his post-secondary journey, representing his fellow students on the DC Board of Governors, and why he’ll always be DC Proud.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I actually went to Western University for a while, doing engineering there, which I enjoyed. Then the pandemic happened, which forced me to take a look at what I wanted my career to be and what I wanted my life to be. I happened to have friends from high school that were already in this area, and one of them was going to Ontario Tech University. I’d heard from a professor at Western about how good some of the college level engineering programs were, because he’d done it himself. I wanted to give Durham College’s program a shot, so I applied, and it was the best decision ever.

What was your DC experience like?

I’ve had such a great time. DC has done so much for me in three short years, it’s actually kind of crazy. I hope to be able to give back throughout my career.

Why was it important for you to get involved in student life at DC?

It’s a combination of different things. The biggest reason, probably, is my peers, and also the support I’ve received from the college. I’ve been very fortunate to have so much support on so many of the different initiatives I’ve tried to work on. As I’ve met more and more people, it’s been about trying to support them.

What was it like serving as Student Governor on the DC Board?

It was great. They made me feel welcome, so that helped a lot. It was a little intimidating, but after a short amount of time, I was able to feel more at home and start contributing. The thing that I really tried to work on was providing advice to members of the Board on what’s relevant to students. When you’re working to guide an institution, it’s easy to dive down a rabbit hole, but at the end of the day, it’s important that we’re staying relevant to the people that we serve the most, which is ultimately the students and the community. Sometimes it was a matter of just interjecting a little bit, like ‘these are the things that my peers are most concerned with.’

How did you manage your time so well, and how can other DC students do the same?

It is a lot, I won’t lie. It’s really about priority setting. Generally speaking, you have a pretty good idea of the time commitment beforehand. Ultimately, school comes first. There’s maybe not as much free time as I’d like in my life at the moment, but I’m so passionate about some of the things I’m working on.

How do you feel about graduating?

It’s definitely bittersweet. The last three years have been great. I’ve loved it. It has been a very busy time, so I am looking forward to taking a few months off and relaxing a little bit, because I think I need it. I’m excited to step into the beginning of my career, and go from there. But I don’t think it’s going to be the end of the chapter with DC. I think I’ll always have tight connections here.

What are your future goals?

I’ve been in school for seven years, so I’m planning on working full time for a little while. I’m looking forward to not being in school for a minute. Then I’ll most likely go and get a degree through a bridge program. I’m also half Australian, so I want to go and spend some time over there for a while. Beyond that, I’ll keep trying to work my way up and see where my strengths are, where my weaknesses lie. Getting to some kind of business leader position in the next five years would be awesome. I think I’ve got a lot of learning to do before I get there.

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

Paralegal graduate finds her calling, community at DC

Graduate Spotlight: J. Sarah Armstrong

J. Sarah Armstrong is dedicated to lifelong learning and community empowerment.

Before arriving at Durham College (DC), her many post-secondary accomplishments included an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in biochemistry and a minor in mathematics, a Diploma in Massage Therapy, and Graduate Certificates in Professional Accounting, and Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting.

When she crosses the stage at Convocation, she’ll add a diploma in Paralegal studies to that impressive list.

In advance of that, she spoke to us about discovering her true calling in legal advocacy, and how DC is unlike any other school.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

During the pandemic I made the decision to change my career, as I was in an industry that was greatly affected by the closures, and I had children doing school online at home. After two years of education at another college, I decided to move to DC to complete my legal studies. I was pleasantly surprised that DC, my own community college, was listed in the top five schools that provided paralegal programs in Canada (and friends of mine raved about the community feel of the Oshawa campus).

What was your DC experience like?

Finding a sense of home at DC was a pivotal part of my journey. Balancing single parenting with the demands of law studies tested my time management skills, but the growth and fulfillment I gained made it entirely worthwhile. My friends were not wrong; the campus had a community feeling that facilitated connecting with peers and professors. I found like-minded people in my program and found the faculty to be truly invested in the students’ journey to success. My experience at DC helped me grow both personally and professionally and affirmed that advocacy is a meaningful and impactful pursuit. In reinventing my career by returning to school, I also transformed personally—gaining confidence and discovering a true passion for the law.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

DC connected me with mentors in the field; professors who are currently practicing law and modeled different approaches to working in the legal field. There were opportunities on campus that extended past the classroom, and in connecting with passionate professors, I also was able to engage in off campus activities that broadened my understanding and challenged me to unlearn some long-held biases. I am very grateful that they encouraged and supported me in competing in intramural mooting (litigation) competitions, which allowed me to network with respected people in the field, prior to graduation. Competing for DC was an honour, and I plan to pay that forward by participating in alumni activities in the future. For now, my academic path is finished, and I will move into the legal field with a passion for advocacy, and a focus on addressing inequities that impact access to justice.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Absolutely! Durham College has a very good reputation for producing graduates that are well respected in the legal field and has a rich campus life. Whether students plan to become licensed paralegals or simply use the education to improve their career journey and their advocacy skills, it is a beneficial program to complete.

What is your advice for future students?

For people who are rebuilding their life after separation and divorce, it is never too late to start over. It’s never too late to change directions and explore something new. There are so many rewarding aspects of going to college beyond the academics, and even if you don’t know exactly where to start, start somewhere, come to the campus and explore the options. Don’t be afraid to approach faculty — they are rooting for your success. I also suggest that future students engage in activities outside the classroom, to allow building a sense of community, and organically apply their new skills in real time. The social and intramural activities give an added layer of feeling at home on campus.

What do you love most about DC?

Community! Over my prior post-secondary career, I had taken programs at three other colleges/universities – but DC is the first campus where I felt a deep sense of connected community. That makes a big difference to the academic experience. At DC I felt like I had a seat at the table, that my voice was heard and valued.

How do you feel about graduating?

I feel immensely proud of how far I’ve come. Choosing to reinvent my professional path, as I approached 50, initially felt uncertain and daunting. But now, standing on the other side of graduation, I’m deeply grateful I took the leap. In pursuing something new, I unexpectedly discovered my true calling—law. I think it is important for my children to see that it is never too late to pivot to a new chapter, that learning and studying can be a lifelong adventure that brings you to the next right place.

What are your future goals?

My plan includes sitting for the Law Society of Ontario licensing exams to allow me to practice law in Ontario as a Paralegal. I am keeping an open mind about what area of law I will pursue. My interest in Human Rights law overlaps many jurisdictions of law and legal advocacy. I have not ruled out proceeding to law school in my future – but time will tell, and practicing as a Paralegal may bring me to new goals not yet identified. I am committed to advocating for meaningful reforms—both incremental and wide-reaching—to eliminate barriers to access to justice.

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

Pursuing a culinary calling at Durham College

Graduate Spotlight: Ashley Sedgwick

With a passion for sustainability and a drive to learn, Ashley Sedgwick dove into a fast-paced 16-month journey through the Culinary Management program at Durham College (DC). From exploring the gardens at the Whitby campus to taking part in an unforgettable trip to Peru, she seized every opportunity that came her way.

Now, as she prepares for Convocation, she’s looking back at an experience that shaped both her career and personal growth. She spoke to us about how DC gave her the skills, support, and opportunities to thrive in an industry she loves.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I was working in a kitchen and they decided to close once their lease was done. I was left with all of this free time all of a sudden, and I thought, why not try going to school? I’ve always been very driven, and I realized that a lot of the jobs I would enjoy working in would require a college diploma. DC is kind of my hometown college, so I picked it mostly because of location, but I’m really glad that I went with DC. There was a lot of emphasis on sustainability, which is my big focus in the industry. I’m really glad I got to work with all the field-to-fork principles.

What was your DC experience like?

It was really fun. There was a lot to learn. I really enjoyed going in and doing something completely different every day, and getting to see how I like catering and butchery and baking. There were a lot of different experiential learning opportunities, volunteer events and competitions, and a trip to Peru. I worked two different jobs on campus. There were just so many opportunities everywhere you looked. I did the condensed version of the program, so I had 16 months straight, and I loved every moment of it. Even when it was super stressful, it was always really fun. There were always things to look forward to.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

They gave us a lot of opportunities to see what we like in the industry and what we don’t, which I think is a huge part of preparing someone to go into it. Then you can go forward in an area that you know you enjoy. I think everyone left with a lot of skills that they didn’t have before. Being in school is a lot different from working, but it’s definitely good to have a toolkit for going forward and moving on in your career.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

I absolutely would. All of the faculty were really incredible. Everyone really cared about what you were doing, and wanted to push you. They really encouraged your growth. I felt like I personally knew all of the faculty, and all of the faculty knew most of the students, and there was so much guidance. All of the chefs in the Culinary Management program are very skilled. They all have a lot of experience in different areas, and they’re really great mentors. I had a lot of culinary growth in the program, but also a lot of personal growth just seeing how the chefs dealt with different challenges.

What is your advice for future students?

My advice to incoming culinary students would be to show up on time and be professional, ask questions, go to all the classes. What you put into the program is what you’ll get out of it. If you are not coming to classes and you’re not doing your best, you’re not going to get all the program has to offer you.

What do you love most about DC?

I loved sitting out in the gardens on the Whitby campus; getting to go out to the fields and see everything growing. I liked getting that field-to-fork, farm-to-table experience. I learned a lot about our food system and where things come from. It’s really special to go out to the gardens and pick something and bring it back to the kitchen. I think that’s a really unique experience.

How do you feel about graduating?

Really good. I’m excited. It’s going to be really fantastic to see everyone again. It’s kind of bittersweet, because we were seeing each other every day. I think we will all miss that a little bit, but it’s really exciting to be going forward. I know that everyone’s going to be moving on in their careers, and I’ll get to see people down the road and see what they’re up to.

What are your future goals?

I really loved school, so I definitely think that could be in the cards for me in the future. But right now, I have a job for the summer, and then I’ve got a job lined up after that. I’m doing work on a farm, dealing with food insecurity and waste mitigation, because that’s something I really enjoy doing. After that, I’ll be doing some admin work with a catering company, which will be really cool, because that’s another side of the industry that I haven’t seen. One thing I really loved about school is the variety, so I can’t really see myself settling into a job in the near future. I want to go from place to place and learn as much as I can, and really broaden my experience.

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

Animal Care a stepping stone to dream job at Toronto Zoo

Graduate Spotlight: Griffin Yan

Working at the Toronto Zoo has always been a dream job for Griffin Yan.

Though he spent years at the popular tourist destination in guest operations, his true goal was to work with the animals themselves. With that in mind, he enrolled in the Animal Care program at Durham College (DC). After excelling in the program, and before he even officially graduated, he nabbed a coveted role taking care of the animals at the zoo.

He spoke to us about his love for the zoo, pursuing his dream job and why students should make all the connections they can while in school.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I had been working at the Toronto Zoo previously, in a guest facing role. I ended up leaving, and I started work in another field, but I wasn’t super happy with it. Animal care was always something that I wanted to pursue, and I had heard of quite a few colleagues that had pursued the Durham College program. It was nice and close, and I’d heard great things about it.

What was your DC experience like?

It was a fantastic experience. I thought all of the classes were great and relevant. The instructors were all fantastic, and they really made the experience a lot better. It was only one year, so it was really short, but in that year I became really close with all my instructors and our cohort was really great. I made lots of friends.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

It was nice, because it gave me another perspective. Having worked at the zoo for quite a long time, I had a good idea of how it worked. But the DC program is heavily geared towards the veterinary side of things, which really opened my eyes to a whole other perspective of animal care. That was valuable experience to gain. And my field placement was awesome. I went and worked at Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary, so I got to work with monkeys, which was really cool. The instructors were fantastic, and having that resource was the biggest thing for me. I’m a big advocate for always having lots of connections.

What’s your new job at the Toronto Zoo like?

I’m responsible for basically all of the daily husbandry of the animals in my particular area. I’m assigned to the Outer Savannah, which is essentially one section of the African Savannah section. I’m not signed off with all of them, because some of them are classified as dangerous, but the animals that we work with are giraffes, hippos, baboons, cheetahs, lions, hyenas and hornbills. We do feeding, training, and cleaning and maintenance of the exhibits. It’s been really cool, and I’m super fired up to finally be a part of it.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

100%. It was great. You have a relatively personal experience with your instructors, at least if you seek that out. It’s nice and short, so for those people trying to fly through it, that’s obviously a benefit. I really had a lot of fun with it. The labs were enjoyable and the content was great.

What is your advice for future students?

The biggest piece of advice I would give is to get close with the instructors. They work in the field, so they have all the experience and there’s an endless wealth of knowledge that they have. Take advantage of that and use those connections that you build through the program.

What do you love most about DC?

Our cohort was really great, so I managed to make a ton of friends throughout my time in the program. The relationships and the friendships that I built was probably my favorite part. And the connections with those instructors; I can’t really stress how valuable I find that. It was a really tight community.

How do you feel about graduating?

I’m excited. I’ve bounced around a lot from school and different jobs and things like that, so it feels nice to finally be on the path.

What are your future goals?

My hope is to stick it out at the zoo. I grew up a massive zoo fan. I was always obsessed with the zoo. I always dreamed about working with animals. That was really my goal growing up and I had sort of abandoned that goal, so getting to come back to it has been awesome.

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

The future looks bright for Cloud Computing graduate

Graduate Spotlight: Irene Joseph

Irene Joseph’s time at Durham College (DC) has been marked by academic excellence.

She has excelled in all her courses on the way to earning the “Highest Ranking Graduate” award for the Cloud Computing program, and made the most of DC’s multitude of extra-curricular activities to grow her skills and knowledge.

Before she crosses the stage at Convocation, she tells us what impressed her most about her DC program, shares advice for future students, and more.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

Taking a closer look, I would say that Durham College chose me. To borrow a quote from The Alchemist, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” And that’s exactly what happened. It felt like a series of events—perfectly timed and aligned—led me here. Everything clicked into place from the right program and ideal intake to the perfect location, as if I were being guided toward a path I was always meant to take. It wasn’t just a decision—it felt like destiny.

What was your DC experience like?

Honestly, it was a rollercoaster of victories, plot twists, and occasional identity crises. But I discovered a lot, made some wonderful friends, and consumed an alarming amount of coffee. I felt truly blessed to get amazing support from faculty and classmates, which made the tough days manageable.  Eventually, the journey evolved from academics to growing and learning my potential and implementing strategies, and the occasional panicking before the notorious assignment deadline at 11:59 p.m. Would I do it all over again? Absolutely.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

My program was intensive and well crafted. Over these eight months, I was led through an array of courses and tools by industry professionals that prepared me to stand out in the crowd of career aspirants. It showed me the current market trends and ways to tackle them with hands-on experience. It didn’t just teach me what to do, but why it matters, which gave me a clearer sense of direction moving forward.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

I would recommend my program, but not for the faint-hearted. If you are ready to strap up your boots and are determined to let nothing stand in the way of your learning and growth, then this is the program for you. It’s challenging, fast-paced, and packed with industry-relevant skills rendered by remarkable professionals.

What is your advice for future students?

Choose a program you’re genuinely passionate about. I’ve seen too many students pick something based on salary charts or other perks, only to end up dreading every day for the foreseeable future. Life’s too short to be stuck doing something you don’t enjoy. As Marc Anthony once said, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

What do you love most about DC?

My best memories of DC are the happening PIT (with the lonesome student playing the piano in the corner and the free food), the crazy marketplace, the gym that I vowed to visit three times a week but never got around to, the Tims with the stupefying queues and the library I never visited.

How do you feel about graduating?

It feels glorious. It’s an incredible feeling to know, with absolute certainty, that I crossed this tide. And what makes it even more meaningful is the thought that along this journey, I didn’t just achieve something for myself; there’s a chance I may have inspired someone else along the way, too.

What are your future goals?

My immediate goal is to dip my toes into the real world and spin off my career. I would love to be part of an organization that contributes to our community, and in the long term, I aspire to build innovative, scalable tech solutions that make life easier. And one day, I dream of sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace in the winters of Canada rather than trudging to college to attend my midterms.

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

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.

Indigenous artist shares meaningful art with Durham College

Artistic expression has always been a passion for Emma Whiteye, and her creativity is leaving a mark outside of the classroom.

The Fine Arts – Advanced student and proud member of Walpole Island First Nation arrived at Durham College (DC) last fall. Having worked in a variety of artistic disciplines since childhood, she has spent her first year in the program honing and developing her already impressive skills.

“I like all the arts,” she said. “It’s fun to try something new for each little thing.”

When an assignment tasked her with producing a scroll-style painting, she decided to create a painted representation of the 13 Moons, a teaching from Anishinaabe tradition. Each of the moons represents a new teaching, a change in nature and a cultural tradition.

After working hard for two weeks, she completed a beautiful piece that caught the eye of Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director of Indigenous Initiatives at DC.

It impressed DC leadership as well and now reproductions of the artwork are displayed at both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

“I was shocked. I couldn’t believe it,” she said of learning her piece would be hung on the walls for all to see. “I’m really excited that it’s there.”

With the art now unveiled, Dr. Murphy, also a member of Walpole Island First Nation, is pleased to see a profound interpretation of Indigenous teachings featured so prominently on campus.

“It’s important to see that reflection of self and voice, and to have that representation within the institutions where students can see themselves within academia,” said Dr. Murphy.

While everyone at DC can appreciate the art for its colour and craft, Whiteye is confident that her fellow Indigenous students will find particular meaning in it.

“Even if they know nothing about the 13 Moons, they’ll see it and be like, ‘that’s part of my culture,’” said Whiteye. “It’s just something new that they can learn.”

The artwork is on display in Oshawa’s Gordon Willey Building, South Wing across from the Learning Commons, and in the main entrance of Whitby’s Don Lovisa Building. You can learn more about the 13 Moons online.