Info for
Quick links
Download our Mobile app
Icon for Apple. App Store Icon for Android. Google Play

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.

Student’s career path illuminated by work-integrated learning

In recognition of National Day of Work-Integrated Learning on March 26, we’re sharing this story about one of our accomplished students.

By combining her passion for helping people with her commitment to learning, Developmental Services Worker student Ritika turned a field placement into a life changing experience.

The international student from India embraced her Durham College (DC) program’s opportunities for work-integrated learning, including a 260-hour full-time position in a group home from October to December. There she worked with four clients, including a non-verbal individual. Faced with the unique challenge of supporting someone who couldn’t speak to her, she decided to learn American Sign Language (ASL). She even created a video to help staff and residents learn basic ASL signs, which became an invaluable resource for improving communication in the home.

“It allowed me to connect with him in a meaningful way, and it inspired me to keep on learning, improving and advocating for inclusion and better communication methods for individuals with disabilities,” said Ritika.

She also completed a 98-hour field placement with Community Living Ajax-Pickering & Whitby in early 2024, providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them with arts and crafts, cooking and recreational activities.

In addition to setting her up for career success, her fine work during her field placements has gained her national recognition. She was nominated for the Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada and Emery-Dufault Student of the Year Awards for 2024, and was one of only four recipients of an Honourable Mention.

“This recognition means a lot to me, because it acknowledges all the hard work, dedication and passion I have put into my learning and placements,” she said. “This award is not just about me. It also reflects the support and guidance I received from my professors, my mentors and placement supervisors who helped me grow along the way.”

She is now completing her third placement, this time at St. Hedwig Catholic School in Oshawa. There, she works closely with children who need assistance with their daily activities.

“These learning opportunities have been extremely valuable. I’ve gained real world experience that a classroom alone could never provide,” she said. “I now feel more prepared, motivated and ready to make a difference.”

Her work-integrated learning experiences have reaffirmed her commitment to a career in the developmental services field. After two years at DC, she’s ready to graduate this spring and launch that career.

“I’m excited for the future and the opportunities ahead. DC has given me skills, confidence and memories that I will carry with me forever.”

Following in his parents’ DC footsteps

When Carter Graham began his studies in the General Arts and Science program at Durham College (DC) last fall, he was carrying on a family tradition.

Both his parents are alumni of the program. His father Andrew graduated in 2006 while his mother Michelle followed in 2008. So, when Carter was considering his own post-secondary options, the path was clear.

“We both had success with that program, and he was a little unsure of what he wanted to do,” explained Michelle. “It’s a good starting point.”

Students in General Arts and Science have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects while earning credits that are transferable towards future post-secondary programs. At the same time, they strengthen the essential academic skills that they’ll need to succeed.

For Carter, the program has come as advertised. He’s immersed himself in the college experience while learning about a variety of topics, from the history of the universe to the history of video games.

“It’s been great,” said Carter. “I’ve met a bunch of people in my program that I’ve become friends with. All the teachers are really good, and everyone is very welcoming. I’ve taken some fun classes. It’s widened my knowledge on certain things.”

It has also helped him narrow his focus as he considers his future prospects. Having always had a passion for astronomy, for instance, he took a course on it to see if it merited further study.

His father had a similar experience in the program.

“It gave me a good overview of different things that I never got to study in high school,” said Andrew. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so it was a great way to get my foot in the door in college, try a bunch of things and see what interested me.”

For him, the journey took him to DC’s Advertising program, while Michelle enrolled in Child and Youth Care. Carter will also be extending his time at DC after graduation, having been accepted into the Trade Fundamentals program for this fall.

For each member of the Graham family, the General Arts and Science program proved to be an important steppingstone on their academic and professional journeys.

“It has great value,” said Michelle. “It helped direct me when I was unsure of what I wanted to do.”

It’s now done the same for her son.

“It’s definitely given me an insight on what interests I could study in the future,” he said.

Looking through the microscope with Biotechnology

Student spotlight – Kapri Nolan

After graduating from high school, Oshawa’s Kapri Nolan focused on raising her family. Once her kids were old enough, she started to consider a return to formal education, and remembered the passion she had always held for science.

After considering her options, she enrolled at Durham College (DC) in the Biotechnology – Advanced program. Now in her final semester, she’s excited for what the future holds, including a potential transfer to Ontario Tech University for further study.

In recognition of International Day for Women and Girls in Science on February 11, she spoke to us about her role models in science, her DC experience, career goals and more.

Why did you decide to study Biotechnology?

I started to think about what I really like, and science has always interested me. When COVID-19 was happening, I thought it would be really cool to be the person who made that vaccine. I started looking at programs that were science related, and saw that DC offered this one, and it actually tied into what I liked about vaccine development.

What is it about Biotechnology that fascinates you?

The things that I’m learning feel like something out of a movie. The idea of extracting DNA, like in Jurassic Park, is close to real science, and that amazes me. Biotechnology offers so many opportunities. You have a lot of tools, and you can do a lot with them. It’s always changing and growing.

Has the program met your expectations?

It has exceeded them! My first class was an introduction to biotechnology, and that’s where I learned that it’s more than I expected. My placement in the microbiology lab has grown my love for it as well. As time has gone by, I’ve gotten more excited about it, and I try to share my knowledge with everyone about it.

Have you had any influential role models in science?

My professors at Durham College – Jenny Cortez-Cordova, Bruce and Nadia Trieselmann – are absolutely amazing. They have so much passion and excitement in their classes.

What has been the best part of your time at Durham College?

I’ve loved learning, and the support from my teachers. And it’s been nice to get out of my comfort zone. When I was younger, I wasn’t social at all, but I forced myself into this situation where I have to be, and that’s made me enjoy it more.

Have any experiments or assignments stood out as particularly memorable?

One of my favorites was identifying unknown microbes in microbiology class. We had six to seven weeks of doing testing on them, and then we had to narrow it down out of a select number of species, and I ended up getting them right, so it was really nice.

Has studying biotechnology changed how you see the world?

I feel like everything I do now, I’m always blaming bacteria! When I see sicknesses, I can narrow it down a bit and look at the root cause more. When you grow up everyone is like, ‘you need medicine,’ but I’m seeing that there are natural things to defend yourself with that are actually more effective. It’s changed my thoughts on healthcare.

What do you want to do in science?

I’m hoping to do some kind of cloning – anything to do with DNA. They’re getting to the point where you can clone your own DNA, and they’re printing organs, so that’s something that interests me as well. I want to do something that’s beneficial to science, and the longevity of people’s health.

Why is DC a great place for women to study science?

It’s a really good school for science. I’ve never felt out of place or been treated differently. It’s a welcoming environment, and everyone works together as one big biotech family.

What advice do you have for women and girls who are interested in science?

Even if something seems intimidating or hard, the more you try, the easier it gets. The more time and passion you put into it, the easier it is to love it, and to learn it. It’s overwhelming at first, but once you get into it, it just becomes second nature.

Overcoming illiteracy to excel at Durham College

Vikki Pike has made a habit of overcoming the odds.

The first-year Durham College (DC) student has experienced learning difficulties from a young age. At 16, she was functionally illiterate and was told by her teachers that she would never graduate from high school.

Fast forward six years and she’s not only a high school graduate; she’s a college student.

The remarkable turnaround was fuelled by her unshakeable belief in herself, a tireless work ethic and the support of her family.

“Over the years, I’ve been diagnosed with mild intellectual disability and communication comprehension disability. But those labels don’t define me. They’re just stepping stones on my journey,” said the 22-year-old.

Due to her learning difficulties as a young student, Vikki had often been denied the opportunity to do the same work as her classmates. Her teachers explained they didn’t want to set her up for failure, but that reasoning didn’t satisfy Vikki.

“To me, not trying was the biggest failure of all,” she said. “I was ready to embrace the challenge.”

Working closely with her aunt Joy Prophet, she embarked on a life-changing learning journey. Studying every day and late into the night, she developed essential skills like counting, reading and writing.

She attended the Trillium Demonstration School in Milton and excelled in the Empower Reading Program. Not content to help only herself, she began to advocate for other kids with learning difficulties. She spoke to Ontario’s former Minister of Education Stephen Lecce, successfully lobbying for a second year of access to the Demonstration School program for her fellow students. She also volunteered with the Ontario Human Rights Commission on its Right to Read inquiry report and was influential in getting the English curriculum in Ontario schools updated with science-based teaching and proper testing for all students with learning differences.

Her accomplishments also include being nominated as an International Dyslexia Association Student of the Year.

Once she decided that college was the place for her, she pursued that goal with her trademark tenacity. She started her journey by achieving excellent grades in DC’s Academic Upgrading program. Then, she enrolled in the General Arts and Science program. The demands of a college program have been challenging, but with the help of her professors and DC’s Access and Support Centre, she’s making it work. She even has plans to extend her studies in the future with the Accounting – Business Administration program.

“My professors at DC are understanding and recognize my potential, and they’re providing the support I need to thrive,” she said. “The Access and Support Centre has been instrumental in my success. They offer resources that have made a significant difference.”

Since taking charge of her educational journey, she hasn’t looked back. She continues to challenge herself each day, both in and out of the classroom.

“Learning is a gift I cherish. I approach every class with eagerness to absorb as much knowledge as possible,” she said. “College is demanding, but I appreciate every learning opportunity and I am loving it.”

She also plans to continue advocating for her fellow ‘Slippsters’ – those who have slipped through the cracks of the education system.

“I want to ensure that no one else has to endure what I did,” she said.

“To other students with learning difficulties: You can achieve your dreams with hard work, perseverance, and self-belief. Use the support around you, ask questions, and don’t rush the learning process. Remember, it’s not how quickly you learn, but how much you learn that truly matters.”