Michelle Bandurchin chose Durham College after researching what the college has to offer. She said the information on the college website was well organized, accessible, reader-oriented and thorough, which allowed her to learn about everything quickly and efficiently. She notes that Durham College embraces diversity, student involvement and culture. She recommends new students relieve stress by studying where their classes are ahead of time and to keep their sights on their goal of becoming a skilled, valuable, fearless and creative professional.
The location of Durham College was key for Jennifer Beckett, who preferred to not uproot her family in her pursuit of post-secondary education. Her advice to new students is to keep trying and never give up. She feels students should not be afraid to ask for help because the faculty is warm and inviting and she encourages them to make an effort to get to know the people around campus.
Danielle Doyle chose Durham College because of its attractive campus and kind people. She enjoys the college’s small size because it creates a sense of community and feels professors really care about their students. Her advice to new students is to go to all their classes and pay attention during each of them.
Jean FisicoWhen Jean Fisico was 57, she nursed a palliative family member. As a young girl, her mother discouraged her from the nursing profession but after experiencing a family tragedy, Fisico decided it was time to realize her dream and is now training for a nursing career at Durham College. She says the faculty has an amazing attitude of dedication and love for the profession and respect for their students. She also feels students should participate in college activities while remembering that their education is their top priority.
Factors such as proximity and reputation brought Kate Fitzpatrick to Durham College. She said everybody on campus is extremely helpful – faculty, staff and students. She believes new students should not be afraid to ask for help when they need it and encourages them to do everything possible to maximize their college experience.
David Luther, general manager of Brant House in Toronto, Ontario is enrolled in the Durham College BIDS program because it is unique from equivalent programs at other colleges. Luther said the college has great, qualified faculty and staff who know what they’re talking about. His advice to new students is to research all available avenues before making a final decision that will ensure they are be happy.
Ashlea MacDonald joined the Durham College population because its success rate for employment after graduation is higher than that of other schools. She believes the ponds around campus are what make the college so unique since they help clean the run-off that eventually travels to the lake. MacDonald assures new students that nothing is worth getting too stressed out over and no matter how dark the tunnel may be students always find their way out.
Lover of law Frank Macedo chose Durham College because of its great School of Justice. He believes the faculty here gives great support to students and goes above and beyond expectations. The Centre for Students with Disabilities is especially helpful and has assisted Macedo with experiencing a great college education. He believes students should make use of all services on campus because they are great avenues for help.
Location was an important factor for Daryl McAdam when she made her decision to attend Durham College. She was also looking for a school proficient in technology, something the college is becoming known for. McAdam is currently completing her co-op with Durham Regional Police Service, a place she feels her program prepared her to work.
Location was the key factor in determining where Tim Moffatt would go to college. Living close to Durham College enables him to live at home with his parents, allowing him to save money on living accommodations and work at General Motors. He advises new students to monitor how many flex dollars they spend – especially at E.P. Taylor’s on-campus pub, make sure they get enough sleep, become actively involved with college activities and contribute ideas that will improve campus life.
Although Clark Morawetz came to Durham College primarily because of its location, he has come to appreciate the campus because of its size. Being smaller than most post-secondary campuses, the college offers a friendly atmosphere and is easy to navigate. Morawetz advises students to choose their programs wisely to ensure they will enjoy them for the next two or three years.
Samantha Page chose Durham College because of the great reputation of the college’s justice programs. High graduate employment rates were another factor that convinced her Durham was the school for her. She tells new students to participate in campus activities, get to know other students and to remember, if they are feeling nervous, everyone else is too!
Returning student Angela Piggott is happy to have remained on campus since the people, the faculty, and the staff are all wonderful. The campus is diverse, has Internet access everywhere and a number of programs to choose from. Piggott believes students should talk to people to make new friends and enjoy their experiences here.
Terry RigbyTerry Rigby came to Durham College because it is located in the heart of the industrial, developmental and innovative area of Ontario. Rigby believes Durham College produces high-quality graduates and feels the calibre of its students is well-known in the community. He said his experience at the college taught him that its tagline – Success matters – is key, adding that the instructors are always available for help and guidance. Rigby believes the answer to succeeding in post-secondary education is commitment and encourages class participation, finishing assignments on time and completing homework for a rewarding college career.
Jana RobinsonJana Robinson loves Durham College because it is its own community with an open, friendly atmosphere. She feels the reputation of the School of Business is fantastic and that the faculty is knowledgeable and helpful. Robinson believes campus tours are valuable as they provide students with a first-hand look about what the school is all about.
Jaime Sparkes says that Durham College’s Sports Business Management program is one of the best in the country and has the highest job success rate. He likes the small classes, which enable him to make friends easily, and the small campus, which makes it easy for him to find his way around. The U-Pass is another plus for Sparkes who travels around Durham Region often. He believes new students should work hard, go to class, have fun, visit the pub on occasion, complete homework and enjoy their time here.
Lindsay Taylor came to Durham College to gain the skills she needs to obtain a rewarding career. She appreciates that the campus is open at night, as it is convenient for students to work late at school when necessary. She advises new students to take a few tours before attending to familiarize themselves with the layout.
Jessica WakeJessica Wake applied to Durham College because of the excellent reputation of the Police Foundations program. She said Durham College has put time and effort into her program and feels her teachers are interested in helping students succeed. Wake currently works as a security officer at the Whitby Mental Health Centre, where she uses the knowledge she gained from school. Wake said investing her time and money into a Durham College education is the best investment she has made. She tells students to ask questions and keep up with their work.
For Tricia Zoet, location was a primary factor in attending Durham College since it is close to home. She loves that professors are always willing to help if needed and feels the Learner Support Centre is a great avenue for assistance as well. The college also has excellent tutoring services. Zoet thinks new students should get involved in campus activities and assures them that the people here are friendly.