George Monteiro

Study of Human Behaviour, 2016

Over the past 22 years, George attended Humber four times, gaining knowledge and insight into a handful of programs.

Originally enrolling in the Pre-College program in 1994, George has had the opportunity to witness the architectural and technological changes Humber has made over the years.

“I wanted to come to Humber in 1994 to get an understanding of the atmosphere and environment of post-secondary school. I was fresh out of high school, and felt I needed to experience what college life was like.”

“I absolutely loved Humber’s architecture at the time – it was second to none. The whole school reminded me of a complex maze, so to speak. It was a great experience learning to find my way around the school.”

George’s initial college experience influenced his decision to come back in following years. Having loved the overall environment of the college, he decided to continue his educational journey at Humber by enrolling in the Nursing program in 1996 (which lasted two semesters), then Sociology of the Family in 2014, and more recently Social Psychology leading into his Certificate in the Study of Human Behaviour.

Through the years, George has encountered some very inspirational individuals that he credits to have made an impact in his life. In 1994, he became acquainted with his Advising Seminar instructor, Kit Wilson-Pote, whom he remains in contact with to this day.

“Kit Wilson Pote is a very close friend of mine; not only did she make my time at Humber that much better, but she keeps me motivated to this day. I recently created a video about Asperger’s Syndrome in the workplace – when she watched the video, she was very moved and told me that she always knew I was a unique and amazing young man.”

He also credits past professor, Wayson Choy, who altered his perception of education with a few philosophies that forever changed his views. “There are some people you meet in life that make a lasting impression – Wayson was that person for me.”

As a veteran of post-secondary education, George provides his advice to students who are embarking on similar journeys. “As a student with a disability, I understand that getting accustomed to college life may be difficult, but you have to put yourself out there and learn different ways of studying as well as remind yourself that you are here to receive an education that you’ve always wanted to get.”

“I highly recommend taking an advising seminar if offered; you will be able to learn how to handle your course load, as well as time-management and various methods that can help you through your scholastic educational studies. Attending these seminars ultimately made me a better student and person in the long run.”

“Bond with your fellow students, get into social groups, use online references and textbooks and don’t ever close doors that have been opened for you. If you are someone like me who is  going to school and has a disability, learn what the pros and cons of your disability are, and utilize the pros.”

No matter who or what age you are, focus on your education, and 20 years down the line you will be able to look back and say ‘that was a good time’.”