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Back in 2012 when I was graduating high school, I had spent all of my time focusing on hospitality (doing a Specialist High Skills Major) I still believed that University was the way to go. It was always what I had known and believed, so I did just that. I tried my hardest to find a university program that I thought would fit what I wanted for myself – Food Sciences. I did one year of university but I was just so unhappy with everything, the school, the program, absolutely everything!
At this point I was stuck, didn’t know what I wanted to do and I felt defeated. I was always a person to have a plan for myself and this felt like failure for me. I spoke to my mentor and naturally she suggested that I follow my heart and do hospitality as I always wanted too.
I started with culinary first, I took tours of multiple schools, read over the curriculums and Humber was the perfect mix of in class and kitchen, which was exactly what I was looking for. That is how I ended up at Humber but my story was far from over.
Humber was everything I expected and more! Amazing lab spaces, brilliant professors and opportunities that were presented to me, that I never knew could be an option. After completing the Culinary Management program here, I thought it was best to continue my studies in Hospitality and expand my knowledge to not only kitchens but also hotels, travel and resorts. So I did just that, I continued my education at Humber and went into the Hospitality Management program (now known as Hospitality - Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management).
Through that program I had learnt so much information regarding the Hospitality and Tourism industry and it all just showed me one thing, this is what I was destined to do! I was even excited when I got offered a full time job at a well-known airport hotel! I didn’t stop there though, I chose to carry on my studies and moved straight into the degree I’m currently in now, Bachelor of Commerce – Hospitality and Tourism Management. Although I had gotten a great job offer, my mom always taught me to strive for the highest level of education and that is exactly what I was going to do. I had the option to leave and go to a university, but Humber had gotten me this far and I knew this program wouldn’t disappoint.
I am currently heading into my final year of my program and I know I made the right decision. Thanks to Humber, when I graduate I will be set for life. The knowledge I have gained has really put me on the path to succeed and I owe it all to the staff here. As I prepare to graduate I also work as a Student Ambassador. My main goal is to show new students that Humber is an amazing school, with blooming opportunities and I hope that one day the school can do for them what it did for me.
If you had told me 7 years ago that Humber College is where I would be doing my post-secondary education, I wouldn’t have believed you. Just remember there is no straight path to get where you should be, as things always have a way of working themselves out for the best. For me that was all through Humber College.
Choosing where to spend the next few years of my life was one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make. It’s hard choosing what you’re going to do for the rest of your life at 17. I originally sought out business programs but I’d always had a love for sport. When I spoke to the Humber Sport Management program coordinator at the Ontario College Information Fair (OCIF), I learned that it was a perfect blend of both business and sport. I immediately knew that it was the one for me. After solidifying my program, I visited many schools when trying to make my decision, but I knew my search was over when I found Humber. I was immediately welcomed with smiles and enthusiasm at Humber’s Open House. Everything was so colourful and happy; it was a community I wanted to be a part of.
Humber is much more than just a school. In first year, it was my first home away from home where I developed lifelong friendships in residence and gained my independence. It’s where I was offered a job as a student ambassador and welcomed into a group of fantastic individuals who I will never forget.
Now, in my final year I am proud of my many accomplishments, including completing my first industry internship with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) focusing on the Raptors 905 team.
My program offers many cool opportunities such as working with the North American Indigenous Games organization. We prepare presentations for organizations such as the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS), Adidas, and Coaches Association of Ontario. The projects are consistent with industry standards so I know I am well prepared after graduation.
Everyday my decision in choosing Humber’s Sport Management program is reaffirmed. I don’t know what else I would be doing other than sport and I’m very much looking forward to taking my skills and experiences and applying them after graduation. There are so many areas of sport that I was exposed to that I didn’t even know existed, so I’m now even more excited to explore different sectors throughout my career!
I decided to study nursing at Humber College due to the warm and supportive atmosphere, small class sizes, and amazing facilities. This school really does make you feel like you can achieve anything you set your mind to and the professors are there with you along the way, ensuring you succeed.
Right out of high school I knew that I wanted to pursue a university education. However, I was unsure of my career path and enrolled myself in a program that I was not passionate about. After taking multiple personality tests, I took a leap of faith and applied to Humber’s Bachelor of Public Relations program. It’s the best decision I have made to date!
Before applying I booked a tour to get a feel for the campus. The tour went amazing and I was pleasantly surprised by the scenic location, which still amazes me to this day. I met with my program coordinator who gave me a run-down of the program and the pathways within it; knowing I had the option to get a degree in PR helped me make my final decision.
At Humber I felt more comfortable in the first week than I had in years at the institution I was attending prior. At Humber, all my individual academic needs are met with the small classroom sizes and approachable professors.
I decided to a Student Ambassador to show everyone Humber from my point of view. I’m confident that when I graduate, I will be equipped with an indispensable skill set and be fully ready to pursue my PR goals!
Throughout my life, I was always the person with a plan. Whether it was classes to take, weekend activities, or work to be done, I made sure everything was set in stone. But there was one thing I had not planned: my career. As postsecondary came closer and friends submitted applications, I realized I had no plan.
I knew I enjoyed business and helping people, so I decided on a career that could incorporate both: human resources (HR). What inspired me most about the profession was the ability to aid employees in the workplace. Growing up without workplace benefits or assistance, I saw the strain this put on my parents as treatment costs became challenging and finances were difficult. This experience inspired me to work in a field that could give employees proper coverage.
While I had chosen my industry, this was only half the battle; I still needed to find a program. I thought I would be in for the long haul, but luckily I found Humber’s Bachelor of Commerce, Human Resources Management program almost immediately. It drew me in quickly. A two-year general business platform followed by two years of specialized HR courses and a 14-week work placement made the choice an easy one.
This was a big move for me. Although the program was great and the industry ideal, coming to Toronto was an enormous decision to make. I’ve lived in the same small town my entire life, and leaving my comfort zone would be a difficult decision. I wanted a change of pace and embraced this decision wholeheartedly. I know I made the right decision coming to Humber because of the amazing experiences and opportunities I would not have had at home. I can’t believe all of this came from not having a plan!
My journey to Humber College begun a year after I had first moved to Canada. I had just settled into high school life and had to begin the process all over again. I was a bit nervous to start, but once I did some research, I was really intrigued with Humber College. You get applied learning opportunities, while engaging with professors and getting personalized attention in the classroom. I had the opportunity to visit the Lakeshore Campus and it was stunning, plus everyone I met was so welcoming.
I have always had a passion for law, so I applied to the Paralegal Studies degree program and enjoyed every minute of my experience! The majority of my professors were all working in the industry and brought so much of that experience into the classroom. I was able to do a placement during my degree, where I was able to work with a lawyer who introduced me to the world of community justice, which I found really captivating and wondered if it was something I could pursue.
I reached out to my professors and student advisors who encouraged and inspired me to further my studies and let me know that Humber had the perfect program for my career needs. I am now pursing the Community and Justice Services program and I love it! This makes me very excited for my future career in the helping profession.
I am glad I made the decision to attend Humber College. I have been introduced to new experiences during my time here and so many doors have opened for me due to the networks and connections I have from Humber. I am very excited for what lies ahead!
Choosing Humber was a no brainer for me. When I went to the Ontario College Information Fair (OCIF), I was immediately drawn to Humber’s booth. It didn’t take long for me to see that Humber’s faculty, students and reputation were exactly what I was looking for. The conversations I had with professors and current Humber students at OCIF floored me – the idea of going to a college with unmatched internships, highly competitive programs and elite graduates ignited a fire in me.
Students in my program have a competitive edge in the industry. What puts this program above others is that you hit the ground running. I jumped right into developing the skills I would be using in the field as soon as I started my first semester. In almost every lesson my professors related the curriculum back to their work experiences, which helped connect the material from each lesson to the workplace. I’ve never had a lesson that doesn’t directly relate to what I will be doing in my career and I love that!
My professors introduced me to all sectors of public relations and helped me start thinking about the path you want to take. The industry is so versatile I can work anywhere in the world! I’d like to explore working for a non-profit organization because I love volunteering. I feel so much satisfaction doing something that leaves a mark in the world. My internship in third year will help achieve this goal and give my resume a competitive advantage when I graduate.
In PR, the world is your oyster. There are so many areas you can specialize in and you can pretty much work for whomever and wherever you want. One of the most surprising and exciting things I’ve learned from my program is the importance of networking and personal branding. For me, this is more than a future job – it is my passion. I live and breathe PR every day. That fire that was lit at OCIF keeps burning and I owe so much of that to my amazing professors and peers at Humber!
After graduating high school, I was confused about what I wanted to do, but it involved helping people. I didn’t apply to any colleges because I assumed that university was the path to go. While attending my university, I learned what I enjoyed learning and what I didn’t. Although I liked university, it wasn’t the right fit for me. I wanted something more hands-on, while still gaining my theoretical education. So, I decided to transfer to a college, where I could learn practically and still learn the theory.
I investigated Humber and found out that they offered a nursing program, in which I would learn both the theory and clinical aspects of the field. I applied to Humber’s Practical Nursing program. Humber offers such a wide range of learning, through labs and small class sizes, all the way to working out in the field (hospitals and clinical settings). Humber not only became a new post-secondary to me, but it also became a home. I feel comfortable learning at Humber, knowing I have industry-experienced professors and clinical instructors, always there to help me. Humber is an environment where you can communicate with professors and other students to ensure you’re networking and developing professional relationships. Humber’s main focus is on student success, so I knew when applying that I would not only feel like I was being taken care of, but I also knew it was a place in which I can create a foundation for my education. I look forward to completing my education and growing within the Humber College community.
I was always focused on going to university. Despite not knowing what I wanted to do, my parents believed that the only option for success was a university degree. I was interested in business but also intrigued by law and trades. I didn’t know which route to take and was intimidated by large class sizes and theory-based learning, which most universities offered. I knew I had to make a decision that would determine the course of my life and was not prepared to make it. I ended up taking a victory lap in high school to ensure I was making an educated decision.
During my victory lap, I reached out to my high school’s guidance counsellor, hoping she would have all the answers. I enquired about the path I should take as I was interested in a variety of fields including psychology, business and criminology. She recognized that I am a hands-on learner and excelled in a community-focused environment. She recommended Humber College!
I researched the programs Humber offered and applied to the Business Management diploma program. It introduced me to the primary functions of business and established a strong foundation I could transfer later into a degree. I quickly learned I was horrible at accounting but enjoyed marketing. As a result, I was invited to compete in the Ontario Colleges’ Marketing Competition.
This was a chance for me to test my knowledge and compete against other students from colleges across Ontario. I competed in the sales category of prospect pitching, and over a weekend of competing, I placed third in the province, all the while falling in love with the marketing industry.
To carry on my experience at Humber and my interest in marketing I made the decision to transfer into the Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing program. I am currently enrolled in my third year of the program and looking forward to my upcoming 14-week internship. After graduation, I aspire to work business-to-business (B2B) sales. Working in B2B sales will give me the opportunity to express my marketing knowledge while traveling to new and exciting places and establishing strong connections in the industry. I am excited to work in B2B sales as a career because of the ambitious and fluctuating work environment!
Humber College has made a profound impression on my life and I couldn’t be happier! Through the ups and downs of my college experience, Humber has been with me every step of the way. The faculty and staff pushed me to be more and excel. It’s more than just an education, it’s a community I am happy and grateful to have been a part of.
When I was younger, my idea of a dream job was constantly changing. It went from being a pop star, to a detective, to a fashion designer, to just about everything else under the sun. So, when it was time to decide what I wanted to take in post-secondary, I had no idea what path to choose. One thing that was always a constant with me was my love of summer camp and the fond memories I had been there both as a camper and a staff member. This is what prompted me to research programs related to working with children, which is what initially led me to the field of child and youth care.
After researching the program further, it seemed like it would be a perfect fit for me and lined up perfectly with many of my core values and inspirations. It was the first time in a long time I had felt excited about my education and I was incredibly excited to begin working towards graduating as a CYC practitioner.
I was very apprehensive about post-secondary education at first, as I had never spent much time outside of my hometown. One of the major influences when choosing a school for me was how large it was. I was worried that if my school was too large, I wouldn’t be able to get to know my faculty/classmates properly and that I may be just another number in the classroom. This initial fear led me to choose another institution, which at the time I felt was right for me.
After spending some time in the classroom and in placement settings, I realized very quickly that I was most interested in clinical practice and I made it a goal of mine to obtain a placement in a hospital setting. I knew this type of setting was considered a more competitive placement to get, so I was determined to work hard and reach this goal. Unfortunately, this placement setting was not an option at my former institution, so I began to explore other post-secondary options so that I could make my goal a reality.
This is when I found Humber. I was able to attend the open-house and ended up falling in love with the Lakeshore campus. The students and faculty members were all so welcoming, which made my decision to switch to Humber that much easier. Although I was discouraged before, I began to have renewed excitement for my education and the opportunities included with this change. The things that used to frighten me about living in a big city now seemed minimal in comparison to all the benefits this change would bring me. In terms of my last placement, Humber was able to assist me in getting my dream placement and provide me with exceptional support during the application and interview process.
I couldn’t have been any happier with the outcome of my decision to switch schools. I am now a proud graduate of the CYC Advanced Diploma program and a current student of the CYC degree program at Humber. I was able to make use of one of Humber’s many pathway programs and enroll right into the third year of the degree program, which makes getting both of my credentials much quicker and helps me to get into my field as quickly as possible.
Humber College is a place that makes you feel able to achieve your goals and supports you every step of the way. I am incredibly grateful for the experiences and education I have received during my time at Humber so far and plan to continue making the most of my time spent as a student!
Throughout my time in high school, I didn’t have a game plan. I had a fixation on all things media, so film, television, radio, graphic design (etc). At the time, I didn’t know exactly where I felt enough passion to enjoy a certain part of the media industry since it’s so large. Deciding to go to Humber for Media Foundation allowed me to go to school for one year, learn about the various areas of media and by the end figure out an area I’d like to pursue further.
I was able to confirm film production was my forte and something I was passionate about, so I applied to Humber’s Film and Television Production program. I knew the program had such exceptional hands-on experience through its classes and labs and it allows students to create short films in various roles. The hands-on experience is something I find important when reviewing other programs at other schools and based on what Humber can offer it demonstrates that I can get what I need to graduate and thrive in the film industry. Having faculty that have spent many years in the industry as well as instructors who work in the industry and teach part-time gives us someone who knows the ins and outs as well as the constant changes and evolutions of the film industry as it continues to grow. I found that a rewarding trait as a potential student.
During my time at Humber, I was also lucky enough to work as a Student Ambassador. This position piqued my interest when I came to Humber for a campus tour. I enjoyed the way the tour was given, the number of questions that were answered, and how approachable the student ambassador was for me. I wanted to do the same for future Humber students or students interested in seeing Humber. Being able to assist them in showing them why Humber is a good option always reminds me of why I chose Humber.
Fast forward a little bit and I’m about to graduate from Humber. Looking back, I have zero regrets about choosing Humber. My time at Humber is highlighted by the projects I created, getting my chances to produce projects, meeting amazing people that may become colleagues in the industry, and finally having a game plan for my future. My journey to Humber wasn’t a clear path at the beginning, but along the way, I truly was able to change my belief in having a plan and now, I’m ready for whatever comes next.
The classroom setting was the deal breaker; after attending university for a year, I decided the learning environment wasn’t ideal for me. I started to explore other options in pursuit of a postsecondary education. Humber College was the clear-cut choice and I decided to apply for the Bachelor of International Development.
The learning environment at Humber is unparalleled and second to none. I am able to learn the theoretical knowledge paired with practical application in the classroom through case studies and discussions. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities outside of the classroom for professional development such as workshops, conferences, forums and training sessions. Humber selected me and a small group of students to attend the Sustainable Development Goals training session hosted by The United Nations through Humber’s International Development Institute and International Forum.
The training session provided attendees with the tools for the advocacy and local implementation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
My professors are professionals that share not only their insight, but also act as connections to the industry. As a result, I was able to attend the Active Citizens Social Enterprise Program, which was launched by the United Nations Association in Canada and British Council Canada. This is just one of the many professional development opportunities I have been able to pursue thanks to Humber! Getting this exposure well before my work placement has been truly advantageous and is definitely giving me a competitive edge. I feel confident in my knowledge and skills, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for me!
During my early years in high school I was set on attending university. Based on the stigma I had sketched in my mind, there was no way I was going to college - it was absolutely out of the picture. But as application deadlines loomed, I found myself questioning whether university was the right fit for my personality and learning style.
This was huge. I was now challenging everything I thought I knew about where I was going after high school. I started scouring through every single college’s course calendar. I spent days researching the most renowned colleges in Canada, and quickly narrowed down my search. At last, I had found my match! Humber soared to the top of my list when I discovered I could get a bachelor’s degree in commerce that's equivalent to obtaining a degree at a university. I took a campus tour at Humber, and after my visit, I told my mom we didn’t need to see any of the other colleges. I was going to Humber.
There’s no better feeling than knowing you’ve made the right decision. Within my first week at Humber I knew I had done just that. The class sizes were small, I could see the professors taking the time to learn everyone’s name and the practical and theoretical learning style was exactly what I was hoping for – I belonged here.
As I head into my fourth year, I am so thankful for Humber! I feel extremely prepared for the real world. My professors and program coordinator are constantly organizing networking events, which allow us to talk to peers and professionals in our industry, LinkedIn groups to connect with potential employers, and a student association where we organize events assisting in strengthening our portfolios. My classmates have also become my support system. We have built a family within the classroom as well as lifelong friendships.
I began working as a Student Ambassador at Humber in my first year and can very easily say I have the absolute best job on campus! Working for Humber has given me so many opportunities, but the best one is the chance to share with future students what my tour guide shared with me. I want everyone who visits to know and feel that we will do everything we possibly can to ensure our students succeed.
What’s next to come for me is unknown, but I do know I owe my future to Humber and the amazing faculty and staff who have supported me through everything!
I was fresh out of high school and had no clue what I wanted to do! The thought was – head to post-secondary and take general studies. For me, I wanted to pursue my interests while I work out the why I want to go to school. My interest was backpacking, so I trekked off to Europe for a ‘gap year’ which ended up being three years long. Travel became an education in itself and it gave me the opportunity to learn about both myself and other parts of the world.
Traveling taught me how to engage different personalities and nationalities, how to be more independent, and how to survive in new situations. Exploring Europe definitely forced me to take self-responsibility and gave me direction in what career suits my personality with these new developed skills I acquired in three years. After solidifying my industry in Events, I knew my search was back in Canada where I found Humber.
When I am asked "why did you choose your college”? The answer is networking, because it is a small world after all. I picked Humber College because I wanted smaller class sizes and the chance to establish close relationships with other students and my professors. I thrive in a collaborative environment, and during the time I’ve spent here, I’ve been lucky enough to have the opportunity to engage. Not only other like-minded students but with my professors who are still in the industry bringing up to date knowledge to the classroom.
Humber strives to meet and exceed the needs of all students. The networking in my program is building lasting, mutually beneficial, and professional relationships. These relationships will help you get connected, discover opportunities and move forward. When I graduate in 2020, I feel confident that obtaining employment in the event industry will be assured. Humber is the best choice for me!
I came to Humber to pursue my passion. At an early age, I wanted to work in the world of comedy, but the hardest part about working in such a competition industry is getting your start. Humber was ultimately the best place for me to go.
My instructors all worked in the industry and continue to have strong ties in film, television, theater, improvisation and stand-up comedy. Their experience in the industry and their wealth of knowledge on the craft has been super helpful for me as a student, as I have had the privilege to learn from individuals who constantly challenge me as a writer and a performer.
My classmates at Humber quickly became some of my closest friends in the city. I am originally from Beamsville, Ontario, so moving to Toronto was quite the change in scenery. This move was made a lot easier after I got the chance to get to know everyone, as you quickly start to make meaningful connections with the other students and enjoy their success. My classmates have made my experience at Humber better than I would have ever imagined and we will continue to support each other outside of the classroom once we graduate.
Growing up, I always had a passion for writing but never knew how I could exactly implement it into my career path. I always wanted the ability to tell important stories that need to be heard but never knew how I could put this plan into action.
I soon realized after intensive research that becoming a journalist would be my dream job but then struggled with the decision of how exactly to achieve my dream. One of the biggest problems that I faced was the fact that I always thought that I would attend university. With this in mind, I didn’t want to rule out any other options that were available to me. At this point, I wasn’t even aware that Humber offered degree programs. When I found this out, I decided to check Humber out.
I attended a campus tour and got the opportunity to meet some of the faculty from the Journalism program. On top of this, I was shown hands on learning spaces that I would be working in. I was also informed that many of my teachers would also be working in the industry, allowing them to give insight on current infrastructure in the field of journalism.
This then made my journey to Humber a very easy decision. I was scared to move from my small town to the big city, but Humber Residence welcomed me with open arms. It allowed me to meet new friends and comfortably live in an inviting and accessible environment.
Humber has given me a platform for my voice to be heard. I have received so many amazing opportunities that I never thought I would get the chance to experience. Humber is allowing me the chance to turn my dream of becoming a journalist, into a reality.
My journey to Humber started seven years ago. Although my path here wasn’t always straight and narrow, I like to think that Humber was meant to be my end destination.
During my last year of high school I accepted a full hockey scholarship to a D-1 university in the United States. At the time, my life revolved around hockey and I was so happy to have achieved my goal of playing at the NCAA Division 1 level. Although I enjoyed my time in America, I struggled with my academics and mental health. I decided not to return after my second year so I could take the time off and focus on myself.
After taking a break from school, I applied to a political science degree at an Ontario university. I accepted my offer and began a new chapter of my life while continuing to play hockey at the varsity level. However, I couldn’t help but feel like something was missing. I spent two years in the program before realizing that university simply wasn’t for me. After this realization I started immediately looking into other options. That’s when I came across the Bachelor of Applied Arts, Paralegal Studies program at Humber College.
The paralegal degree program at Humber is the only one of its kind in Canada. This instantly grabbed my attention, as I knew that in a competitive industry I would be one of few who held an accredited degree in paralegal studies.
After researching the program I went to Humber’s Open House, fell in love with the Lakeshore Campus and went home to accept my offer. I haven’t looked back since!
I’m now in my second year of the program and I’ve never been happier! As someone who has struggled academically throughout my entire postsecondary career, nothing made me happier than walking across the stage to receive my Academic Award of Excellence at the Humber Academic Awards Banquet last year. My time here has opened up my life to many new and exciting opportunities! I’ve tried out for the mooting team (competition against other law schools in mock trials), became a Student Ambassador and I’m even in the process of having one of my papers published called “Crown Treatment of Indigenous People in Canada”.
Looking back, I know that I made the right decision to come to Humber. One thing that I want all future Humber students to remember is that sometimes the path you take to greatness is unsteady, but in the end it’s always worth it when you find the perfect destination!
Choosing a program was never a problem for me, but I had no idea where to start when selecting a college. I took some time off to save for school and research colleges and universities that offered interior design. Humber stood out the most for me, so I visited the campus right away. I came to Humber’s Open House and was so impressed with the services available to me, then I got to see the design building and I was hooked! What amazed me the most was how friendly and helpful the faculty, staff and students were. All the positive energy made me feel so welcomed; I knew right away that this was the school I wanted to go to.
I am now going into my fourth year of the Bachelor of Interior Design and I’ve loved every bit of it! The learning spaces in the Design Centre provide a collaborative atmosphere where we can have discussions with faculty, group meetings with other students, and presentation areas. The assignments have helped me build an accomplished portfolio as I’ve designed restaurants, corporate offices, houses, a dental office and even a hospital room! I still wake up excited to go to class every day because it’s so cool to see how my classmates interpret each assignment. I also had the opportunity to design a house for an actual client and my work won 2nd prize at the National Home Show!
Another great thing about my program is being able to see how my lessons in the classroom translate to the real world. I was hired to work at a furniture showroom for my internship and I learned so much about my industry. I started to master the art of client consultation. Working with clients and understanding how to manage expectations is a key part of my job as an interior designer and I’ve learned so much about how to build and maintain those relationships. As I go into my final year, I feel confident and eager to polish my skills. Graduation doesn’t seem as intimidating because I know I’m ready!
As if all of these amazing experiences weren’t enough, I was hired to be a Student Ambassador in my first year. I feel so honoured to be able to represent Humber and welcome new students just like I was welcomed by such incredible people when I first came here. This job also gives me the opportunity to share my experiences with future students and show them the supportive community that I feel so lucky to be a part of.
From the start of my high school career, I was set on a path to attend University. I took academic level courses, which in my final two years of high school turned into university level courses. I had the marks and the enthusiasm and I was all set to apply to universities, or so I thought.
I have always known that I wanted to be in the arts. Ever since I was little I wanted to be an actress; I would dress up, recite monologues and put on shows with my brother. As I got older, I fell in love with films. I had a collection of DVDs and my favorite part about putting on a movie was the special features. Before I would watch the movie, I would devour everything related to behind the scenes: interviews, talks about casting, anything! I fell in love with the magic of movies. I knew from that moment on I wanted to be behind the camera and make films in any capacity possible.
Although I absolutely loved film, I was torn. I saw how hard it was for my single mother who had no post-secondary education, to work and support us and I didn’t want to find myself in that position. I wanted an education to fall back on and I wanted a degree, as no one else in my family had one. I also thought that a degree would be useful for my future. If I found myself struggling in film or got tired of long set hours, I could work for a broadcaster or media company. I figured if I had to work a 9 to 5 job at least it would be in a field I’m interested in.
With this new insight I started to research universities, to no avail. Every program I read said that the courses were academic and theoretical based. I didn’t want to learn how to make films, I wanted to make films. My mom suggested I look into colleges. Initially, I looked down on this idea, as I thought it was a place for individuals who couldn’t make it into the big universities and I still wanted a degree. However, after searching, I came across Humber. It had everything I wanted, I was able to get the degree I’d always dreamed of as well as get hands-on practical experience and actually make my own films! It was my younger self’s dream come true!
I took a tour and fell in love with the campus, it was so close to the water, similar to my hometown. It was also a short ride away from Toronto which was exciting to my small town self. Seeing the studios in the Media building is what sold me though. The studios had large doors and I felt like I was in Hollywood. After the tour I applied to the Film and Media Production program and started that following September. I made it to Humber and it gave me the confidence to believe I could make it to Hollywood too!
If you were to ask me in high school where I saw myself attending post-secondary, I would have said without any hesitation, university. Like many, I allowed the stigmas surrounding college to push me into thinking the pathway to success upon graduation was through university and university only. I had never even considered looking at alternative routes, despite my strong disliking to large class sizes and the lack of hands on learning within a university environment. With my gap year almost up, I would have certainly continued down the path to university if it wasn’t for my older brother’s positive experiences with Humber.
Coming from a small rural town, I hadn’t heard much about institutions outside of an hour radius from my home, let alone schools in Toronto. But once I saw the promising direction my older brother was headed in within his program and the skills he was learning at Humber, I was hooked. My decision to apply to Humber was solidified after learning they offered degree programs like a university, but within a hands-on college setting. Yet, I still had no clue on what program would be best suited for me and that was worrisome. That’s when I was advised to take the Humber career finder which helped narrow in on my interests and skills. Having been an avid member of the local theatre community throughout my childhood and youth, paired with my knack for writing and my keen eye for detail, my results opened up the world of public relations to me.
And while I felt certain I had made the correct program choice, despite not knowing really anything at all about PR, I was nervous to be back in a school setting. Would I be able to keep up with my course load? Would I be able to balance my classes and living away from home for the first time? My nerves were quickly diminished during my first week and it’s safe to say they never returned! My professors’ lessons were relevant and timely to the growing industry and they immediately provided opportunities outside the classroom to test our newly learned skills. I felt supported by my professors and peers through my transition which only grew the love for my program even more.
While I didn’t know much about PR when I started, having now completed 75 per cent of my program, I feel confident that I am well prepared to successfully complete my internship and will flourish within the industry upon graduation. I am forever thankful for Humber’s role in my life and for fueling my passion for the PR industry!
I thought I’d never get out of high school. Due to health reasons, I was 20 and still attending classes with about a year to go. Despite multiple meetings with guidance counsellors, it wasn’t until I was speaking with a teacher that I saw a way out. This teacher was the one who said, “You’re definitely capable, why don’t you just apply to college as a mature student?”
Wait, hold the phone! What was a mature student and why had I never heard of it before? It turned out that mature student status fit me perfectly, and so began my journey with postsecondary education. I started the Interior Decorating program at Humber College the following September. I loved the students, teachers and classes, but realized after my first year that a career in interior decorating was not for me. It was actually the networking opportunities organized by faculty, and speaking to professionals in the field that helped me realize that. So, in an effort to find my path, I spent over a year working full-time before trying college again.
The next time I went to college, I chose the Baking and Pastry Arts program at George Brown College. I chose George Brown because it was the only college at the time that offered the specific program I was looking for. Even before completing the program I knew that again, it wasn’t ideal for my future.
Instead of being discouraged, I felt grateful! I was happy that I had the opportunity to realize that the programs I had taken would not satisfy me as a career, before spending a few years trying to make them work. After a lot of thought and soul searching about where I wanted to be in the future, I decided on the field of accounting.
I knew this time that I wanted to get a degree, so I started to research my options. I found that Humber had a Bachelor of Commerce – Accounting program, which would enable me to be in the same academic position upon graduation as any university. The program also included a 14-week internship, which would actually give me a leg up from university grads in terms of practical work experience. I looked at universities as well, but found that Humber was much more accommodating with my mature student status, and I had such a great experience the first time, I knew it was the best option for me. It also meant that at the end of my four-year program I would have much less debt when entering the workforce. Bonus!
Now, completing my third year of the program, I still think I made the right choice. Humber has supported my academic growth through the small class sizes and the personal relationships forged with teachers. The fact that my path didn’t include a high school diploma hasn’t prevented me from achieving honours status every semester, which still constantly surprises people when they hear that I am a mature student.
During high school, my goal was to enter the veterinary field. I spent my time shadowing a vet, working as a farm hand and completing a co-op in my final year. I thought I had everything mapped out but still had some doubts. I loved English, art and won several writing awards, but was still determined to go into the sciences. I enrolled in a veterinary technician program and attended a college away from home. I thought being a vet was what I’d be doing for the rest of my life. Once I started my studies I realized the program and the career path wasn’t a good match. It just didn’t feel right and certainly didn’t fit in with my long-term goals. I was having a hard time finding happiness with something I once loved. After completing one semester I decided to take some time off to find my new niche.
Afterwards, I felt defeated but knew I wanted to go back to postsecondary. I worked full-time and took continuous professional learning courses in my spare time. I knew I was a creative person with a keen eye for detail. A coworker of mine had just graduated and was starting out in the field of public relations (PR). The work she was doing was so interesting to me; it had all the design and writing elements I was looking for. I asked for her advice and she gave a great perspective on the industry. She was a recent graduate of Humber’s Public Relations advanced diploma: one of Canada’s longest running public relations programs.
I began my research and started calling corporate offices and agencies to see what educational background their staff had. Humber was always on the list. I took an introduction to PR course online and fell in love. I knew I found a match!
However, I had some concerns about going back to school. What if this wasn’t the right fit? What if I fail again? Any concerns I had about coming to a new school were eliminated during my first class. My writing lab helped re-affirm my passion and made me believe this was where I belonged. The smaller classrooms felt like my voice mattered during class discussions. The biggest change was the professors. They went out of their way to check-in with me, asked if I needed help and provided volunteer or work opportunities. All of our lessons felt relevant to current industry standards. My experience at Humber was so different from my last college; this was truly a change for the better.
Now in my final year, I am confident and prepared for my internship. Humber has provided me with the best education for my future. My internship employer was confident I had the best skills needed to be successful. Looking into the future, I hope to work for a corporate office doing either internal or digital communications. Regardless of where I started, Humber has been exactly what I needed all along, I just didn’t know it!
Graduating high school and deciding on which post-secondary school to attend was hard, until I learned about Humber. Researching the different colleges to attend, I wanted to ensure that I chose the one with the most hands-on. I had an interest in entering the radio industry and now finishing my program of “Broadcasting - Radio”, I feel satisfied with all the knowledge and skills I have gained. Especially with such a competitive and fast-paced media world, I wanted to ensure to get connected to professionals to understand the job.
Coming to Humber, I was only focused on learning one aspect of announcing but after graduating I have discovered the great number of options I have to work in. I’d never attended a post-secondary, so this was all new to me. The professors made the adjustment exciting and passed on so much knowledge from their experience having actual jobs in the industry. Within the two years, there was a chance to build connections and feel more comfortable graduating. I will be able to take everything I have learned easily take into other parts of media. I entered the program with an interest in radio and now graduating from the program, made full of passion to succeed.
After graduating high school, I was so lost. I knew I wanted to help people, but I didn’t know which profession that entailed. Was it to be a teacher? A nurse? A lawyer? A doctor? I had no clue! But I felt the need to go to school right after high school anyways so that is what I did. I then found myself halfway through a degree, in a program where I wasn’t passionate about what I was doing. After many discussions with family and friends I had to make the difficult decision to stop my education there and try and find my passion.
I was nervous to start over again. I felt like I would be behind in life while watching my graduating class move forward, but after searching I finally found a program that stood out to me. When I found my program here at Humber, the Bachelor of Health Science - Workplace Health and Wellness program, I felt like everything made sense. A program to give me the tools of the things I wanted to do so I can build a firm foundation to create my path. I constantly see myself using the skills that I am learning in my everyday life and am seeing so many opportunities opening! Being in my last year of school, I can confidently say that I am optimistic about my feature career endeavors. I can’t wait to see what the world has in store for me once I graduate.
I have always known I am destined to work with people, but how I was going to do that, I was not sure. When I decided to start my degree that was a hard decision to decide what career to pursue because I wanted to do something that would not only benefit me but have a positive impact on others as well. I thought about it very carefully and then I made a conscious decision that I would pursue a career in human resources. In hindsight, it was the correct decision to make as I was also working in the field. The time had now come to choose a school that would bring out the best in me and that would prepare me for my future endeavors.
I applied to three universities and one college and was accepted by all. For some reason even before being accepted my interest was heightened in Humber College. The choice of Humber College over the other institutions is a decision I have never regretted. The fact is, Humber College was the only institution to which I was accepted who offered an opportunity for on-the-job training for which I was extremely happy. That for me was the most decisive factor in my choice of Humber College.
When I began Humber, I felt lost and alone being in a new environment but then benefitted from a mentoring program called First Year Experience. This mentorship program helped me tremendously through my first year of College. My mentor kept me abreast of what was happing on campus and guided me in finding my way around the physical College. Being a part of FYE was the right decision as it made me far more comfortable in my first year of College. This program was so helpful to me that I decided to offer my service as a mentor to FYE for the past three years to assist incoming students to help them get settled.
The Human Resources Management program at Humber College is of excellent quality. My professors are industry professionals or retired industry professionals who can provide a rounded experience in a unique way based on their experience. Humber College is uniquely different in their approach in providing the experience of a lifetime and thoroughly prepares one for the working experience. My experience at Humber College has been both rewarding and fulfilling and one that I will always be vocal about.
Both my father and my brother are engineers. After graduating from high school I was eager to begin down the same path.
I started electrical engineering at a university. However, it quickly became apparent the program just wasn’t for me, so I left to work full time. The next September, determined to achieve what I believed was my calling, I entered into a photonics engineering technology program at another college. I completed the three year program and received my advanced diploma but was longing for something else. At the time, I believed gaining a bachelor’s degree in engineering was what I really needed. So again, I was off to another post-secondary, this time, in beautiful British Columbia. I thought my passion was in mechanical engineering. After three semesters of studying it was clear it just wasn’t what I needed. I spent a year working in manufacturing and figured out that engineering was not for me.
Confused about my future I travelled to Northern Ontario, Thailand, and cycled across North America to broaden my world view. Returning home with a clearer goal, I completed multiple career tests online including the Humber Career Finder.
This test from Humber consists of a quick personality test followed by a comprehensive list of programs Humber offers that would best suit my personality type. Industrial design jumped out at me! I did a lot of research into what industrial design entails. I realized a career in industrial design would allow me to embrace my love of mechanical objects, material properties and manufacturing but also allow me to embrace my creative self.
The only thing stopping me was that I had never really sketched before. To ease my mind I attended Humber’s Open House and talked with current students and faculty where I learned about the Design Foundation program.
The Humber College Design Foundation certificate program is no joke. I think I worked harder in that one year than ever before! Graduating from the certificate program allowed me to feel confident in my skills and helped me build a portfolio for the Industrial Design application.
Soon to start the second year in the Bachelor of Industrial Design program I couldn’t be happier (and my marks reflect this). It’s a long journey but it’s been very rewarding!
I never imagined I would be stepping into the shoes of a student again. It was a huge decision to go back to school after already receiving my diploma. I was both excited and nervous to be going back because I had a very clear picture about what I expected from my next program and wanted to go to a school that would help me achieve my goals.
Any fears I had were dismantled with the number of workshops, social events and information that was available to me, which made my transition back to college a smooth one. The Humber community is really incredible! I had no problem fitting in as there are students from all walks of life at Humber. I can without a doubt say that this is the best school for me.
Going into my second year of the Bachelor of Nursing program, I’m so confident in my skills. My professors not only taught me the theoretical knowledge I need, but they are also nurses working in the field; learning from their years of experience will give me a competitive edge when I graduate.
The most exciting thing about Humber’s programs is the getting opportunities to translate your theoretical knowledge to practical skills in and outside of the classroom. Even before starting my work placement I was able to practice my counselling skills in the simulation lab so I was prepared going into a professional work environment. The program has an extensive amount of placement opportunities. Industry partners like St. Michael’s Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and Toronto Public Health have given me an in-depth look at different types of nursing practices. With clinical placements in new born, school health, mental health and physiotherapy in my second year alone, I’m truly getting an experience you can’t find anywhere else!
I thought I’d be a doctor or a pilot. In high school I was taking all university-level math and science courses that would lead me to one of these dream careers. Funny how things change!
After graduating high school I took a few years off. I originally planned to go to university but quickly realized that I was drawn to Humber’s hands-on approach to learning. I applied to Humber’s Business Management diploma program. My plan was to graduate, become an entrepreneur and open my own venture. However, during this time I recognized that studying business was not the right fit for me. At the same time I came to the conclusion that college helped me discover myself and understand that it’s okay to feel uncertain about the future.
At that point I learned I had a passion for design. When I was younger I always looked forward to decorating my bedroom for Christmas. My inspiration for design started with watching all the design shows on HGTV. It’s amazing how design can change the whole entire mood of a room.
Humber’s Interior Decorating program seemed like the perfect fit and now I can happily say that I am in the right program. Every day I wake up excited to go to class and learn. One of my favourite class projects to date was designing a celebrity’s condo, which included floor plans, design space, theme and concept planning. I feel privileged to learn from well-respected industry professionals, many owning interior decorating firms. This year, my professors asked me and some classmates to decorate the lobby of The Westin Hotel in Toronto for the winter holidays.
Upon graduating, I plan to open my own design business focusing on upscale residential and commercial spaces. My goal is to create aesthetically beautiful spaces that people can share with each other and create memories. I feel confident that my learning experience at Humber will prepare me to achieve that goal!
Growing up, I was always told by my family that university is the only way, with that I was fully convinced that was what I needed, so I attended one away from home. The experience was very rewarding and exactly what I needed in order to grow as a person. I was heavily involved in extracurricular activities throughout my university experience, I even did a service trip abroad and helped build a house for a family in need. With that being said, I also learned what worked and what didn’t work for me within the classroom. I do not regret going to university however, once I graduated I felt like I needed more.
The thought of going back to school was very daunting, because I’d already done five years at university and I wasn’t sure if I had that motivation to do it all again. After doing a lot of research I found Humber to be the best option for my future plans. Once I made my decision, I applied only to Humber for the Hospitality – Event Management Diploma program. I chose to come to Humber because of the practical experience that I would be able to gain from my program. The curriculum is much different than what I was used to from university, in the best ways possible. The main things that stood out to me were the smaller class sizes, the resources available, and the fact that your teacher knows you as a person and not just a number; they know you by name!
The professors here also work part time within the field providing the class with the most up to date knowledge, and the best connections within our industry. This was a big change for me because I didn’t just feel like a student, I felt like an industry professional in training, prepared for the future.
Fast-forwarding to now, I am a very proud Humber student and I work as a Student Ambassador on campus. I’ve been provided with the opportunity to meet so many great people and to make many connections. I’ve just completed my first year and I already feel well equipped as an event manager! I am also very excited for the upcoming year where I have the opportunity apply more of what I’ve learned by completing my internship and hopefully studying abroad.
Overall, it’s been a big adjustment, but definitely one that is worth it. It’s amazing what you’re capable of doing when you set your mind to it! I set my mind to come to Humber and I am very happy with where I am right now. I believe that Humber has helped me pave a path towards a promising future!
It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in a short period of time and not even know it. When I finished high school I was set on going to college for fitness and health promotion. I researched a lot of different colleges and was unsure of which to choose. Humber was my first choice because it offered so many opportunities. When it came to finally making a decision, I ended up choosing an offer elsewhere because I panicked as the deadline approached.
The semester began, I moved into residence, met many great people but felt like something was missing. I took some time and reevaluated my choice. After some self-reflection, I rediscovered Humber and found a program that was the perfect fit.
I liked numbers, problem solving, studying, and networking and realized I had been developing these skills my entire life. That’s how the decision to pursue an education in business arose. With the blink of an eye, I am now in my second year of the Business Administration diploma program.
I plan to transfer to the Bachelor of Commerce, Finance program after completing my diploma because this program pathway allowed to me to get the most credits toward my degree. Humber has been an incredible place to learn and this community helped me develop my skills and knowledge further inside and outside the classroom.
All students deserve acknowledgement, inspiration and a place of belonging. Humber College provides the whole package! I could not picture myself attending college anywhere else.
After graduating from high school, my journey for post-secondary began. Humber College was the institution that I wanted to attend from the beginning. The main reason I always wanted to attend Humber was the personalized attention and applied learning that was involved inside the classroom. I felt this allowed me to be successful in a post-secondary environment. The program that I was interested in at the time was the paramedic program. I always admired the paramedics as a kid. I remember thinking that “I will become a paramedic one day.” I tried my hardest to get myself into the program. Unfortunately, it did not work out for me, but I was meant for something different.
At this point, I was stuck and did not know what to do. With haste, I went to another college for a chemical engineering program that was three years long. However, I did not feel happy and began to dislike my classes, and it took a toll on my grades. So, I withdrew after one year and worked a full-time warehouse job for a year. At the same time, through advice from friends and family, I found Humber College once again! I decided to make a 360 degree turn and come to Humber College for the Business Administration program for the three years advanced diploma. During these three years, I joined the First-Year Experience program at Humber as a mentee and then a Senior Peer Mentor. I enjoyed it and I had my convocation in November 2019. It felt like a great accomplishment for me.
However, I wanted to challenge myself a little more, so I decided to do a Degree in Human Resources Management. However, I was thinking of going to university to complete it. When I heard that Humber has the degree I wanted to pursue, I jumped at the opportunity. When I attended a campus tour at the Lakeshore Campus, it made my decision firmer in attending Humber College again!
Humber has given me so many opportunities that I would have never thought possible to experience, learn and grow as an individual. Humber continues to help and challenge me to be the best I can be as I hope to continue to inspire, lead and bring my dream as human resources professional into reality. I am sincerely grateful for the people and experiences I have encountered within the Humber community. It played a role in my success as a student and an individual. When Humber says “WE GOT YOU,” They mean it!
