We sat down with KPM Power’s Lead of People and Culture, Chang Duong, to chat about the importance of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) for employers.

"The education I received from the TESL program was exactly what my career needed."

"Humber helped me rebuild my foundations on research. I wasn't confident in my skills until this program." 

"I gained intercultural, self-managing, adaptability and leadership skills, and achieved great results." 

“What’s great about Humber is they teach you how to apply real-life skills in the workforce. I’m starting my career confident that I can efficiently do my job.”

"Everyone at my placement was super supportive and understanding. If you needed help, there was always someone willing to lend a hand. I never felt silly for asking questions, and this positive work environment was key to my growth as a professional communicator." 

"After graduating, I was accepted to one of the best and most competitive teaching programs in the world – my experience at Humber definitely gave me an advantage." 

“I think it's really important to have an internship to get experience, make connections and make all kinds of mistakes because it's the best place to do that." 

"Everyone has made me feel like a part of the community, and that’s been very encouraging.” 

"Humber's PR program has a reputation for being an industry leader in Canada – for a good reason. The last eight months I've spent as a student has been the most challenging but also rewarding experience of my academic career."

"I think work-integrated learning is the best part of the diploma program. You can learn if you really like what you studied or if that job is not for you. It's an opportunity to know if you're on the right path." 

"Because of my co-op, I've learned several life skills that are still helping me today. I have met several important people and spoken at tables I used to think I wasn’t qualified to sit at." 

“This WIL experience made me feel more confident about my career path. I’m happy with what I’m doing.”  

"I think that work-integrated learning merges the theory that you're learning with the practical concepts … just to see what really nudges you, what gives you a spark." 

"What I liked about Humber was the classes dedicated to preparing you for the workplace. There were so many insights and new ways of thinking. I had the technical skills, but now I knew how to apply myself to earn an income." 

“It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on experience. It’s also a chance to connect with companies in your field of interest and experience your first step into your career while still in school." 

“We have such a great community at Humber. I would encourage every student to reach out and meet new people at the college – making connections has helped me tremendously.” 

“People want someone who’s eager and willing to learn. I tried my best to just make sure I stood out.” - Mattea Giachini

“I was surprised by how much more I learned from a small family-owned business.”  

“When I graduate, I will have a clear idea of the exact type of job I want to pursue. I will know the exact steps I need to take to successfully secure my dream job.”  

“When it was time for my work placement, I knew I had the skills needed to succeed.”  

“Nobody learns everything in one year. But I’ve convinced myself that I can work as a graphic designer in an agency.”

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I really wanted to make a difference in the pandemic.”

“I knew if I took a co-op program at Humber, it would give me more connections.”

“Youth are the most vulnerable population and they’re often not heard or seen. I want to be somebody who advocates for them.”

“This experience helped me find the direction I want my life to go in.” 

“It was right up my alley for what I want to do.”