It’s not only your neighbours you’ll be studying with at Loyalist. The College’s reputation for excellence in its academic programs draws students from across Canada and around the world. The shared life-experiences of students, from near and far away, adds an important dimension to the learning environment.
Jennifer Hynes is a second-year Chemical Engineering Technologist student who came from St. Brendan’s, a small island off the coast of Newfoundland. “When I first toured the campus I was impressed by its size — I knew I wouldn’t feel lost as a student here. Everyone I met was friendly and helpful. Now that I am in the second year of the three-year program I can honestly say that my initial impression has not changed. The faculty support is amazing and the small class sizes make it possible to receive one-on-one attention. This creates a great atmosphere for us as students. I have made many friends here and I tell everyone back home that this is where they should come.”
The move from Calgary to Belleville was a major life change for Alexander Sargeant — one he was prepared to make to be able to study with the professors in the Sports Journalism program. Their resumes reflect extensive industry experience and he felt that learning from them would be to his advantage. The transition into his new environment was made easier with the support of his program peers and athletic teammates. “By playing varsity sports I’ve made some really close friends — ones I believe will be lifelong friendships. These relationships, combined with those I’ve made with my journalism peers, have made me feel very welcome at Loyalist. There are only 13 students in my class — never before have I been part of such a closely-knit group.”
“I’ve met people from all over Canada while studying at Loyalist,” said Sarah Hawkins from Ajax. “First I studied Photojournalism and met classmates from cities such as Toronto and Montreal. My studies motivated me to explore Canada. Following graduation I headed west and lived in British Columbia and Alberta for two years. Now I’m a student in the post-graduate International Support Worker program.”
“When a friend told me about Loyalist’s Photojournalism program I went online to investigate, talked to some industry professionals and learned that this is the best program in Canada,” said Shannon Storey, a second-year student from Abbotsford, BC. “Our professors are completely invested in our success and it is a great privilege to be learning from such respected photojournalists. I’m learning to be a better storyteller through pictures and words, capturing images that communicate a story in a powerful way. Even though I am far from my family and friends, I’ve met a lot of amazing people who have made Belleville feel like my home away from home. With the smaller class sizes I’ve really got to know my classmates and instructors — the camaraderie this creates makes it an excellent learning environment. I lament the fact that this is only a two-year program as my Loyalist experience has been so great.”
Learn about the program choices and campus life at Loyalist, or register for a campus tour.