Students Get a Jump Start with January Programs at Loyalist College
By: Marilyn Warren, Communications, Loyalist College
January start dates are available in several Loyalist programs. Students can get a head start on completing a certificate or diploma and graduate job ready — prepared to enter the work force. Program options are available in the School of Business — including Accounting, Business Administration, and Sales and Marketing — Developmental Services Worker, and Media Experience and General Arts and Science. The later two programs are ideal for students wanting to explore their options and determine their strengths and interests. One of the goals of these programs is to prepare students to pursue further studies with confidence and an understanding of their career objectives.
“Students choose the General Arts and Science program at Loyalist for a variety of reasons,” said Pam Fairbank, program coordinator. “Many enroll because they’re unsure of the career they wish to pursue. In addition to core subject requirements, the students choose electives which gives them an opportunity to explore their interests and options. This program is the ideal place for students to sample different subjects and determine what their strengths are. There’s a lot of faculty support to help them decide what they would like to do. Some students complete a one-year certificate, others a two or three-year diploma. Transfer agreements with universities such as Algoma University College, Davenport University, Laurentian University, State University of New York (SUNY) and University of Ontario Institute of Technology have allowed many graduates to turn their diplomas into degrees.”
Lisanne Mitts described enrolling in college as one of the bravest things she has ever done. A single mom for whom public school had not been a positive experience, she took a deep breath and entered Loyalist’s General Arts and Science. “I chose this program because I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do. I did know that I wanted to provide a better life for my daughter and myself. I started in January, which was a great option for me as the classes were smaller and therefore less intimidating. Looking back I can’t believe how nervous I was but the faculty definitely made a difference. Within a few weeks I knew that I belonged there. I graduated on the Dean’s List in 1997 and went directly into a full-time job that I had been offered prior to graduation. Within three years I started my own business in Quinte West and I’m now the owner and director of BrainChild Networks Inc. We provide case management and rehabilitation supports to children and youth that have sustained acquired brain injuries.
“The General Arts and Science program taught me about life-long learning — a philosophy I have completely adopted. Since graduating from Loyalist I’ve taken a number of university and college courses and continue to take classes whenever possible. Education is never a waste of time or money. In my opinion, it’s an investment in which you are guaranteed a positive return.”
To learn about the full range of programs starting in January click here.