Durham College helped students take the next step in their education with its annual Pathways Fair, which took place earlier this month.
The event brings together partner institutions to provide DC students with insights into transfer opportunities, credit articulation and further academic options.
With over 745 pathway options available, the fair offers DC students a chance to explore diploma-to-degree programs, post-graduate certificates and international study opportunities.
Representatives from approximately 20 institutions participated in the event, engaging with students eager to learn about their next steps.
Maddie Gulenchyn, transfer services – client support and engagement representative at Durham College, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and how the event connects students directly with representatives from different institutions.
“It’s giving opportunities to students who have previous post-secondary education to either go on to complete a transfer to a university or a postgraduate certificate program at another institution,” she said.
“This fair is really about getting our articulation partners together so students can meet representatives from schools and explore options for furthering their education,” Gulenchyn added.
According to Gulenchyn, students attending the fair were at various stages in their academic journey. Some had specific institutions in mind, while others were exploring options for the first time.
“Some students don’t know what they’re going to do afterward, and they just want to be able to talk to the universities face-to-face,” she said, adding that these direct interactions provide clarity on credit transfers and program eligibility.
Canadian institutions all over Ontario were represented.
Eric Jin, Associate Director, Direct International Students Recruitment from Niagara College, highlighted the importance of the event in offering students a seamless transition between programs.
“For Durham students looking to continue their studies—whether moving from a diploma to a university degree, another diploma, or a post-graduate program—this fair provides all the information they need in one place,” Jin said.
Participating institutions included Centennial College, which was represented by Student Recruitment Specialist Amy Kearns.
She explained that the event allows students to connect with academic institutions without having to travel.
“Instead of going all the way to Scarborough for Centennial, Toronto for George Brown, or Barrie for Georgian, we come to you,” Kearns said.
She also outlined the transfer process at Centennial, explaining that students apply, receive an offer, and then submit a request for transfer credits, which are reviewed based on curriculum alignment and grade requirements.
Beyond academic transfers, the event provided valuable information on scholarships and other opportunities.
Jin emphasized that meeting representatives in person ensures students receive accurate details about scholarships, admission requirements and additional benefits.
With an emphasis on accessibility and informed decision-making, the Pathways Fair continues to be a key event in helping DC students plan their academic and professional futures.