Durham College students had the chance to explore next steps in their academic careers at the recent Pathways event at the Oshawa campus.
The fair connected students with transfer advisors, credit‑assessment experts and recruiters from more than dozen universities who help map out routes from diplomas to degrees.
Athabasca University, Trent University and Humber College were among the institutions speaking with students one‑on‑one. For Athabasca, the goal was to show how far a Durham College credential can go.
Michael Shouldice, manager of partnerships and collaborations, said the Alberta‑based university offers many pathways for DC graduates.
“I’m here at Durham College to talk about some of the 540 pathways that a Durham College graduate can bring their diploma into [in] one of our bachelor’s programs, and about 42 students a year do that,” he said.
Shouldice added that Athabasca’s fully online model appeals to students balancing work, family and school.
“All of our stuff is online, which can be really important for some people as we’re trying to balance family and work commitments,” he said.
At Trent University, transfer advisor Jonathan Semugaza said many students arrive at the event unsure of their next steps. After speaking with recruiters, he said they often leave with a clearer sense of direction.
“You have students that are kind of curious,” he said. “After talking to some of us, they usually have a better idea not only of what they’re looking for, but also how they want to get there.”
Semugaza said the event helps students build confidence in their academic future.
With Humber College, recruitment coordinator Katie Liddell said many students are already thinking ahead to degree programs.
“I’ve been talking to them about admission requirements and what we’re going to be looking at when it comes to their application.” she said.
Liddell added it’s important for students to consider their options.
“Look at the different institutions and what they offer and who is going to recognize your prior learning,” she said.
For some students, the event offered clarity after time away from school. Early Childhood Education student Hafsal Sman said speaking with representatives helped her narrow her options.
“I got some very valuable information,” she said. “It helped me actually see better what to go towards next.”
Pre‑Health student Eric Fitzgerald said returning to academics after more than a decade has been a learning experience.
“I didn’t know how confident I was with how much of the knowledge I retained,” he said. “They offer a lot of pathways into different programs … so it leaves a lot of options open.”
The Pathways event runs once a year, giving students a chance to explore opportunities that could shape their future long after graduation.