h2. Grad Profile – Connie Adams
h3. Developmental Services Worker program leads to new opportunities
In the years since high school, Connie decided not to go on to college. Instead, she married, raised a family and joined the workforce. A few years ago, while working as a supply educational assistant, a school principal encouraged her to think about the idea. Summoning up plenty of courage, she leapt into the Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program at the Orillia Campus. What she thought would be a two-year program became a launching point for new career directions. “The staff at the Orillia Campus were amazing. They were so encouraging and really made me feel like I could succeed,” Connie recalls. After graduating from DSW, Connie realized she wanted to enhance that education. The mother of three soon began studying for her B.A. in Sociology at the Barrie Campus, through the Laurentian University at Georgian partnership.
h3. Aiming for teachers’ college
Connie graduated after three years this past May, and is planning to return to take evening courses. Her goal is to attend teachers’ college starting in the fall of 2007 and become an elementary school teacher in Simcoe County. The university program allowed Connie the flexibility of working a couple of days a week and going to school a couple of days a week. During school, she was also involved with 10 different organizations as a volunteer. She also tutored and mentored other students – an experience she would recommend. “The students I tutored were amazing. I’m sure I learned as much from them as they did from me.” Connie’s studies have also been an education for her three children – two are in Grade 12 and one is in Grade 6. The children learned to take on more responsibilities and were inspired by their mother’s success in studying and working. One of her children is already excited by the possibility of entering Georgian’s small engine program next year.
h3. Georgian education is practical
As a supply educational assistant for 30 Simcoe County schools and a supply teacher for five schools, Connie is putting her education to work in practical settings. Connie loves teaching and also likes to keep busy. A decade ago, she and her husband purchased a farmhouse near Minesing, about 15 minutes from Barrie. They put in heat, hydro, plumbing and began to renovate room by room. The 120-year-old home is now a thing of beauty, with a fieldstone inlay floor and charming country accents. Connie and her children often enjoy gathering around the piano, which she plays, while the kids play the flute, violin and trumpet. Connie foresees continuing education in her future and says no one should give up on education because of age or background. “I think the program I took is a wonderful program for someone who is mature and who has never been to college,” she says. “You’re never too old!”
h2. Dream Catcher Gala
When: Friday October 17, 2006, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Casino Rama
Do you believe that dreams really can come true? Join us for an evening of magic and grandeur at the Casino Rama hotel. The Silvernightingale Ballroom is the ideal setting for this gala black tie dinner. Amy Sky, Canadian singer/songwriter, will be the headline act at the first-ever Georgian Gala. This is an exclusive opportunity to support awards and scholarships – and most importantly – the dreams of Georgian students.
Please consider approaching your company or any companies you know who might wish to support Georgian College’s awards and scholarships by attending this wonderful event.
For more information please contact Hank Thibideau, Manager, Fundraising Events and Donor Relations, at (705) 728-1968, ext. 5284.
h2. Membership has its benefits!
Georgian College Alumni Day at Canada’s Wonderland – August 28, 2006. Tickets only $28.
Contact the Alumni Office to get your tickets today! Call (705) 728-1968, ext. 1213, or e-mail amurray@georgianc.on.ca
h2. 21st Annual Auto Show
Run by Canadian Automotive Institute (CAI) students, the annual auto show provides a weekend of fun for our visitors.
When: September 15, 16, 17, 2006
Where: Barrie Campus
For more information, check the Auto Show website.
