Humber College held its annual Pathways Fairs last week where students have a chance to network and interact with representatives of universities.
Pathways Fairs are common among colleges and Humbers’ were no exception, they were held at the International Grad School on Jan. 23, the North campus on Jan. 24 and at Lakeshore campus on Jan. 25.
The idea of getting students on pathways for students has existed on Humber’s website for some time now as well as the fair itself.
“We have had this Pathways Fair for at least over 25 years at Humber,” said Judy Tavares, manager of Student Mobility and Pathways at Humber College and one of the organizers of the fair. “And it is, again, a testament to the strong commitment that we have to build these partnerships in these pathways for our students.”
A study in 2014 by the College Quarterly, a peer-reviewed academic journal established in 1993 and published by Seneca College, indicated that in three different programs students who got into universities through pathways initiatives had a slightly higher GPA in most cases than students who didn’t transfer.
At the North campus fair institutions such as Brescia University College, a women’s catholic institution affiliated with Western University in London, were all gathered in the LRC building to take questions and comments from students.
Mary Jane Miller, liaison officer at Brescia, said she chatted with the students and got to know what they were planning and that she was there to help guide them.
Mary Jane Miller, Liaison Officer at Brescia university College Photo credit: David Madureira
Emma Lambert, recruitment and engagement specialist at Cape Breton University, said students should consider where they want to live, what they want to do and what kind of part time jobs they might be interested in.
“Definitely important to think about what you’re getting into…from an academic perspective,” she said.
Emma Lambert, Recruitment and Engagement Specialist at Cape Breton University Photo credit: David Madureira
Lambert said it’s important to speak with staff and students to make sure they’re making an informed decision.
Aziz Sayegh, admissions and recruitment officer for the University of King’s College, said the Halifax school is not selling a product but rather an experience and education.
Aziz Sayegh Admissions and Recruitment Officer for King’s university Photo credit: David Madureira
“So I always tell students find the program that you’re interested in, and we’re more than happy to support you throughout the application process,” he said. “Anything at all the students need.”