Stephen Doidge is the City of Quinte West Computer Systems Coordinator. It’s a career he’s enjoyed for almost 13 years. Stephen cites recent projects such as the 19 wireless site locations, and the 21 surveillance cameras implemented in conjunction with the OPP, as exciting highlights. “A large part of the career success that I enjoy today would have to be attributed to the College Prep program at Loyalist College. I was a transport driver for 18 years and then an injury made it necessary for me to find a new line of work. Returning to school was daunting — it had been many years since I’d used my math, English, computer and science skills. The foundation I developed in those subjects gave me the confidence to enroll in the Information Systems program at Loyalist and two years later I graduated with my diploma. Without the guidance of the College Prep faculty I truly would have been lost when I returned to school.”
The College Prep program enables students to earn their grade 12 equivalency or upgrade and refresh their knowledge and skills. This improves their qualifications for applying to college programs and increases employment opportunities. The program offers a monthly entry and the length of the program depends upon the individual’s academic needs. An interview process, and an assessment of acquired skills and program needs, determines what the individual’s entry level will be. Many graduates pursue further studies, choosing from the wide-range of post-secondary programs at Loyalist.
“I dropped out of high school and worked at several retail jobs while raising my children,” said Susan Paranuik. “Two friends of mine had taken the College Prep program and were continuing into further post-secondary studies. They encouraged me to do the same. Since making that decision I haven’t looked back. The program prepared me academically and gave me that boost in confidence to move ahead. I went from College Prep into the Pre-Health Science program and then graduated from Loyalist’s Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) program. When I graduated I worked in Nunavut for four months and in 2003 I began working at Stirling Manor Nursing Home. I’m still there today. I love my job and I’m so glad I made the choices that I did.”
“When I left the Canadian Air Force it had been 33 years since I had attended high school,” explained Douglas Bate. “I felt that I needed an academic tune up to enter a full-time college diploma program so registered in College Prep. I’m now in my second year of Business Administration at Loyalist. I tell everyone I know about my positive experience with College Prep and have given the information to my military case manager to pass on to other releasing members.”
“It had been 12 years since I was in college and I wanted to brush off the cobwebs before returning,” said Renee Ratusznyk. “I owe a lot to the faculty in College Prep. They are insightful, friendly and very helpful — truly a wonderful team of people. I’m currently in my third semester of the Developmental Services Worker program. College Prep gave me the confidence as a mature student to pursue further studies.”
Daniel Dufoe worked in the manufacturing industry for 12 years before returning to school. “I decided to take the C
ollege Prep program to refresh my skills. The biggest thing I learned was that I am more than capable of succeeding in the Developmental Services Worker program. The faculty is truly exceptional — they not only taught me, they enabled me to reach my goals. This spring I will be graduating.”
Information Sytems Coordinator, Registered Practical Nurse, Business Administration, Developmental Services Worker — a range of careers that all began with a strong foundation achieved through College Prep at Loyalist College. Find out more by visiting loyalistcollege.com.