Aside from learning more about something he’s always had an interest in, Becket Busken didn’t have a specific career goal in mind when he enrolled in the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program.
The St. Catharines resident, who’s already put his skills learned at NC to work as a building technician for the City of St. Catharines, will officially celebrate the end of his program on June 14 when he receives his diploma during NC’s 3 p.m. convocation ceremony. He’ll also be recognized as the Dean’s Award winner for the School of Trades.
We talked to Busken ahead of his graduation to look back at his time at NC.
Becket (Bec) Busken
Hometown: Ottawa
Currently lives in: St. Catharines
Academic achievement: Dean’s Award Winner, School of Trades
How do you feel about your upcoming convocation day?
I’m excited about it. It feels like the closing of a chapter in my life. I am proud of myself for finishing this program despite all the hard things going on in my life.
How do you feel about receiving the Dean’s Award for achieving the highest GPA in your program?
It feels like such an honour and accomplishment. I put a lot of hard work into school, and I am happy to see it pay off.
What were you doing before attending NC?
I completed another two-year diploma program at Trillium College and worked as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) for the three years prior to starting at NC.
What led you to study at NC and to your program of study?
Carpentry and building have always been something I’ve been interested in, even from a very young age. I enjoy the sense of accomplishment when you put something together and right away you can see what you’ve done.
How did you find your program experience?
I really enjoyed the school atmosphere and getting to know my teachers. You realize they really want the best for you and [they] are willing to help you along the way if you just ask.
Did you overcome any challenges to graduate?
Yes, I was working two jobs, caring for my two dogs and [my] house while studying. At times it felt like I wasn’t going to make it through school, but I just took it one day at a time and kept going.
Did you work a placement or co-op as part of your program?
Yes, I had a co-op as part of my program. I worked for the City of St. Catharines as a student building technician. It has been a great learning experience for me.
What have you been doing since you completed your studies at NC?
I continue to work at the City of St. Catharines part time. I am also still working as an RMT, and I have been picking up some odd jobs using the skills I learned in the program. I am still looking for the perfect job opportunity.
What’s next for you?
I am working towards a career goal right now: I’d like to find the time to study for and take my BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) exams.
