When Makayla Fairbanks enrolled in the Community and Justice Services Program at Niagara College, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in justice; she’d already earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice and Public Policy from the University of Guelph.
But it wasn’t until she started her co-op placement at the John Howard Society of Niagara in the Bail Supervision Program that she knew what she really wanted to do was work with individuals in the community to provide supervision and support.
“At the University of Guelph, I was thoroughly enjoying classes that focused on the Criminal Justice System and relevant legislation,” said Fairbanks, who now resides in Grimsby. “When I completed my degree, I decided that this was the field that I wanted to go into. I came across the Niagara College Community and Justice Services program online and decided to continue to pursue my education in a field that I had found such a strong interest in.”
That interest translated into high academic achievement for Fairbanks, who graduates on June 10 with the highest grade-point average in the School of Justice and Fitness, earning her the Dean’s Award.
“I am very excited for my upcoming convocation,” she said. “Convocation means a lot to me because it signifies all of the hard work and dedication that I have put into my studies. It also signifies the end of my education and the beginning of my career, which is very exciting.”
Already working at the John Howard Society of Niagara as a Relief Bail Supervision Counsellor, Fairbanks reflected on her time at Niagara College and all she’s achieved over the last two years.
Makayla Fairbanks
Academic achievement: Dean’s Award Winner, School of Justice and Fitness
What led you to study at NC and to your program of study?
The main factor that influenced me to enroll in this program specifically was that (it) offered a 400-hour placement. This would provide relevant experience, but I also went into it with the hope that it may help me to further narrow down my future career aspirations.
Why are you passionate about your field of study?
I am passionate about my field of study because I believe in giving individuals the support that they need to be able to live their most positive lives.
How do you feel about receiving the Dean’s Award, achieving the highest GPA in your program?
I was very overwhelmed when I found out that I would be receiving the Dean’s Award at my convocation ceremony. I am proud of myself for pushing through competing deadlines and obligations. I feel like my hard work and dedication has paid off. It was also amazing to share this news with my family and friends who were just as excited as I was about this award.
To what factors do you attribute your academic achievement? What motivates you to succeed?
The biggest factor that I attribute to my academic achievement is the support of those around me. I had the privilege of learning from the most intelligent, selfless and dedicated professors who were there whenever support and guidance was needed. Additionally, I have the most amazing and supportive friends and family who have helped me to push through the hard days and continue to strive for my goals. My biggest motivator that has pushed me to succeed is my future career goals and wanting to complete my diploma knowing that I put in my greatest effort.
How did you find your program experience – any highlights?
The Community and Justice Services program surpassed my expectations. The courses are high quality and taught by knowledgeable and experienced professors. I would say that the highlight of my program was the valuable placement experience that I was able to gain. I completed my placement at the John
Howard Society of Niagara and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
What did you find rewarding about your program? Does something stand out to you that you will never forget about your time at NC?
Throughout my two years at Niagara College, I gained so much valuable and relevant knowledge that can be applied in my future career. Something that stands out to me is all of the certifications I was able to complete during my time here. I was able to receive certifications in Mental Health First Aid, Psychological First Aid, 4 Seasons of Reconciliation Training, and the Online Training Initiative to Address Human Trafficking. These certifications are relevant in this field of study and therefore provide real value moving forward.
Did you overcome any challenges to graduate?
At times, I definitely found it hard to juggle all of my competing commitments and obligations. Throughout my program, I balanced work, placement, school and home life. This was challenging, but I made a conscientious effort to ensure I was organized and had a plan to ensure that everything that needed to be done was done to the best of my abilities.
Do you feel your NC experience has helped prepare you for the future?
The content that I have learned in my two years here was relevant and valuable for working in this field. Additionally, it has helped me to gain more confidence in myself and my work.
What’s next for you?
I am currently working as a Relief Bail Supervision Counsellor. I hope to continue to work in the field of community supervision as I have found it to be an area of work that I am very passionate about and have thoroughly enjoyed.
