November 5 was a day of discovery and exploration for over 20 grade nine students who traded their high school classrooms for Niagara College’s campuses for Take Our Kids to Work Day.
Most of the teens spent the morning at the Welland Campus where they met current students and employees. The welcoming touchpoint offered students an introduction to NC Life and the many programs and career paths available.
The team at NC-TRAC (Therapeutic Recreation Activity Collective) – including current students in the Recreation Therapy program – invited students into the snoeozelen multi-sensory room for an interactive art therapy activity – an interactive example of NC’s innovative, hands-on approach to learning. Students were excited to show off their creativity and engage with current students.
In the afternoon, students got a peek into the many careers that keep a college campus running. Guided by their parents, guardian or NC sponsor, students engaged in meaningful conversations about career paths.
Each student had a unique and personalized experience at NC with their NC sponsor.
Charlotte Frail and Amelia Cousineau experienced VR simulation, nursing, and justice labs, and sat in on a lecture with a guest speaker on the topic of brain injuries. Frail and Cousineau tried bariatric and aging suits as well as shooting and driving simulations, guided by Fitz Morrison, Shawn Black, Jeff Skelton, and Jeffery Ko.
Locklyn McKnight
Locklyn McKnight toured the health, broadcasting and trades labs at Welland Campus before exploring the Teaching Greenhouse and library at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. She also toured culinary and saw baking and pastry arts students in action.
“The experience of Take Our Kids to Work Day gave students space to reflect on their interests and how these might connect to future studies or careers,” said NC’s Brooke Pasco who co-organized the event with Jill Cook.
Thanks to all those who participated!
