A lifelong resident of St. Catharines, Community and Justice Services grad Ruby Hill transferred to NC after spending a year studying Sociology at Brock University. While she wasn’t entirely certain of her long-term career path at the time, she was drawn to a program that would allow her to explore her interests in law, justice, and community support while helping her determine her future direction.
Her hard work and dedication paid off. Graduating with an impressive 95.79 per cent average, Ruby has been named the Dean’s Award recipient for the School of Justice and Fitness.
Throughout her studies, Ruby balanced nearly full-time work, operated a photography business, maintained an active social life, and cared for her pet horse, all while excelling academically. Along the way, she discovered a growing interest in crisis intervention and domestic violence counselling, experiences that have helped shape her future career goals.
Ruby is preparing to continue her education while pursuing career opportunities in her field. She plans to work toward a Social Work degree through Algoma University while building a career dedicated to supporting individuals and strengthening communities.
Q&A with Ruby Hill
How do you feel about your upcoming convocation day? What does it personally mean to you?
A huge achievement and a step towards furthering my education..
What led you to study at Niagara College and your program of study?
I wasn’t entirely set on what I wanted to do postgrad. I switched to Niagara College and furthered my education in a program that intrigued me while figuring out my next steps.
What interests you in, or why are you passionate about, your field of study?
I am extremely passionate about law and justice, specifically youth corrections and getting involved in a career that can impact the lives of others.
Do you have a specific career goal in mind when you enrolled in your program? Did it change since you started?
I wasn’t set on a career when I started at NC, but now I would love to work in crisis intervention and domestic violence counselling.
How did you find your program experience? Any highlights?
I loved the hands-on aspects of the program and thoroughly enjoyed the experiences the teachers had to offer.
What did you find rewarding about your program and area of study? Does something stand out to you that you will never forget about your time at NC?
Learning ways in which to best assist the community in a field that is extremely challenging.
Did you face and overcome any challenges to graduate?
All through college I worked almost full-time hours, balanced a photography business, social life, and my pet horse.
Did you work a placement or co-op as part of your program?
I had my placement at the John Howard Society.
Were you involved in any clubs, teams, or extracurricular activities during your time at NC?
I volunteer with United Way Niagara outside of NC.
Do you feel your NC experience has helped prepare you for the future?
I feel prepared to start a full-time career and am eager to apply my knowledge to the field.
What’s next for you?
I will be working full-time in a position in my field while pursuing my part-time education and working towards my degree in Social Work at Algoma University.
