How to narrow down your post-secondary choices
By Laura Dokis
Completing a post-secondary education or training program can increase your opportunities in the job market and help you to secure the type of employment you want. Whether you plan to attend on- campus, full-time, part-time, online or through distance education, you have an important decision to make.
Many students still choose to attend their selected course of study full-time and on-campus. While larger urban centers are often home to a college, university or training facility, it’s not uncommon for students in remote areas to relocate to complete their education or training program. Some students with jobs or family considerations may opt for flexible distance delivery or correspondence courses. Narrow down your choices by researching post-secondary or training institutions that offer your program of interest and the type of delivery that works best for you. Personal circumstances can change throughout your life and despite some of the challenges, there are flexible ways to meet your goals.
For example, when I graduated from high school I was single with no children and was able to attend college full-time and on-campus. Later, when I was employed, married and had children, I took a combination of courses online, through correspondence and on-campus delivery to complete a university degree. While studying at the graduate level, my courses were delivered part-time on weekends. Many of the students joined our classes through videoconferencing from multiple locations, eliminating the need to travel long distances to study.
When researching education and training institutions, look at what support systems are available to you. These can include counselling, special needs, tutoring, and Aboriginal services. If you find yourself relocating to an urban center and cultural considerations are a priority, take the time to contact Aboriginal Services at the institutions you are considering. Find out what is available on and off campus to help you feel at home. These services are provided to support your transition and to help you to be culturally, academically and socially supported so that you are as comfortable and successful as possible.
Do your research, consider all of the options, ask questions, and reach out to those who can help you with your selection, but most importantly — trust your instincts. Go with your gut, go with what feels right to you and be sure that the program, institution and delivery model you choose is the one that will ultimately help you to achieve success and to realize your employment goals.
Laura Dokis has worked as an education administrator, career counsellor, and human resources professional at Anishinabek Educational Institute and Canadore College. She is a citizen of Dokis First Nation.