Meet Jayme, Graduate, Recreation and Leisure Services
“With a diploma in Recreation and Leisure Services, and a certificate in Pre-Health Sciences, I was looking for a program that could combine my two pieces of education. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, and I had plenty of experience in the field of Recreation and Leisure. When I came across Therapeutic Recreation, I realized the program was a perfect way to advance my knowledge and skills as a Recreation professional, while also making an entry into the field of healthcare; all for the benefit of helping others live their best life.
The blended delivery format of the program was the biggest highlight for me. Being a post-graduate student, I still had to work full-time while going to school. To manage all aspects of the life of a full-time student/full-time employee is overwhelming and having the choice to attend classes in person or online was a game changer. If I needed to catch up on personal chores at home, I could do so while attending class. On the days I wasn’t working, I was free to come to campus and spend time with my instructors and classmates. And when I was laid off of my job in the middle of the program and had to move back home with my mom, who lived 4 hours from campus, I could still complete my education. Another highlight for me is the the athletic center it is AMAZING. I still miss it. It was so spacious, and never crowded no matter the time of day.
Placement was great. In Therapeutic Recreation, I was well prepared from day 1 of the program. I knew what to expect and the faculty was so supportive. Being taught by instructors who work in the field helped me have real-life advice and education on what to expect when entering the workforce.
Attending Algonquin College has helped me advance my career in a way that was flexible for me. I still stay in contact with my classmates and faculty, who have now become my colleagues. I built connections, personal and professional, that have added so much value to my life.
If you are considering this program and you have the background in a related field, go for it. The career you have after graduating will be the most fun and rewarding you have ever had.
I am currently a Recreation Programs Manager at Extendicare Canada and I work with a team of Activity Aides to help develop meaningful programs and enhance wellbeing for residents who live in long-term care. From a career perspective I am most proud of entering spaces that I am more qualified to be in because of my education at Algonquin College.
If I could describe my experience at Algonquin College in one word it would be: Dynamic“
– Jayme, Graduate, 2023, Recreation Programs Manager, Extendicare Canada