I've been asked to write a blog about the things that I've learned while studying here at Douglas College. The only person who is against me writing a blog about myself would have to be my younger sister. She recently commented that my ego did not need any more of a boost. I would have to agree.
I never thought I would end up at Douglas College. Going to a Catholic high school and achieving high grades I always figured I would be studying at some well-renowned University. From what I had heard from my peers and some teachers, I figured Douglas was the place people ended up when they couldn't meet entrance requirements for other institutions. I still hear narrow minded remarks when I mention I'm a student at Douglas. The only difference now is that secretly, I'm the one laughing.
Over the last few years I have realized something that has really changed my paradigm. Everything in life is what we make it; be it anything from work, to social interactions, to our education.
Despite some negative stereotypes, I have found my time at Douglas College to be some of the best years I've had so far in my life. My professors have all been friendly, down-to-earth people and many of them teach the same courses at SFU. Unlike at most Universities, it is easy to meet and discuss one-on-one with my professors and receive valuable feedback.
Another thing I found is that it is really easy to meet people at Douglas College. Whether it's in the small classes, near the couches in the atrium or at the gym next door in the community center. This college has some of the friendliest people I have ever met; this includes many of the staff (including my man Richard in the cafeteria who knows exactly what I mean by 'the usual'). I also know that this type of atmosphere is hard to find at most Universities.
I have found that if you work hard at Douglas you can achieve just as much as if you work hard at any other institution. The main difference is that at Douglas College you save a lot of money on courses and time in travelling. There are also so many great opportunities that are unique to this college that go unnoticed by the majority of students.
Just like anything in life, a college is what you make it - so get out there and make it great.
