Student Testimonial - Denis M

Name: Denis M
Program: Emergency Telecommunications
Graduate: 2023

Why did you choose Humber College?

I chose Humber College because of their reputation in inclusivity and their continuous efforts on adaptability to the needs of today’s society.

What are your career aspirations?

At this early stage in my career my goals are towards delivering safer and faster emergency solutions to those in need of emergency assistance, while effectively providing efficiencies to all emergency personnel involved, including agencies. The rollout of NG9-1-1 (Next Generation 9-1-1) has guaranteed exciting developments in Emergency Telecommunications and, I for one aspire to be part of a team that thrives in driving Emergency Telecommunication forward and beyond.

How have the faculty helped you on your road to reaching your goals?

Professions such as these can require certain attributes that one may not necessarily master by answering questions off a textbook. I consider myself very fortunate to be taught by a faculty composed of experienced professionals in Emergency Telecommunications and Emergency Services. Their ‘on-the-job’ knowledge was instrumental in the development of characteristics that could have been otherwise easily overlooked by traditional teachings. In addition, the faculty would actively share job prospects, upcoming events, and additional learning opportunities that could only benefit us in our future careers. I feel confident in my future career knowing the faculty is invested in my success. Staying true to communications, to this day I am still in touch with a few professors. We email and, in some instances, have even met up for coffee. In my opinion, these are valuable peer relationships I intend to keep well-into my career. This faculty makes that possible.

What would you say was the single best learning experience in the program you are in?

For me, one of the best learning experiences in the program was the devotion and perseverance I witnessed from the Faculty of Health Science & Wellness, as a whole. Their dedication to program improvements is outstanding. By encouraging their students to share their academic experiences and in turn follow up with meaningful action, is something I will forever consider and implement wherever possible. This experience has confirmed that investing in my education, no matter the stage of life I am in, is and will always be worth it.

What elements of the programs are best preparing you for your career?

There are many elements in Emergency Services and this program guarantees you know that. I came into this program thinking I would be learning and sharpening ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ skills; like typing speed, radio technology or intra/interpersonal and intra/interprofessional communication skills. I was pleasantly surprised how much of this program focuses on health, especially mental health. Yes, attending Lab will prepare you for your career in this field but learning ways to maintain a healthy and balanced mental, physical, and emotional state will ensure you stay best prepared to sustain what I think is an admirable and life saving career.

Would you recommend this program to others and why?

I would recommend this program to anyone and everyone. Although the program emphasizes Emergency communications, there are valuable and transferable lessons in this program that could take you far in any career. Effective communication, in my opinion, doesn’t get the respect it truly deserves. Being able to effectively communicate with others in various circumstances is instrumental for not only a successful and viable career but also for a healthy quality of life. This program provides you with skills you’d need to communicate effectively in high-stress environments and situations, as well as educate you on proper reporting and superior communication delivery techniques. This program provided me with many tools I can use anywhere, every day.