Student Testimonial - Nandita

Your Name: Nandita
Program: Early Childhood Education
What year did you graduate: 2024

Why did you choose Humber College? and/or this program?

I chose this program because it resonates deeply with my lifelong passion for working with children and fulfilling my dream of becoming a teacher. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the joy of nurturing young minds. From imaginative games of "teacher-teacher" with my stuffed toys to volunteering in kindergarten classrooms and toddler programs, my journey has been fueled by a genuine love for children and a fascination with their development. Throughout high school, teachers recognized my potential in Early Childhood Education (ECE), and I eagerly embraced opportunities to engage with kids through volunteering in various capacities like sports, after-school programs, and camps. Despite initially veering towards nursing after high school, I soon realized that my heart truly belongs in ECE. This realization led me to make the bold decision to switch paths and pursue my passion wholeheartedly. In 2022, I took the leap and enrolled in Humber College's Early Childhood Education program. Humber's reputation for excellence and its commitment to nurturing future educators stood out to me as the perfect fit for my aspirations.

How did the faculty help you on your road to reaching your goals?

The faculty at Humber was incredibly supportive and always there for me. Initially, I worried about being known and getting the support I needed. However, engaging with my professors helped me build strong relationships and a sense of trust. As someone with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), I often seek reassurance, but my faculty handled it with firmness, only answering necessary questions and reminding me of my capabilities. They offered unwavering support during tough times, accommodating my needs and providing guidance across various subjects. Their mentorship empowered me to navigate challenges, refine my skills, and broaden my perspective. Importantly, they taught me about professional boundaries regarding frequent messaging, while also offering flexible teaching approaches. Thanks to my faculty, I've become independent, brave, confident, and strong.

What was your experience like at Humber College? Within your program? The faculty? The labs? Student life?

My experience at Humber, was amazing and I am so happy and lucky to be in a school like Humber. That is because I was always well supported, and everyone I have worked with at Humber has helped shape me as a better individual and helped me grow. They have helped me increase my confidence and made me a better individual.

Did you have a Work-Integrated Learning experience? (otherwise known as a field placement, an internship, a practicum). What was your biggest take-away from that?

Yes, I participated in Work-Integrated Learning experiences as part of my program, including two full-day kindergarten placements and one toddler placement. My most significant takeaway was the importance of perseverance and maintaining personal authenticity despite challenges. I learned not to allow disabilities to limit my potential and to continuously strive for excellence. I gained valuable insights into the significance of advocating for oneself and persevering through adversity. I also discovered the diverse developmental trajectories of children and the necessity of tailoring activities to meet individual needs effectively.

How did the program set you on your path to where you are now?

The Early Childhood Education program provided a solid foundation for my career by enhancing my understanding of child development, teaching strategies, and the importance of building strong relationships with children and families. It set me on my current path in the following ways:

• Secured a camp specialist position with the city of Brampton, thanks to my managers' belief in me and the opportunity they provided.
• Advanced within the city of Brampton, excelling as a preschool instructor and after-school program leader.
• Expanded my experience through roles in community outreach and emergency supply within a school board, aligning with my career goals.
• Developed essential knowledge and skills, including child development theories and behavior management techniques, essential for working with young children.
• Gained practical experience through practicum placements, refining teaching skills and building confidence in working with diverse children and families.

Think back to first semester, what advice would you give to your first-semester self?

The advice I would offer is to never allow a disability to define my capabilities. Emphasizing the importance of time management, I'd suggest keeping a calendar handy to stay organized with tests and deadlines, utilizing color coding for efficiency. To overcome any initial hesitations, ask questions, as professors are there to support and guide students through their journey. Managing workload is key; breaking assignments into smaller tasks and prioritizing them helps prevent feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, I'd stress the significance of self-care, celebrating small victories, and understanding that failures and mistakes are part of the learning process.

Do you have any suggestions for someone considering this field?

Build strong relationships and connections within a community. Network and volunteer with children to see what it is really like in the field. Also, be patient and kind.