Student Testimonial - Matthew

Name: Matthew
Program: ESLM (Exercise Science & Lifestyle Management)
Graduate: 2015

Tell us what you’re doing workwise right now.

I am currently the Senior Manager of Finance & Operations for the Guelph Family Health Team. The Guelph Family Health Team (Guelph FHT) is a large, Ministry Funded, Primary Health Care Organization within the city of Guelph. The Guelph FHT is made up of administrative and clinical staff with just over 100 staff, 28 different clinic locations, 110 family physicians and provides care to roughly 115,000 patients. In my current role I oversee the organization's finances and overall operations. This encompasses working with the Ministry of Health, and our organization's Executive Director and Board of directors to implement effective primary healthcare for the community. In addition to my work with the Guelph FHT, I am also on the Board of Directors. I am also the President Elect for the Ontario Kinesiology Association, am the President and Finance Officer for a small private real estate company, and I am doing my MBA with the De Groote School of Business at McMaster University.

Reflect on your time just prior to Humber. Why did you choose Humber College? What was your career ambition?

I chose Humber College for two main reasons. The first reason was for hands-on skill development. After completing my BSc. at the University of Guelph I wanted more hands-on skill development in exercise science with the goal of becoming an R. Kin. The second reason I chose Humber College was because of the ESLM program's internship. Developing hands-on skill and then having direct industry experience is crucial to gain employment. The internship I took was with the Guelph Family Health Team's Diabetes program and it has taken my career to many interesting places.

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

The program set me on an amazing career path and trajectory. The internship I got was in diabetes management at my current company. It provided me with the hands-on skill and critical thinking I needed to be successful in my clinical role. The ESLM program also set me up for entrepreneurial success and business development.

What advice would you share to someone considering this field?

I believe the health care field is an exciting and challenging field. Developing hands-on skills and critical thinking are essential to success. Passion and the desire to grow with an organization is also something to look for when searching for an employer. Looking at the strategic plans and directions of a company will help you to know if you align well with the company itself.