Student Testimonial - Aria

Name: Aria
Program: Funeral Director Class 1 (Embalming)
What semester are you in: Semester 2

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

I chose Humber College because of the program I wanted to enroll in. Humber College is one of the only two post-secondary schools that have the Funeral Directing program in Ontario. Throughout my last few years in high school, I had realized that this field really interested me and after completing the requirements to enroll, my decision and my dream were even more definite.

Did you attend an Open House at Humber College or an Information Session? How was it helpful?

I attended a tour in August. I knew a lot about the program already, so I was happy to get to see more of the college itself. The pictures that you see online do not do it justice. I remember walking in and just thinking wow, this was going to be where I would fulfill my wish to become a funeral director. The tour helped me understand a little bit of where everything was, and I really appreciated the guide we had. She explained where everything was and what things were available to students.

What has your experience been like so far at Humber College? Within your program? The faculty? The labs? Student life?

My experience at Humber College has been amazing. I live in residence, and I have made so many friends from my time here and the constant buzz in the school is so captivating. There is always some activity going on and there are so many food options throughout the college. Everywhere you go there is something cool to see, especially on the health sciences floor. My program is amazing and tight knit. I know almost everyone, and I have made so many connections with fellow students and professors that will last a lifetime. The faculty is so friendly, and they honestly feel like family, knowing I have support and people cheering me on is always so motivating. The labs are one of my favourite parts of my program. The state-of-the-art embalming labs provide a wonderful learning space, as well as the selection room and simulated apartment which help so much with making and learning about real-life scenarios that we will encounter in our internships and beyond. The student life is awesome as well. We have a wonderful group of people that work hard to prepare events and activities that all students can enjoy.

What is your favorite memory so far in the program? or favourite class?

My favourite memory in the program was our visit to Mackinnon & Bowes. This is one of the most well-known funeral homes across Canada. Each year they plan a fun and informative day with a variety of presentations from key people in our industry. You will learn how a police procession is conducted, what happens when shipping bodies to and from Canada, how to take first calls, and even learn how to be a pallbearer.

Have you had a Work-Integrated Learning experience yet? (otherwise known as a field placement, an internship, a practicum). What was your biggest take-away from that? Or, What are you looking forward to?

I will be starting an internship at the end of April which is also right after I will finish my in-person classes. The entire process to obtain my internship was so interesting and being able to have experience with interviews and talking to professionals helped immensely. We had a career fair during semester one specifically for our program and everyone was able to meet so many awesome funeral homes and directors. We are also able to choose which area in Ontario we would like to complete our 1-year long internship as our continued learning is online. One of the best things about the internship is the fact that it is a paid full-time job. I look forward to learning all the practical skills and abilities needed for my field of work, as well as the multiple connections I will be able to make along the way.

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

Some advice I’d give to my first semester self is to first off, go to an open house if you can. I went on a tour which did not include anything about the Funeral Director program, but just showed me around the school. An open house would allow you to see much more of the program itself and what it entails. Secondly, get involved in activities on campus. This will help you get used to campus life, as well as the energy surrounding you. It can be a lot going on campus for the first few times, but getting yourself involved will make a world of a difference with comfortability. Lastly, getting to know your classmates quickly can be incredibly helpful, especially when you’re needing notes or help with studying. These will be people who you will have connections with for years to come and be able to share memories with. Having friends while in school is so important.