Where are they now?

Name: Adriana Medina

 

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Course/Programs taken at Continuing Studies?

Not-for-Profit Management Post-Degree Diploma Program

What are your three key strengths? (e.g., communication, creativity, organizational skills)

1. Interpersonal skills
2. Detail oriented
3. Passionate advocate

Reason for taking course/program?

Prior to taking this program, I studied Corporate Communication and Public Relations where we touched on the three sectors of government, for-profit and non-for-profit. My goal in taking this program was to specialize in the non-for-profit sector, and then work in the field of marketing and communications for a non-profit organization to promote their social cause as a means of strengthening our communities.

What three adjectives would you use to describe the course/program?
1. Educational   
2. Practical
3. Well-rounded

What stands out about what you have learned?

Learning the ins and outs of the strategic planning process, understanding an organization’s financial statements, having comprehensive knowledge of the Board and governance structure and on how to develop effective fundraising initiatives are just some of the many invaluable tools and skills I took away from this program.

How are you using what you have learned, and what difference is it making in your professional and personal life?

After finishing the class portion of this program I feel confident in starting my internship position at the YMCA, where I will continue to learn and build on my experiences to further prepare me for when I enter the work force after graduation.

 

How would you describe your experience at Continuing Studies? (classmates, instructors, staff and learning environment)

My overall experience at Continuing Studies was positive and rewarding. This program allowed me to meet and learn from many working professionals in the non-profit industry, including the instructors and staff, through class lectures, guest speakers, infield projects, networking sessions, events and volunteering opportunities at conferences. In addition, I created strong relationships with classmates who are bright, generous and inspirational individuals, all with varying areas of interests within the sector but nonetheless with a common goal for social change.

How was the experience of going back to school as an adult learner?

Ever since I graduated from my undergraduate program at the University of Western Ontario a few years ago, I had continued my education and so my experience being back at school was a smooth transition.  Even if this wasn’t the case for me though, I can still see myself feeling just as comfortable entering this particular educational environment as there were quite a number of adult learners in the program (full-time and part-time), whom we all bonded with and who were really another asset to the courses by them bringing their related work experiences to the table.

Compared to other courses you may have taken elsewhere (other schools, in-house training), what makes Continuing Studies different?

Similar to main campus programs at Western, Continuing Studies programs maintain a high caliber in the curriculum for their courses; however my learning differed in that I had more hands on experiences in this program. Most of the courses also required us to get in touch with non-profits within the community to either: observe, work along side or base our assignments on their organization. This was a great opportunity to network with people in your field of interests, which other programs I’ve taken did not offer.