Grad talks about the benefits of learning close to home
April 10, 2023
Studying close to home can offer a range of benefits: reduced travel time and expense, familiarity with the area, connection to the local community, and more.
For Samantha Stratton, a graduate of Georgian’s Graphic Design advanced diploma program and Barrie resident, learning nearby helped her make local contacts and made it easier to find work locally during school and after graduation. She currently works for a local company and as a freelancer creating and selling digital and custom illustrations.
Learning locally helped me build relationships that made me a successful artist so quickly after graduation. The Georgian program was top-notch and on par with what employers are looking for. And because Georgian has diverse course selections and aligns its curriculum with what’s needed in the marketplace, the skillset I had was in high demand.
She had multiple offers from different Ontario colleges away from home, but chose to study at Georgian, and says her positive experience only confirmed she made the right choice.
The program offers lots of hands-on learning opportunities and chances to network with industry leaders. The professors are experts in their field, and beyond that are also dedicated, caring and compassionate.
Studying close to home kept her connected with family and saved her money in the long run, since she didn’t have to pay to stay in residence. She also says that learning in Barrie allowed her to hold down a full-time job while attending school without having to look for new employment.
I had a full-time job while attending college, and it was easier to retain employment rather than look for a new job to help pay for my education.
See more of her work:
- Instagram: @sams.artvision
- Website: samanthastratton.ca
Samantha isn’t the only Georgian grad who benefited from learning close to home, read stories from other grads who chose to learn close to home: