Trent student Stephen Sayer will be wondering whether to don the gold
trimmed gown and hood of the Sciences or the white trim of the Arts when he
steps forward at convocation June 2. Sayer has earned concurrent degrees in
both disciplines, making history by being the first Trent student to do so.
He completed his two degrees during four years of study, maintaining an A
average along the way.
Twin degrees for Champlain scholar
When Trent student Stephen Sayer heads out into the work world later this
year, prospective employers will never have to question his determination
to get the job done.
Sayer is heading for the finish line in a university program that
will see him take home concurrent degrees in science and the arts at
Trent's convocation this spring.
Sayer came to Trent from his hometown of Scarborough, after
graduating from Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts in North York.
He faced a real challenge in deciding where to go for
post-secondary education. Sheridan College offered the computer animation
program which would let him pursue the career he wanted, while Trent
offered the broad-based education he craved, and "the opportunity to learn
about as many things that interest me as I could."
He was accepted by both schools. And his decision was not made any
easier when Trent weighed in with the offer of its Champlain Scholarship,
the most prestigious offered by the University.
High school guidance counselor Blair Duckworth came to the rescue
when he worked out an arrangement with Sheridan that would let Sayer
complete his diploma in animation over the summer instead of in a normal
full-year program, so he packed his bags for Peterborough.
It was his father who recommended Trent, said Sayer. "He recognized
that the university's small size would benefit me." His majors are in
philosophy, psychology, physics and English.
The toughest part was the scheduling, ensuring he had all the
courses he required in both of his programs. That meant he sometimes had to
overload with courses, as well as staying in school a year longer than many
of his colleagues who arrived at the same time. Still, he has managed to
maintain marks in the high 80s and 90s.
Sayer also finds time for intramural ice hockey, occasional graphic
design work, volunteering an hour a week at the audio library, hanging out
with his five roommates, practicing his cooking skills and chatting with
his girlfriend who is halfway across the province studying physiology and
psychology at Western.
There has not, however, been any time left over to get what Sayer
considers "a real part-time job, since I have been in school year round. My
parents and the scholarship made it possible to attend Trent, and I will be
forever grateful to both."
Has he ever regretted his choice to double up his degrees? "Not
once, not ever. It has been an incredible experience." Some of the physics
courses have been the most challenging, says Sayer. "I am not as
comfortable as some of my classmates with the more advanced technologies."
He rates philosophy 105 as the best course on the curriculum, and
his personal recommendation for others. "It teaches you how to think and go
through life as a reasonable and conscientious person. Everyone should be
required to take it."
He has nothing specific in mind for the job market, but soon after
convocation he will start to work on his portfolio and begin making
contacts in the animation industry.
