Trent Durham Celebrates First Cohort of Child and Youth Studies Graduates
The inaugural graduates of the B.A. Child and Youth Studies (CHYS) program at Trent University Durham GTA are ready to protect children and their rights. Prepared to take on many professions including teaching, social work and law, they are destined and determined to make things better for kids.
Using their voices
“The first cohort of graduating students is a passionate, highly motivated, and forward-thinking group of individuals,” states Dr. Alba Agostino, assistant professor of CHYS, who was instrumental to the development of the program offered exclusively at Trent Durham.
The four-year program focuses on how children learn through play and creativity, covering topics relating to child and youth education, rights and advocacy issues. Alongside experienced faculty, students examine real-life issues, study theoretical models and think critically about innovative solutions and services.
“The main lesson from this program is that as child and youth workers, we help youth advocate for themselves by providing the proper tools they need to succeed,” reflects graduate Sabrina Moreino. “We are giving them a platform and the opportunity to use their voices.”
Experts and experiences
Throughout the first years of the program, students applied their learning across stand-out projects such as writing and distributing children’s books throughout the community within the Children’s Knowledge of Death, Dying, and Bereavement course. Independent Research Studies called on students to write major papers on topics ranging from child welfare to Indigenous justice. A CHYS student also submitted the winning entry to Trent’s Three Minute Paper competition this year.
In the program, students also gained career-boosting experience through placements with organizations including schools, health centres, group homes and youth programs. A variety of dynamic guest speakers also provided first-hand knowledge and networking opportunities for students.
Kristen Fernandes aspires to become a teacher after graduation. Regarding her work in a local grade two class, she revealed, “The placement course was amazing and confirmed my desire to teach.”
A number of guaranteed spaces are reserved for CHYS graduates in Trent’s Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program.
From start to finish
Now ready for graduation, excitement and pride take centre stage.
“This program prepared me for the future,” said Ms. Moreino who is honoured to be among the first to graduate.
It is an exciting accomplishment!” states Ms. Fernandes. “I am excited to see what my future holds.”
“It was amazing,” reflects Holly Grassl who feels the program enabled her to make positive contributions to the field. “I was a part of a team of students and professors, who worked together to make a great learning experience.”
For Professor Agostino, who is always eager to welcome the newest class of students, this first group of graduates will always be particularly special.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the students for sharing their opinions and ideas. With their thoughtful input, a dynamic, innovative program evolved.” she says. “ I will always be proud of this inaugural cohort.”
Posted on April 27, 2020