DURHAM COLLEGE
DC's General Arts and Science program works to develop a sense of community from day one

Durham College's General Arts and Science program (GAS) in the Faculty of Liberal Studies (LS) may be a pathway to other places, but the program team wants to ensure that students enjoy every aspect of their time at Durham College (DC). Designed for students still figuring out their career path and interests or those preparing for future college or university programs, this one-year certificate program is focused on setting students up for success in their academic journey. Now the GAS team's efforts to deepen the student experience, with a more interactive orientation and regular meetups, have resulted in double-digit increases to retention and graduation rates, and a closer-knit community.

For the faculty and staff, step one was to start on day one orientation. Last year, the team re-formatted their event to focus on the fresh adventure to come, with a focus on building connections between students, faculty and staff through activities focused on goal setting and collaboration.

"We wanted to get away from piling on information," said General Arts and Science program coordinator Nathan Wilson. "Talking as a team, a lot of us remember from our own orientations the fun, the cohort and the collegiality, a confirmation that you made the right decision." In practical terms, the team created two orientation segments, a breakout session on creative thinking and brainstorming, and an activity where students worked together to create an infographic on the topic of "why choose General Arts and Science."

To keep the connection going, the team also created a new weekly event called MEET 1000, where students could drop in for lunch and learn sessions and social time. From information sessions about pathways available through Durham College, Ontario Tech and Trent University, to guest lectures on student-centred topics such as wellness or motivation, the hour has become a gathering point and the response has been tremendous, with weekly attendance ranging from 50 to 100 students depending on the topic.

Recent feedback from one student said: "MEET 1000 was a great addition to the program as a lot of people were afraid to ask questions. It provided an opportunity to learn things you wouldn't have thought to ask."

Sometimes the MEET 1000 sessions feature pizza or giveaways, and always a presence from faculty and student advisors, as a way to raise the profile of student supports.

"I think it's really helped cultivate a level of trust and rapport with students," said Wilson. The team also circles back between events via the DC Connect program page with information and discussion forums for follow-up questions.

GAS has also increased efforts to stay in touch with alumni, inviting graduates back as ambassadors to participate in Q&A sessions with current students and contribute to Program Advisory Committees. Three GAS graduates were recipients of DCAA Leaders of the Future awards this year.

"Even though they are only with us for two semesters, we want them to actually feel like a part of the General Arts and Science community, and to see this as a valuable step along their path," said Associate Dean Claire McCormack. "We're helping them build a solid foundation, and academic self-confidence for future programs."

Already, enrolment numbers show that these activities are making a difference with both an increase in enrollment and improved student academic performance. It's a success that McCormack credits to her entire team.

"It's a faculty team who I think really understands the goals of the GAS program," she said. "Our faculty and staff team care deeply about supporting student success."

Interested in joining the General Arts and Science program in the Faculty of Liberal Studies? Learn more about the program options here