A large part of my time at both schools, Belleville and Picton, is dedicated to conducting registration intake sessions for new students and supporting previously registered students as they journey through their educational pathway at Loyola. I congratulate them on making the decision to further their education and ensure the programming allows students to actively participate in developing personalized education plans which reflect their life experiences, learning styles, and goals. I believe in the possibility of the futures my students may not yet realize themselves.
Above, is a photograph of a candy dish that sits on my desk, in easy reach to any visitor in my office. The dish itself was a gift from the ED of Canadian Mental Health in thanks for some work we completed together regarding a common student/client. I decided to pass this on by keeping it filled with candies. Students often drop by just for a candy which might or might not lead to a chat. I have been told the candy must remain Werther's Originals because they symbolize "safety". I do not disagree. However, I feel it goes much deeper. I believe, that after students spend time with me, I my optimism regarding their futures becomes contagious. They may think they are coming to me to find a "sweet treat in a candy dish", however, they are getting so much more.