David Rost
Human Resource Management Certificate
"For me, Continuing Education has been a bridge to the business world," says David Rost, a recent graduate of the Human Resource Management Certificate program.
"I decided I wanted to make a career transition," explains David. "So, I started taking courses with Continuing Education, and in my first class I met people who encouraged me and made me realize I had something to bring to the table."
David had graduated from university a few years earlier with a degree in physical education and coaching. After university, he went on to complete an Occupational Health and Safety Certificate, and a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) designation.
When he began taking classes, David was working, but wanted to transition into a field where he was more involved with people. After two years of evening courses working toward the Certificate in Human Resource Management, David moved into an HR position at the Calgary Catholic School System.
Once he was working in the field, David could see he'd taken the right steps. "It's all been useful learning. Certainly the technical pieces have proved valuable, but it was the case studies and scenarios that really taught great lessons. I believe I'm a better HR guy because of the learning I acquired in this program. It gives you a better appreciation for the machine of human resources and makes you better at your job."
David typically took two courses a year, but took breaks along the way for personal reasons, including taking time off for the births of his four children. He tried online learning, but still preferred the traditional classroom. "I especially like intensive courses, they're my favourite."
David has maintained relationships with people he met in his classes. "Because of my courses, I have met people who can help me, and others who I am able to help."
David has also gone on to complete his CHRP (Canadian Human Resource Professional) designation, and hopes to enrol in an MBA program someday.
"Absolutely, I would recommend the program," says David. "And I think it's important for people to realize that you don't have to have been a top student in the past to take these courses. In Continuing Education, the instructors are always willing to help and will always help you find ways to make things work."