SMF Student Experiences

Taryn
I considered dropping out after first year, but my interest in SMF kept me going. Through SMF, I have turned that interest into a passion, and I am now completing my 5th year with a thesis; something I never could have imagined. Soon I will be graduating with an SMF major and Human Services Practicum Specialization, International Studies minor, and a Global Experience Certificate. The most important part of SMF for me has been the community of support it fosters, from fellow students, to professors, and staff. I have never met a more understanding group of people who continuously learn and grow from one another. Now, as I look to the future, I don't know what it will hold, but I know there will always be a whole community of people at my back.

Karla

I started university with the plan to joint major in psychology and SMF. After having my son in second year, and reducing to a four class semester I still have been able to complete my dream. The connections with the professor who knew who I was made the classes really relatable because discussions focused on current issues of the students. Some of my favorite memories were watching my professors Toni and Carm perform mini communication and counseling experiences in front of the class. Another favorite memory is the real life advice and experiences Denise and BJ gave from their personal experiences that would explain practical ways of handling conflict, circumstances, relationships, and parenting. I look forward to graduating despite overcoming adversity. The degree won't be the asset, so much as the knowledge I have gained.

Alyssa

Joint Psychology (co-op) and SMF (counselling specialization). My favourite thing about SMF is the community and the amazing professors who genuinely care, want you to succeed, and push you to explore yourself and your capabilities.

Jillian

My favourite experience of being an SMFer has been creating/co-creating projects that have a real-life impact on people. I helped create an information board and educational game about Islamiphobia and racism that was displayed at the 2016 Anti-Oppressive Practices Symposium. I got to experience in real time people being impacted by what myself and my group were discussing with them.It was a fulfilling experience for me knowing that I had opened even just one set of eyes to a new perspective. As someone passionate about the education of children and adolescents, my goal after graduation is to pursue a career in sexual health and sexuality education (and probably research, too).

Alley

I can’t quite choose one favourite memory I have from SMF, as all the moments within SMF broke down and built up aspects of myself, creating who I am now. My favourite would be the compilation of memories from my entire capstone course. It included working with beautifully intelligent people, drawing in family and friends by discussing the topics we researched and presented for class, and Toni, an incredibly mindful and supportive professor. I will have hundreds of memories from SMF that I hold closely for the rest of my life.

Jenny

Finding SMF is the reason I am graduating and didn't drop out after my second year. The courses engaged me like no other courses I have ever taken. With every SMF course, you learn something new about yourself. Every single professor challenges you, while also being helpful and genuinely wanting you to succeed.

Kass

5 years in smf! Practicum, joint honours, and counselling specialization. Found out about smf by accident in 204 and stuck with it. Dont know where I am going but I do know I will take smf with me no matter the field.

Favourite Quote:"Trust the process"

Memory: Selfie stick photoshoot with my practicum cohort?

Amy

My favourite memory: Can’t quite pin point one memory but I would have to say all the hilarious jokes with the professors will always be memorable.
My name is Amy Virtue, I will be graduating Winter 2017. I am so thankful that I found SMF! I have enjoyed all my classes, and I’ve learned so much. Things that I don’t think I could have in any other program. Being apart of the SMF community is one that I am proud to be apart of.
My hopes for my future, is to eventually get my PhD- long down the road. In the near future I plan to get a job in the helping field and volunteer at different organizations that I am passionate about.

Roma

There were a few really memorable times for me in my SMF career. The most memorable was the first SMF course I ever took which was with Carm De Santis. She opened my mind to a major I hadn’t ever heard of. It wasn’t until then that I decided to change my major from PSYCH to SMF. This switch changed my life in several ways and continues to change my life. In the future I hope to become a counsellor or therapist. I’m looking forward to changing lives on a daily basis where ever I go.

Kerstin

SMF has helped shape me and become who I am today. Through my time in SMF I have learned so much about not only myself as a person, but also about the world around me. SMF is applicable to everyday life and that’s what I love so much about it. Through SMF I have been able to pursue my passion for sexual health education through classes like Intro to Human Sexuality, Sex Therapy, and Practicum. The students and professors in SMF are truly one of a kind, making every class a comfortable and welcoming environment. Switching into SMF after not enjoying the other program I was in was one of the best choices of my life and I am so thankful for it every day.