Georgian College

After Ellie Hutton completed her Bachelor of Arts, she wanted to continue her education and gain practical experience. She decided to take the Research Analyst graduate certificate program at Georgian College. "I went and met with Robert Wong, who was the Program Co-ordinator at the time and really liked everything he said, and it worked out perfectly." The decision paid off. Hutton is now Vice President at Vision Critical, a software and marketing research firm where she is a thought leader involved in business development and team management. She also manages client accounts across North America. "I wouldn't be where I am today without Georgian College. The Research Analyst program had a direct impact on my career path." She said the hands-on experience she received at Georgian gave her more skills than a degree alone. "I had practical experience from both the classroom projects and the research internship that gave me an edge when I entered the workforce." When Hutton finished her graduate certificate, she moved across the country to Vancouver. She used the skills learned at Georgian College to make professional contacts and land her first job. "I'm so happy I decided to go to Georgian College and take the Research Analyst program. It has opened so many doors for me." Graduate certificate programs help to develop marketable, specialized skills that lead to exciting careers. Graduate studies at Georgian can fast-track learners into the workplace in nine to 12 months. Most programs provide career internships or other work experience components, which give grads important applied experience for their resumés. Some offer both January and September starts. Admission requirements are usually a college diploma, university degree, professional work experience or a combination of the three. Georgian College graduate certificate programs • Addictions: Treatment and Prevention • Advanced Care Paramedic • Advanced Water and Wastewater Treatment • Communicative Disorders Assistant • Computer and Network Systems Security • Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management • Event Management • Fundraising and Resource Development • Goldsmithing and Silversmithing • Human Resource Management • International Business Management • Kitchen and Bath Design • Occupational Health and Safety Management • Research Analyst • Sustainable Systems • Therapeutic Recreation For program details, visit www.georgiancollege.ca/academics/ programs. Use your past to carry you forward Ellie Hutton, Research Analyst Program '98 By Laura Finney Hands-on experience helps corporate climb GeorgianView 2012/13 | 7

• Cover