There’s little that can compare the knowledge and skills gained from firsthand experience. Instructions and explanations can help you learn the foundation, but a hands-on learning environment can teach lessons that can’t be learned in a traditional classroom. For Ayalew, a university graduate, this meant pursuing the Electrical Engineering Technology program at Mohawk College. Ayalew saw an opportunity to not only further his education, but to enter a new field and gain the experiential learning that his time in university didn’t provide.
“I chose electrical engineering because I consider myself a problem-solver, and the field is evolving in interesting new ways,” said Ayalew. “The skills that this program develops are also in high demand.”
As a mature student, Ayalew has a strong focus on his goals as a student. Having been around the block before, he’s prepared to buckle down and focus on the learning that matters most to him. “The hands-on experience in my program consists of weekly lab experiments you must do for several of the courses,” he said. “If you are in the co-op stream, you will have a chance to work for a company and implement what you’ve learned on the job.”
Students gain valuable experience through their experiential learning opportunities, though there are other ways students can sharpen their skills and get involved in their college community, such as working with the Mohawk Student Association (MSA). “I decided to get involved with the MSA because I have a passion for advocacy,” said Ayalew. “I have experience in diversity and inclusion work and have had the privilege of working in an education environment with very wonderful people that are passionate about student success.”
Ayalew works with the MSA as a representative for the Stoney Creek Campus for Skilled Trades. His previous experience as a student prepared him well and provides him with a unique perspective for tackling the challenges presented to the MSA. “As an MSA representative, you have an important role to play. You attend meetings to discuss issues affecting students and make important decisions on their behalf,” he said. “As a representative for the Stoney Creek campus, I do my best to push for a better student experience for students on that campus. To be a representative of these students, and Mohawk College students in general, has been a great privilege of mine.”
He’s found value in developing skills by working closely with the Mohawk College community. “It’s important to get involved while in college because you build a network outside the group that you are comfortable with and develop new skills through that involvement,” said Ayalew. “It’s a way to enrich your experience while you are here on campus.”
Ayalew believes everyone should get involved with their college community however they can, whether that’s helping to build the community or simply enjoying what it has to offer. “I highly recommend students get involved in activities in- and out-side their school. For some, college is a time for new exploration, and for others, a time to advance their interests,” he said. “Either way, getting involved will help students build a network and enjoy their time more. Some tips would be joining clubs, attending workshops, or going to school-wide events such as Open House.”
Open House is a great way for potential students to learn more about what life as a Mohawk College student looks like, meet program faculty and staff, and discover everything life as a Mohawk College student has to offer. “It’s a great opportunity to get a feel [for the college], speak to faculty and staff to overcome your apprehension,” said Ayalew.
Ayalew recommends anyone interested in getting involved with their college community to take the plunge. “I definitely think it is a great opportunity if you have a passion for student advocacy! It is a chance to provide your insight on behalf of all students and use the opportunity to make positive changes.”
