When Amanda Valerio enrolled in Mohawk College’s Recreation Therapy program at age 30, university wasn’t on her radar.
“I went back to school as a mature student. I didn't want to regret not going back to school,” she says. At first, she worried about whether she would feel a sense of belonging. Those concerns quickly faded thanks to the supportive faculty and welcoming environment.
What she didn’t anticipate was that her decision would lead to a rewarding career and a university degree with a clear path toward becoming a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).
Hands-on learning at the core
Mohawk College launched its Recreation Therapy Diploma in 2012, evolving the former Recreation & Leisure program to meet the growing demand for specialized training. From the beginning, the college worked closely with partners like Brock University and the University of Waterloo to ensure the curriculum aligned with degree-level studies, creating meaningful transfer opportunities for students.
Faculty members Joanne Brohman and Tracy Hopkins helped shape the program, bringing extensive field experience and a strong focus on practical learning.
“Every class reminds me why this field matters—it’s about connection, meaning and quality of life through leisure,” says Joanne.
Tracey adds, “It’s so rewarding to watch students excel during their RT placements and see graduates secure part-time and full-time positions in the field.”
Through comprehensive field placements and a curriculum aligned with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario Standards of Practice, students gain expertise in assessment, program planning, therapeutic interventions and person-centred care.
Discovering the pathway from Mohawk College to Brock University
For Amanda, the turning point came during her final semester in the Professional Practice course, where faculty introduced university transfer options and invited advisors from partner institutions.
“[A representative] from Brock came in and talked about the benefits of continuing your education and the transfer credits you could receive,” Amanda recalls. “I never thought I would go to university, never mind college. It’s incredible that I’ve made it this far.”
Learning about transfer credits changed everything. Amanda realized she could enter Brock’s Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation program with nearly two years of coursework already recognized.
“It could not be more perfect—a seamless transition from one institution to the other,” she says.
The alignment between programs meant Amanda entered upper-year studies with confidence. She had already mastered academic writing and referencing for university-level assignments and gained more hands-on experience than many of her classmates. “I already knew what the field looked like because I had over 500 hours of experience from Mohawk,” she says.
Real world experience that leads to careers
Today, Amanda works as a recreation therapist at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, supporting seniors living with dementia.
“I’m providing recreation programming to help minimize responsive behaviours,” she explains. “I really do think my placements at Mohawk were why I got the job; it was a perfect transition.”
While working part-time, Amanda is completing her degree at Brock and preparing for her full-time clinical internship next year. When she graduates in 2026, she plans to write the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification exam and earn her CTRS designation.
“I want a full-time job. I hope that with my degree, my experience and my internship, I’ll be ready,” she says.
Opening doors with pathways from diplomas to degrees
Mohawk College currently has Recreation Therapy pathway agreements with Brock University, University of Waterloo and Seneca Polytechnic, giving graduates opportunities to deepen their knowledge in research, leadership and advanced therapeutic practice. These degree pathways also strengthen eligibility for professional certifications and leadership roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, long-term care and community programs.
Amanda strongly recommends these options to others. “I absolutely think it’s valuable. I love my job, and I believe in the field,” she says.
For Amanda, the pathway from Mohawk College to Brock University built on her academic credentials and reshaped her sense of what’s possible.
“I’ve surpassed any expectations I ever set for myself,” she says. “It’s been a great ride, and I’m excited to see where it goes.”
