First-Year Insights: Fashion Arts and Business Students Reflect on Their Journey
HLOs: 
By: Mikaella Ageday, Fashion Arts and Business student
Starting college is an exciting yet challenging step toward the future, whether students come directly from high school or after a few years in the workforce. Adjusting to a new college lifestyle, especially in the first semester, can take time. Seven weeks into their journey in the Fashion Arts and Business program, first-year students Deven Thompson and Daeja Loon share their experiences transitioning to life at Humber Polytechnic.
Settling In: Reflections on the First Seven Weeks
Adapting to Humber's vibrant campus life has brought both excitement and some initial hurdles. For many newcomers, balancing academics, personal life, and social connections has been a primary focus.
Deven: “My first seven weeks have been super fun, though balancing a full course load, home life, and socializing has been challenging. Overall, it's been a great experience.”
Daeja: “Everyone has been really welcoming. The only challenge has been navigating the campus, as it’s quite large.”
Why Humber? Standing Out Among Fashion Programs
When selecting a program, Humber’s strong industry connections and comprehensive curriculum were standout factors for Deven and Daeja. Both were drawn to Humber's unique combination of fashion and business courses, which align with their career goals.
Deven: “Humber stood out to me for its high employment rate after graduation. The business component of the program was especially appealing, as I’m interested in both fashion and business.”
Daeja: “I chose Humber’s program because it offers classes that genuinely interest me, like apparel and product knowledge and an introduction to buying. These courses align with my career aspirations, making Humber the right choice.”
Adapting to College Life: Differences from High School
The college experience often provides newfound freedom and independence, which can be a refreshing change from high school. Both students noted key differences in the environment at Humber.
Deven: “I have noticed that a lot of people are more inclusive and are easier to talk to at Humber compared to high school - there’s a strong social orientation here.”
Daeja: “I love the outdoor spaces where I can do homework, have coffee, or simply relax. My high school didn’t offer these kinds of spaces, so it’s something I really appreciate.”
Finding Support: Humber’s Community and Faculty
Humber's Fashion Arts and Business program fosters a supportive community with a diverse student body and dedicated faculty, which has been instrumental in helping first-year students settle in.
Deven: “Our program lead, Jennifer, has stood out for her kindness, professionalism, and her dedication to keeping up with industry trends.”
Daeja: “The kindness and friendliness of everyone at Humber, from professors to classmates, has made my experience as a first-year student truly welcoming.”
As they wrap up their first reading week, Deven, Daeja, and their peers are well on their way to making the most of their first semester. Humber’s Fashion Arts and Business program is already leaving a lasting impact, helping students take their first steps with the support of a community dedicated to their growth and success.
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Deven Thompson
Daeja Loon