Applying their knowledge and problem-solving techniques, student groups must develop a strategic business plan to address industry issues. The most successful groups are provided the exciting (and yet scary) opportunity to present their findings to the industry professionals.

On Thursday, April 25, the three winning groups of 4th-semester students presented (2 groups to Choice Hotels Canada, 1 group to Toronto Airport Marriott Hotel - photo above) to rave reviews from the industry partners! With positive and professional demeanors and with confident presentation styles, students had the opportunity to showcase their findings. Our industry partners were impressed and in awe. Recommendations and suggestions were clearly welcomed and are considered for implementation. Well done Teams! We look forward to their continued growth and success from Humber and beyond.

Thanks to Wendy Burgess for her dedication to our industry partners and especially to our H-HROM students. Long hours were devoted both in and out of the classroom (industry meetings and calls, student coaching and advising sessions, encouraging pep talks) and her dedication shone when we saw the smiles on the students' faces as well as the strong nods from the industry professionals.

As well, thank you to the many HRT team members who supported the students throughout this course and semester. To Janet and Stephanie, thank you for attending the presentations to provide moral support and to meet with the industry partners.

Through an interdisciplinary approach between the Business School and School of Health Sciences, Dr. Suzy Casimiro and her students were invited to visit, investigate and advance the physical and psychological health and safety (PH&S) at Humber Valley Terrace Long Term Care Home, Etobicoke.

Under the supervision of the Executive Director at Humber Valley Terrace, Marjorie Mossman, students identified the physical hazards and explored possible psychosocial hazards of workers within this healthcare setting. By also adopting sections of the new and – the first of its kind in the world, Canadian Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace (CSA-Z1003-13), students explored the many ways that jobs can affect health and safety, from potential exposures to physical hazards, to work-related mental health concerns within healthcare settings.

As a result, students were able to make recommendations on how to improve the policies, procedures and offer health & wellness program options. Overall, recommendations focused on improving the physical and organizational environment to lessen risks of injury and illness; from integrated protection from work-related safety and health hazards to the promotion of injury and illness prevention and the introduction of wellness programs- all to advance both workers’ well-being and the organization.

Over 80 students from over 15 colleges and universities around Ontario participated in the event, including students from The Business School. 

The Humber team, formed through an application process led by the Office of Sustainability, consisted of four students representing different programs and faculties in Humber: Gayathri Menon, Fashion Management and Promotions GC, Arman Amin and Samantha Canon, Bachelors in Industrial Design, Ayushi Delvadia ,Bachelors of International Business.

The day-long event saw team work at its best as team Humber worked very hard on its idea and presentation. Collaborating with students from different fields helped participants gain an insight into what the issues faced by other industries are and forced students to think outside the box.

Despite the fact that the Humber team did not win first place, the team's idea inspired the Office of Sustainability to install an art piece made out of paper cups to spread awareness on the importance of carrying personal reusable mugs. The outcome was highly rewarding as students learned how an idea can transform and make a difference in the world today.

Sagar had the opportunity to participate in a study abroad program at Hungkuang University in Taichung, Taiwan, which he describes as the best two weeks of his life: 

"In summer 2018, I had the opportunity to participate in a study-abroad program at Hungkuang University in Taichung, Taiwan. It was a two-week program, and arguably, they were the best two weeks of my life. No exaggeration.

The program was a complete package in itself. Going there, I didn't have really high expectations, but I soon discovered many of the best things that come in life are unexpected. The Taiwanese students went out of their way to help us. The program itself was very well organized. We had Chinese language classes every morning accompanied by different vocational workshops and field trips to the most exotic places in Taiwan.

Apart from all this, the program taught me something that I wouldn't have learned otherwise. I learned more about myself and my skills and abilities. I also learned some things about me that I was unaware of like my adaptability to ambiguous situations—something I could not learn in the classroom. Through making new friends from a variety of countries, I now understand the value of making lasting connections as a way to expand my personal network. The memories I made will last a lifetime. I even found a home in Taiwan—a loving mother that calls me her son. I am still in touch with her and all my new friends. I've promised them that I'll visit Taiwan again soon.

Out of all the advice that I can give to other students, I would just say: Close your eyes to any excuses. Pack your bags and just go! I would like to thank Humber’s Business School for selecting me to participate in this program. I feel honoured and grateful for the opportunity and the experience I had."

As a diversified global retailer, HBC’s internship programs have been designed to provide students with direct work experience in their fields. In addition, their career training programs are comprehensive and of great interest to new grads.

The event was hosted over two days, March 1st and 4th for third and fourth-year Fashion Management students. Both events were well attended and gave students the chance to connect with HBC representatives and learn about possible career and job opportunities within the company.