Fleming College

When Rachel Thompson was in high school, she worked part-time as a grocery store cashier and brainstormed creative ways she could improve business operations and increase employee engagement. Rachel dreamed of having a career where she could make a positive difference at a company and decided to pursue a path in human resources.

“I’ve always wanted to be an employee who makes a difference, who makes changes that make it better, and human resources aligns with those beliefs,” said Rachel. “I love the whole aspect of being involved in a company, making it grow financially and bettering it for employees.”

She enrolled in Fleming College’s Business – Human Resources program after graduating from high school and started her studies in the January intake.

“I liked that the courses in this program are very people-based and focused on personal relationships. As someone who wants to be involved in a company, that really appealed to me,” said Rachel of the two-year Fleming program.

Rachel developed her leadership and communication skills through applied learning activities, assignments and group work at Fleming College. She also gained the practical training she needed to hit the ground running in all aspects of human resources.

“I’m very happy with my Fleming experience. All of the professors are dedicated to providing the best learning experience possible and incorporate their real world, workplace experiences into classroom learning,” explains Rachel. “I felt comfortable at graduation because I knew that I had received an extraordinary amount of experience and valuable knowledge from a team of professors who want to help and see you exceed.”

Shortly after graduating from Fleming College this year, Rachel was hired at Scarboro Garage Doors as an Office Administrator. She is responsible for recruitment, scheduling, invoicing, inventory and placing orders, and implementing Health and Safety, among other duties.

“Coming out of college, it was easy to adapt to a workplace environment because the program ensured we had the practical experience that would allow us to excel. I definitely felt prepared,” said Rachel.

Rachel enjoys working at Scarboro Garage Doors and is excited for her future. “I’m starting out in this field and I want to grow, and my employer is helping me do that. I love the experience I am getting here,” said Rachel.

Her advice to current and prospective students is to put your energy and effort into your Fleming program to succeed in your field after graduating. “And listen to your profs because they want to see you grow,” she said. “At Fleming, you’re not just a number. Your professors want to help you succeed.”