Returning to the classroom

After some years away from formal education, I started a new journey in May/2024, as a student at Fanshawe College in the Human Resources Management program. Returning to the classroom has been an interesting experience, a journey of rediscovering part of myself that was set aside for a period, now a more mature and engaged version, expanding my perspectives and areas of interest. This journey has also been an opportunity to revisit experiences I left behind in Brazil, reflecting how it shaped my professional growth and how my current perspective of diversity adds value to organizations. Going back to college has given me a new sense of purpose, believing in myself! So, let’s celebrate this milestone and share some insights.

In Brazil, most HR professionals are psychologists who start their careers through co-op programs while completing graduation. Although Organizational Psychology is part of the curriculum, a deep understanding about Labour Relations can significantly benefit these professionals. The course at Fanshawe introduced me to Canadian labour history, particularly the role and existence of unions and managerial strategies. HR professionals must understand these relationships to effectively work with employers and develop a perspective on historical context.

Especially for Law, a course that I truly enjoy and wish to explore more about, or Occupational Health and Safety, both with remarkable professors who introduced me to Canadian legislation and taught me where to find information once it is needed.

Like any new journey, challenges were also part of my learning process. While still developing English language skills, I have no doubt that the accounting course was my Achilles’ heel. (Definitely, it contributed to my growing grey hair!) However, Accounting taught me some valuable lessons, such as when I started to consider the break-even point while analyzing a new business idea, or when I reminded the salespeople of the future value of a dollar. These are the kinds of insights that people who know me might find a little bit unusual, but they’ve shaped my HR perspective. A perspective which focuses on a strategic approach, going beyond transactional activities and to start sharing insights into business discussions.

To conclude, the program gave me the opportunity to meet excellent professionals, professors who have education as a mission. Special thanks to Connie Palmer, my mentor, for her support and kindness! I strongly recommend everyone to have a mentor, especially for recent Canadian citizens like me. Mentorship is an essential step in restarting a career and reinventing ourselves.