A Full Circle Moment: WIC Alums Return to Campus to Inspire and Shape Future Careers

During the event, our graduates shared their personal career journeys, offering students the unique opportunity to hear firsthand from those who were once in their shoes. This provided valuable insights and inspiration to students as they begin to chart their own paths and explore the many possibilities ahead.

It was a day filled with meaningful conversations, mentorship, and connections that highlighted the strength and impact of our community. For these alums, it was a full-circle moment—giving back to the school that helped shape their journeys while inspiring today’s students to reach for their own professional dreams.

Secondary 5 students were given the opportunity to circulate around the gymnasium and pose questions to alums, who offered insights into their high school experience, transition to post-secondary choices, and current work life.

Olivia Ripa ‘05, a Physiotherapist with Kinatex Sports Physio, shared valuable information about her field and her passion for helping people who are undergoing cancer treatments stay active and return to their favourite activities. “It was wonderful getting to talk to the students and giving advice on where you can go. I found it great to let them know about what it is to be a Physiotherapist, because at their age, I didn’t know. It was so much fun!”

Gino Lalli ‘94, a Project Manager with the Town of Rigaud, discussed how it is not always a linear path from education to your career. After studying Electrical Engineering in university, Gino has worked in several different industries, most recently in the municipal government. “Being back on campus makes me feel young again. I appreciate being able to give back to the WIC community, and I loved these opportunities when I was a student.” 

“I loved the questions they asked! The students had a genuine curiosity. I hope I inspired them to follow their dreams.”, shared Jaclyn Rabin ‘05, a Real Estate Broker with Keller Williams Prestige, who was thrilled to be able to inspire students to pursue their passions.

“I think I want to be a real estate agent now based on my conversation with Jaclyn”, expressed Sec. 5 student, Dylan, who saw a lot of value in having the opportunity to learn more about different career fields, particularly real estate.

Nadine Ishak ‘92, a Multimedia Video Producer with Bell, noted how many changes have occurred since she was in university and entering the career force, and how transferable skills can offer so much value to any role. “So much has changed in every industry. It is an exciting time to be looking at postsecondary studies. Now, students who don’t necessarily fit into traditional roles can find fascinating fields.”