News
This month's Transfer Champion is David Baker. David shares his insights into transfer and student mobility drawn on his extensive experience in the sector.
David Baker
Business Intelligence Analyst–Academic Division and Pathway Coordinator, Fleming College
As a transfer champion, David is committed to advancing learner mobility and supporting student success. His 18-year career in postsecondary education began as a work-study student in the Office of the Registrar at Trent University and progressed through increasingly senior roles at Ontario Tech University. For the past eleven years, he has served as Business Intelligence Analyst – Academic Division and Pathway Coordinator at Fleming College. David shares some valuable insights drawn from his extensive experience in the sector.
Why is it important to promote and enhance student mobility?
Life isn't a straight line; it often has detours. We need a flexible postsecondary system that allows individuals to maintain momentum as they work towards their educational goals and aspirations.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
Knowing that I made a difference in someone's life is incredibly rewarding. Recently, an individual I assisted 12 years ago reached out to thank me and share their achievements. They told me how my help during the transfer and admission process contributed to their success—today, they have completed doctoral-level education and are running a successful international business.
How can learner mobility be used strategically to help students reach their academic and career goals?
Creating a plan where a student can earn a credential after two years is a good strategic choice; this option allows someone enter the workforce with a credential, enabling them to continue their educational journey part-time.
What are some of the best ways to support and improve experiences for transfer students in Ontario?
As a transfer professional, whenever possible, gain exposure to both the college and university sectors, either through educational experiences or professional development.
What's the most valuable thing you've learned about postsecondary student transfer?
Transfer allows students to change their minds about their initial choice. Above all, students must be happy and comfortable in their program and institution.
What's your go-to advice for transfer students?
Choose an institution and program at meets your goals, no one else's.
What's the best part about working with postsecondary transfer students?
The best part about working with postsecondary transfer students is the opportunity to learn from their diverse experiences. Each student's journey is unique, with its own set of challenges and successes. By listening to their transfer experiences, I gain insights allowing me to improve my work and be a better advocate for future students. Moreover, it helps identify areas where processes can be streamlined, or support can be enhanced.
How does ONTransfer.ca support your work?
ONTransfer.ca is a one-stop shop for Ontario student mobility opportunities. It highlights the important aspects of transfer that students seek, like admission requirements, information about transfer credits, and more.
What on the horizon for transfer students at your institution?
Fleming has been working on developing meaningful advanced-standing opportunities for degree holders. Recently, the College launched an opportunity for a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Molecular Biology/Forensic Biology/Forensic Science from Trent University and Ontario Tech University to complete the Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology-Advanced in 1 year, 8 months in class and a 4-month work placement. Information about this pathway is available on ONTransfer.ca.
Any final pearls of transfer wisdom you'd like to share?
Until there is a provincial course outline repository, keep your course outlines in a safe place (hard or soft copy) should you require them to support a transfer.