Sheryle Lissimore

Sheryle Lissimore

Sheryle Lissimore wanted to take the Dispensing Optician Program at Douglas College, but she knew she didn't have the academic skills required to complete College assignments.

"You can't just pick up a piece of paper and start writing an essay. It's a process. You have to know what's expected of you and you have to make a plan," says Lissimore.

To upgrade her math and writing skills, Lissimore turned to Developmental Studies, which gives students a chance to build their math, English and study skills up to the College-level, tuition-free.

"We provide students with the opportunity to develop the skills they need to do what they want with their lives," says Hilary Rourke, the coordinator of the Developmental Studies Program at Douglas College.

Too many students don't do as well as they could in College because they are missing some core study skills, or they just need to brush-up on their writing skills, says Rourke. She wants students to consider whether they need to upgrade before they find themselves overwhelmed by academic stress.

"If you take a College course and you're not ready and you don't pass, it costs money," says Rourke. "If you take a course and you pass but not with the grade point average you need, you aren't any closer to your goal. The competition is so intense for people who want to transfer to university, it's not enough just to scrape by."

Lissimore took writing, math and study skills courses in Developmental Studies before moving on to College courses. "I came here with the attitude that getting a C was good. I was in with a group of people who had very high standards. Some of them were disappointed with a B+. When you are with people who want to succeed, it makes you want to succeed."

Having supportive instructors helped incredibly, adds Lissimore. "They were available for me. They had time before and after class. And they let us know about College services like the Learning Centre."

Math was her greatest challenge. She says, "I don't know why I was so afraid of it. It's not all that easy, but I understand now." Lissimore ended up with an A+ in DVST 411 Math and went on to get A's, B's and one C+ in five College courses.

Rourke urges other students to follow Lissimore's example. "You can save yourself time by doing your upgrading. Make sure you are entering your courses with the skills and knowledge that you need to do well."

As a Developmental Studies student, Lissimore took calculated risks. "I wanted to make sure I'd succeed so I only took on what I knew I could handle. I wanted to get to my goal and do it well."

Now, Lissimore is ready for the Dispensing Optician Program. Her biggest challenge ahead lies in meeting the expectations she has set for herself. "My standards have grown. I only want A's now. Once you start to succeed, you just want to raise the bar."

To find out more about Developmental Studies, please call Hilary Rourke at 604-527-5156. Before taking a Developmental Studies course, students must have an assessment to determine which level of Developmental Studies courses would be appropriate.