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When Jim Leitch (BHSc ’16) crossed the stage at convocation this past spring, he couldn’t help but wonder what his future would look like had he not visited Dal’s website back in 2009. It truly was a “turning point.”

As a respiratory therapist, Jim had worked in the public and private sector for seven years upon graduating college in 1999. While he had a rewarding career, he knew building upon his education and obtaining a bachelor’s degree would provide more opportunities.  

“I was at a point in my life where the idea of going back to school was intimidating. I was married with two children and a busy career, but the desire to obtain a degree was never far from my mind.”

Through a chance encounter with a colleague, and Dal alumna, Jim learned about Dal’s Post Diploma Bachelor of Health Sciences program. The program is designed for health professionals interested in completing a degree and expanding career opportunities.

But it wasn’t the curriculum that gave him the push he needed, it was a quote that greeted him on the homepage.

“It read, ‘In 10 years you could still be thinking about getting your degree, or you could have it.’ That really spoke to me.”

While Jim says his university experience wasn’t conventional (it’s an online-based program), it fit his personal life and career, and he felt his previous experience was valued.

“Dal respects the training and knowledge that students have already gained. That factor was so crucial to me, and something I couldn’t find in other programs.”

As part of the program, students also broaden their knowledge of the health-care system, which provided Jim a chance to learn about other areas and fields that interested him.

“I was exposed to public health which really intrigued me. Now I’m looking ahead with a focus on working in public health and the possibility of obtaining my master’s degree in epidemiology.

“This whole journey has been about so much more than receiving a credential. I’ve learned a lot about my passions and interests. It’s also reinforced what is most important to me in a career… ultimately it’s about helping people.”