[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Calderone_Yvette.jpg” caption=”Ivette Calderon is taking management studies courses through the Centre for Continuing Education.”]Students come to McMaster University's Centre for Continuing Education for many reasons. Some are changing careers. Others are just beginning their working lives. Some are seeking professional credentials like a CMA designation. Some choose to pursue a certificate or diploma as the first step on a path towards degree studies. Others just love to learn.

Whatever the reason, McMaster has committed to providing each and every student with the best professional educational experience possible.

“McMaster has given me the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life. As an international student, I feel part of an institution that tries to understand my unique needs,” says management studies student Ivette Calderon.

“Our students are busy people. Most are balancing work and family responsibilities in addition to their personal development goals,” says Lisa Boniface, assistant director of the Centre for Continuing Education. A committed lifelong learner, Boniface recently completed a degree in adult education.

“Everything we do — from scheduling classes outside of traditional working hours, to offering distance education options, to incorporating student feedback in our planning processes — comes from an understanding that adult learners benefit from helping to direct their own learning process,” says Boniface.

McMaster's dedication to lifelong learning is demonstrated through its employee tuition assistance program. McMaster employees are eligible for tuition assistance for certificate and diploma studies through the Centre for Continuing Education. Some restrictions apply.

Centre for Continuing Education students also influenced the development of the “Put YOURSELF First” contest and the new course catalogue.

The “Put YOURSELF First” contest prize is a $250 gift certificate that can be used for accommodation, dining or spa experiences at any of Ontario's Finest Inns & Spas. The contest is open to anyone with the exception of McMaster employees and current or recent Centre for Continuing Education students.

Complete contest rules and eligibility criteria are available on the contest website. Entries must be received by midnight on Sept. 10, 2008. To enter, visit www.mcmastercce.com/contest. Please visit www.mcmastercce.com to register for classes.