Top continuing education student receives diploma in single semester

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Dan_diplom_9.5.05-005.jpg” caption=”Daniel Martinu holds the diploma he received by mail.”]When visiting a relative in a distant country, most people spend the time visiting family and seeing the sights. Not Daniel Martinu.

Last year, the Prague resident visited his aunt, who lives in Freelton, about 15 kilometres northeast of Hamilton. Rather than the usual drives in the country or walks around the city, Daniel decided to take a course. He enrolled in the Management Studies program offered through McMaster University's Centre for Continuing Education in Summer, 2004. During the span of a single semester, he managed to complete all eight courses by December of that year, and wrote the exams. He achieved the highest academic standing in his class. Upon returning to Prague, he was able to find employment with a firm in Moscow.

“It's definitely a first,” says Anne Dwyer, program manager at the Centre. “We were really taken with Daniel's enthusiasm and diligence.”

Although Daniel cannot attend convocation (he received his diploma by mail), more than 190 students will graduate tonight. The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. in the CIBC Banquet Hall, McMaster University Student Centre. Teresa Cascioli, CEO and chair of Lakeport Beverage Corporation, will give the keynote address.