Discover Year integrates practical and interactive education, experiential learning, and skill development into a unique and meaningful year away from formal studies. The program follows a structured approach that blends skills workshops, work, travel, and community service, as well as ongoing mentorship and one-on-one career coaching throughout the year.
Discover Year Timeline
A detailed overview of the Discover Year 2023-24 calendar can be found here.
Program Components
Discover Year incorporates five elements of hands-on, experiential learning throughout the year:
Crucial Skills Workshops
Timing:
Every Wednesday throughout your Discover Year
One day every week – Discovery Day – all students come together for a day of fun and engaging education. These days are dedicated to skills workshops, career panels, and group discussions, which help students develop both "hard" and "soft" skills related to communication, entrepreneurship, career development, organization and time management, critical thinking, and much more.
Coaching & Mentorship
Timing:
Ongoing throughout your Discover Year
When you join the Discover Year program, you will be matched with a Life-Path Coach based on your interests, aspirations and personality, and participate in bi-weekly one-on-one coaching sessions. Your coach will work with you to better understand your authentic interests, values, and talents, and show you how you can make use of them within the current labour market.
Work Terms
Timing:
September to January, and March to June
Throughout Discover Year, our students participate in two 5-month work terms, which help them gain hands-on work experience and develop critical professional skills. Whether you have previous work experience or you're looking for your very first job, we will help you craft a professional résumé and cover letter and coach you on effective communication strategies to connect with employers.
Travel
Timing:
February
The one-month independent travel period is intended to expand your worldview and build confidence by stepping outside of your comfort zone. Adaptability, problem-solving, and cultural awareness are crucial skills in today’s job market, and without exception, our students always improve these skills during their travels.
Watch our video to see the highlights of our students' exciting travels and explorations.
Community Projects
Timing:
Two projects (one per work term)
Through a community service group project each work term, you will explore important social issues, build teamwork skills, and support your community in a meaningful way. Discover Year staff support the development of the project, but ultimately it is up to each group to decide which issue they want to tackle, what impact they want to create, and how to implement their project.
