Design skills are learned through demonstrations, hands-on creating, and with repetition and practice of the skills learned. No one is born a talented designer. We all learn to channel our creativity.

What age are the students?

This is one of the wonderful aspects of the program. The program has younger students who are recent graduates from high school, and some of whom have done a co-op placement in a flower shop. The middle and largest group are in their mid 20's and 30's, and many have families. The third group are individuals planning for retirement or a career change. They have many skills and are looking to be creative in a second career. What is remarkable, and refreshing, is the interaction and sharing within the class.

What types of jobs are available?

Traditionally, graduates work in flower shops. These are small businesses and one gets to do almost everything - customer service, phone orders, packaging, designing, display, and the ordering and processing of floral products. Work days are varied and busy. Graduates may also choose to work in the mass merchandizing stores. For example, Loblaws has floral departments, as does Sobeys and other grocery store chains. These locations also give students the opportunity of working and running garden centres. The third area of employment is in the interior and tropical plant industry - both in retail mass merchandizing stores' plant departments (for example Rona) and in interior plantscape and maintenance firms.

Can I open my own business?

Many graduates have opened their own shops, other graduates manage already established stores. In addition to floral design, the program has courses in marketing, sales and display, as well as Flower Shop operations.

Are there many jobs?

Yes, in the graduate survey 2001-2002, 95% of the students in the program were employed.

How much homework will I have?

Because the program is only 32 weeks -the first week of September to the end of April - a lot of information is covered. As with similar intensive programs homework is necessary to complete assignments and to study. For example, there are regular quizzes for the identification and Latin nomenclature of flowers and plants. This information is covered in several courses - care and handling of flowers and foliage, interior plants and floral lab. There are also team projects that will require research and presentation skills.

Do I have to find my own placement during the program?

No, the college will make these arrangements for you. Over the course of the school year, students complete two placements. Students' marks and preferences are considered when assigning placement opportunities.

Do I have to take the full day program?

No, the program is diverse, friendly, and career-oriented. At Algonquin you will receive personal and professional attention. The program will adapt to your learning needs whether full-time, part-time, or January intake. All are available.

Is it possible to sit in on a class?

Absolutely, just call the coordinator, Lyn Whyte, to schedule a date and time.