(Image From Georgian College Website).
An Owen Sound Georgian College co-op student is being recognized for his perseverance and efforts.
A release notes 34-year-old Marine Technology – Navigation student Daniel Torres Flores from Peru, was honoured with several nominations as well as the Co-op and Career Success team at the college for showing his ongoing dedication to his academics and career success.
Flores worked for his recognition while even experiencing a language barrier.
“Firstly, English is not my first language so it was a barrier at the beginning,” Flores says. “I am alone in this country that is not mine, however my personality and helping others helped me to make friends that today have become family.”
He also experienced an interruption to his studies, suffering a physical injury and needing surgery as well as four months of recovery.
During his last placement at the Algoma Central Corporation, Flores performed several duties on deck including greasing, chipping, painting, loading, discharging, mooring operation, cleaning cargo holds, deck hosing, as well as safety inspections.
“Towards the end of my co-op, I pushed for myself to have bridge time and learn what officers need to perform watch-keeping duties and radio calls, and to organize crews on deck,” adds Flores.
Issuing advice for future co-op students, Flores says they should do their logbooks as much as they can and never be shy to ask questions to their officers.
“Remember you’re there to learn and get training,” he notes. “Do not feel bad if you made a mistake or struggle at first, we all pass through that. Most important, be honest if you made a mistake and be willing to take responsibility and learn from that. Being humble and perseverant can get you far.”
Flores aims to one day become a captain.