N940 Ross
Want to meet York Alumni and other professionals who graduated with a Law & Society or Criminology degree? Interested to learn more about their career journey and current roles.
Connect with professionals currently enjoying careers in a variety of settings and get the inside scoop on what it’s really like to work in these fields. During this panel professionals will share their personal stories about breaking into their field, how their career paths took them from graduation to where they are now, what knowledge, skills and experience helped them succeed in their jobs and what types of opportunities are available in their field. The panel will be moderated by one of the Career Centre’s team members and followed by an open forum where students will have an opportunity to ask the panelists their own questions.
Participating Panelists:
Michael Fazzari
Associate Analyst, The Regional Municipality of York
Alumnus: B.A. (Hons). Law and Society, 2016
Completing my studies in the Law & Society program at York University allowed me to realize my true passion and long-term goals. I was confident that I wanted to pursue a career that was both rewarding and meaningful to the overall welfare of society. Working as a Policy Analyst at York Region affords me with the opportunity to work on meaningful projects and policies that have a direct impact on the community that I reside in.
Nabeel Rahman
Community Development Specialist, Town of Oakville
Alumnus: B.A. (Hons). Law and Society, 2009
My career journey is as diverse as the interdisciplinary courses of Law and Society. I currently work as a Community Development Specialist and have over 10 years of experience in community engagement, youth services, and policy analysis. If there is one thing I have learned, it is that passion more than anything else, is the most important element of a successful career.
Samantha Maharaj
Staff Lawyer, Legal Aid Ontario
Alumna: Hons. Dbl. Maj. Criminology & Psychology, 2011
I have always been interested in working with and helping marginalized groups. After completing my undergraduate degree at York University, I went on to attend law school. Upon graduating, I articled with Legal Aid Ontario and was eventually hired full-time. I assist low income Ontarians with their criminal, family and child protection matters. It is tough, but very rewarding work and I truly feel like I am making a difference.
Mari Hotta
Manager, Regulatory Compliance, Scotiabank
Alumna: Hons. BA, Criminology & Philosophy, 2010
I wanted to be a lawyer since I was a little girl. Every decision I made during high school and my undergraduate career was geared towards achieving this goal. The planning ended there! I've learned so much about the importance of being lucky, finding people to champion for you, and being honest about your priorities when thinking about what you need from your career. I'm grateful for where those lessons have taken me.
Stephanie Patt
Enforcement Case Officer, Canada Border Services Agency
Alumna: BA Criminology and Psychology (double major), 2015
If you had asked me 8 years ago what I wanted to do when I graduate the answer would have been simple: practice criminal law. Never did I believe that applying to a student work placement with the Federal Government of Canada in my third year would have led to a career. Since graduating in 2015, I have had the opportunity to work with Immigration Enforcement all over the country. It feels incredible being able to utilize my degree everyday while ensuring the security and prosperity of Canada and its borders.
Katherine Lis
Program Coordinator, City of Toronto Shelter Support and Housing Administration
Alumna: BA Criminology, 2007
My degree in Criminology from York University taught me how to critically think and also the importance of building strong communities. I currently work as a Program Coordinator for the City of Toronto's Shelter Support and Housing Administration. I have 10 years' experience in policy and program development as well as front line involvement. I have a passion for community development and creating policies and programs to facilitate that. One thing I learned in my career is that learning never ends and always be open to change, especially when it's daunting!
