The pathway from high school to meaningful career isn't always straightforward, especially for students passionate about understanding human development and family dynamics. In this special episode aimed at high school students, we turn the spotlight on Western University's Family Studies and Human Development program with two inspiring guests at different career stages.Associate Professor Roula Hawa and teacher candidate Grace Gillett share their journeys through family studies – Roula transitioning from 15 years as a high school family studies teacher to doctoral studies and university teaching, and Grace discovering her passion for education through Western's undergraduate program. Their stories reveal how family studies provides both roots (understanding where we come from) and wings (exploring diverse career possibilities).We explore the rich history of family studies in Canada, tracing its origins to Adelaide Hoodless, whose son's death from unpasteurized milk in 1903 led her to establish Canada's first domestic science teaching school. This historical foundation has evolved into today's interdisciplinary field drawing from psychology, sociology, anthropology, education, and more.What makes Western's program particularly valuable is its flexibility and real-world applications. Students study all types of families through a strengths-based, resilience-focused lens. Graduates pursue diverse careers in law, medicine, education, social work, and business. Grace shares her transformative experience conducting research with abuse survivors and teaching nutrition in elementary schools – opportunities that confirmed her calling to education.For students considering their options, both guests emphasize keeping an open mind, embracing opportunities, and developing leadership skills. The interdisciplinary nature of family studies creates pathways into numerous fields while building transferable skills valued by employers. As Roula wisely notes, "It's okay to fail, because when you fail, you learn."Curious about where your interest in family studies might lead? Listen for insights on program requirements, course offerings, and how to become a Professional Home Economist in this eye-opening exploration of post-secondary possibilities.Show Notes: Western Faculty of Health Science – Family Studies  https://welcome.uwo.ca/what-can-i-study/undergraduate-programs/family-studies.html  OFSHEEA https://ofsheea.education/ OHEA  https://www.ohea.on.ca/How to Become a Professional Home Economist   https://www.ohea.on.ca/ohea-course.html Student Branches  https://www.ohea.on.ca/student-branches.htmlLearn more about Adelaide Hoodless -  https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/adelaide-hoodless  Learn more about Ellen Swallow Richards - https://www.sciencehistory.org/education/scientific-biographies/ellen-h-swallow-richards/ Be sure to like and follow this podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Follow OFSHEEA on social media IG @OFSHEEAFacebook @Ontario Family Studies Home Economics Educators' AssociationEmail at [email protected]

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