By Shannon Traphagen

When looking at schools, you may consider big colleges and universities across the region or nationally.school-trocaire Perhaps you’ve seen their division sports teams or have learned about them from others. It can be hard to consider other options when these bigger schools get so much attention. Many do have excellent programs and are extremely popular, but don’t overlook smaller colleges and universities that might be able to meet your needs just as well, while offering a more personalized experience.

Trocaire is a private career-oriented college that has taken great strides to expand its programming. With a student ratio of 10 to one, it is one of the nation’s most affordable private schools. Named one of the top 100 best small colleges by Great Colleges, Trocaire ranked third in Western New York for workforce development training by Business First.

“Our college has always had amazing healthcare programs. But now we have new opportunities that are enhancing other programs, such as, nutrition and wellness,” says Nicole Klem, Director of Nutrition and Dietetics. Trocaire is also focusing on self-care and preventative health, building upon nutrition as a foundation to create well-rounded course programming. “The goal is to tie coursework into nursing and other programs. We are already integrating cultural competency with students by adding a required community nutrition rotation. All the spokes in the wheel are important for Trocaire students. Our goal is to have them learn the importance of treating the whole patient,” states Klem.

Mollie Ballaro, Dean of Admissions and Workforce Development, agrees, and sees a shift in population thinking and understanding of wellness. “The pulse of our society has changed. It’s embracing integrative and holistic health more than ever before. Our students leave here prepared for that next step. It’s just as much about the student as it is about the people they will serve out in the community,” she states.

Incorporating practice and theory into every course or certification allows students to create their own path forward. “Our students chart their own course. We offer workshops and continuing education credits so that people, regardless where they are in their education or career, can pursue their interests,” says Ballaro.

What sets Trocaire apart from others is the real world experience, desirable internships, and amazing personalized student support. With outstanding placements Trocaire students get scooped up quickly, according to Cheryl Krouse, Director of the Massage Therapy program. “We place students in externships, such as Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Buffalo Hospice, and also partner with our own internal programs, such as Nutrition and Dietetics. Students learn from their mentors and many end up with some great job opportunities,” Krouse says.

A truly innovative small college, Trocaire is taking traditional healthcare programs and making them more dynamic. “We want to arm students and individuals seeking a career change with the best there is to offer in education,” says Ballaro.

WNY Reference
For more details or to register for courses or workshops visit www.trocaire.edu or call Admissions at 716-827-2545.