More Information for Students:

Research:

Since we offer students a chance to participate in real and ongoing research – it is inevitable that each year, our projects will change, our research partners may change, and our available subject areas will change. Therefore we cannot predict what our projects will be too far in advance. Rest assured, each year we have a number of diverse projects that will be sure to capture your interest.

Once we have our list of projects, students are given a chance to rank them in order of interest so they do have a say in project selection.

Research teams consist of a scientific supervisor (lead researcher), a research assistant/tutor (University student) and two students (sometimes 3). The RA/T’s role is to guide students through the project and teach the students concepts that may be new and/or difficult for them. Learn more about the RA/T’s here.

Credits:

Students undertake a research project 5 days a week resulting in two co-op credits. The credits awarded depend on the type of research students undertake and the qualifications they have already attained. In the past, students have achieved co-op credits at the Grade 11 or Grade 12 level in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Mathematics and Computer Science. For Ontario students coming to our program out of grade 10, the DRSA can only award two grade 10 science (SNC2D) cooperative credits, even if your project is designated Chemistry, Biology or Physics.

As the DRSA is a registered private school with the Ontario Ministry of Education, our credits are recognized across Canada – even in Quebec!

Please note: Co-op courses are generally not accepted as a contribution to admission requirements for the majority of Canadian universities, although the experience looks great on your applications

Accommodations:

Students share double rooms in cottages grouped around a small lake. The residence is operated by a local couple, affectionately known as “The Ogilvies”. Students are supervised by two Residence Recreation Supervisors – Res. Recs., one male and one female university student who live on site with the students. The cottages are equipped with a full bathroom, 3-4 bedrooms, a kitchen and a common room. While there are kitchen facilities, all students must take their main meals together in the main dining hall.

 

Recreation

The DRSA recognizes that students need downtime. The facility is located on 400 beautiful forested acres just outside the town of Deep River. There is a beach for swimming, canoeing and general lounging. If you like astronomy, bring your telescope! The area is free from light pollution, and we give students plenty of outdoor time to watch the skies. However, students must respect curfew.

Students get the opportunity to go into town for shopping at least once a week. Weekend trips are organized to areas in and around Deep River. Three regular trips include High Falls, Barron Canyon and an overnight trip to Ottawa.

The residence and recreation supervisors also plan a number of theme nights, events, and activities at camp to keep you occupied and entertained after a long day at work! Learn more about your Res/Recs here.

Career Planning

Undecided about what you want to do with your post-secondary career? Your DRSA experience may help you narrow it down while opening your eyes to a vast number of options available to you. Many students have found that their experiences here have helped them make decisions about post-secondary schools and career choices. After all, our program allows students to test drive a career in science!

Duke of Edinburgh

DRSA students who are working toward their Gold status for the Duke of Edinburgh award can use their experience at the DRSA for their recreation requirement. Some students have also recorded some of our weekend excursions as a piece of their practice journey.

IB

A large number of our students tend to be participating in the International Baccalaureate Program. With approval from your advisor, your research at the DRSA may be able to be applied to your independent research project. Contact us for more information.

Still unsure, or need help deciding? Why not talk to our former students – they’re on Facebook! Come visit our page to talk with our alumni.