Rodginie Dorcent
Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology (Global Mental Health field)
Expected year of graduation: 2026
What led you to apply to APHD at OISE?
What led me to apply to APHD at OISE was much more than academics; it was a calling. Ive always believed in the power of healing through connection, community, and care. Furthermore, the program I am doing has a unique focus on global mental health, aligned with past experiences I had working with the Global Mental Health Division of the American Psychological Association. It gave me a place to bring my passion for mental health, gender equity, and trauma-informed care to life in a global context. Moreover, OISE has the reputation of one of the best schools of Education, not just in America but in the world.
What was your past experience like?
Before coming to 遙ぺ整氈窒, I wore many hats back home in Haiti. I coordinated the youth center at the YWCA, offering girls a safe place to grow, read, and dream. I served as a hotline responder and supervisor for the primary mental health hotline in Haiti (Celllule dIntervention Psychotherapeutoque dHaiti), providing critical support in times of crisis. I helped organize a national Psychology of Peace Summit with the Association Haitienne de Psychologie, where over 400 people gathered to reimagine peace and healing in insecurity. I also worked as a Teaching Assistant at Universit矇 dEtat dHa簿ti and Research Assistant in different labs. Each experience taught me something new about resilience and about the kind of professional I want to become.
Are there any past accomplishments that you would like to highlight?
One accomplishment that fills me with pride was being selected for the UN Women/UNAOC/UNICEF Young Women Peacebuilders Program and the U.S. State Departments International Visitor Leadership Program on Human Rights. It was deeply humbling to be recognized for my commitment to creating safe, empowering spaces for survivors of gender-based violence in conflict-affected areas.
What is one thing you like most about your experience so far at OISE?
OISE has become more than a place of learning for me, its been a space of transformation. The richness of the discussions, the warmth of the professors, and the genuine sense of belonging have made all the difference. I especially appreciate how OISE encourages critical reflection, cultural humility, and a global perspective. Here, I feel seen, not just as a student, but as a woman, a Haitian, with a story, a culture, and a voice.
What is your favourite thing about Toronto?
Outside of class, I enjoy discovering Torontos rich cultural mosaic, especially its green spaces and food variety.
What does your weekend typically look like?
On weekends, youll often find me in the kitchen cooking (I love everything spicy, I dont do mild), exploring nature trails that remind me of the mountains back home, or planning faith-based events that bring people together for open conversations and laughter. I also express my creativity through modest fashion, drawing inspiration from biblical women and the beauty of simplicity. On a weekend, you can find me at a Caf矇, walking in the city, at a grocery store (lol), and at Church.
Where do you see yourself after you achieve your degree from APHD?
After earning my degree from OISE, I see myself contributing to the field of mental health through private practice, offering culturally responsive, trauma-informed counseling to individuals navigating complex life transitions, migration, and identity. I want to continue creating spaces of healing, dignity, and hope where every story is honored. Moreover, I picture myself designing community-based programs that support mental health in post-conflict and underserved communities globally..
Piti piti, zwazo f癡 nich li (Little by little, the bird builds its nest.). This Haitian proverb reminds me that healing and transformation happen one step at a time. Whether walking alongside a client, building community programs, or learning within OISEs supportive environment, every moment is part of something bigger, something lasting. And Im grateful to be building this nest of hope one small branch at a time. After all, this journey at APHD is about more than education, its about becoming the kind of counselor, advocate, and leader who holds space for others to grow, heal, and thrive.
