Ross Cossar

Norwood, Ontario
Psychology

Ross Cossar believes in people helping people – it’s his adopted motto and the best way, he says, to accomplish goals. A self-described military man “dedicated to working with others”, Ross came to Trent as a mature student in 2007.

A graduate of the Royal Military College, Ross decided to further his education at an institution he was familiar with. A native of Norwood, Ontario, Ross grew up playing in the basement of Bata Library; his father was chief librarian. His wife, Lisa, graduated from Trent University in 1987. “I often point out her picture to fellow students as we walk the halls of Otonabee College,” he says.

With his studies focused on military psychology, Ross’ honours thesis was a study in the experience of care perceived by soldiers with operational stress injuries. “The ability I had to shape what I was learning to my interest in the psychology of soldiers has been the best part of my program,” he says. “What an outstanding opportunity.”

Discovering a unique field that combines his military training and sensibilities with a new found appreciation and passion for psychology has been a turning point in Ross’ life. “It’s been a simply amazing way to reinvigorate my life,” he says about completing an undergraduate degree at Trent. “Learning has been exciting and challenging.”

Ross also points to the relationships he has developed with professors and students as highlights of his Trent experience. These relationships, he says, have “guided me to new levels of excellence.”

Eager to be involved in student life at Trent, Ross was a member of the Student Psychology Society and acted as a representative on the Trent Central Students’ Association. In the fall, he will enter a Masters of Social Work program and hopes, in the future, to be employed as a military social worker and to complete a doctorate.

“My accomplishments at Trent have shown me that I can ever expand my goals and reach them,” Ross says. “I would really like to thank the students and professors who have shared my experience and made it so incredible. It’s been an example of people helping people.”