declared a global pandemic tied to the outbreak of COVID-19.Hoping to prevent a medical field from being stretched too thin, the College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario reached out to several schools in the province with the aim of fast-tracking certifications in order to boost Ontario’s workforce.Fanshawe College’s respiratory therapy program answered the call and Alcock was among 43 third-year students given early licensing and sent to the front lines just weeks before graduation.“It was the best thing that could possibly happen,” Alcock said. “Getting that opportunity to jump right in and help — it was a great, fulfilling feeling.” Coronavirus: Ontario college sends respiratory therapists to work ahead of schedule Alcock received.