People of McMaster celebrates the incredible people who help make McMaster a great place to work, learn, teach and conduct research. This is the 16th instalment of this series. Click here for the previous one.
For three decades, Craig Malis has been a steadfast presence at McMaster during exam time, helping to ensure that the exam process runs smoothly for thousands of students.
As an exam room supervisor, Malis’ role is pivotal during the high-stress periods of April and December when exams are in full swing.
Malis’ journey at McMaster began in 1990 when he moved to Hamilton to pursue his master’s in geography. His commitment to creating a supportive environment for students is a testament to his passion for education and his desire to make a difference.
What does a typical day look like for you as an exam room supervisor?
We have two buildings with exams running all day during the exam season. My role involves overseeing the exam process at the Ivor Wynne Centre, which includes three main exam rooms. If any issues arise, it’s up to me to resolve them. We have another exam supervisor at the Peter George Centre for Living and Learning.
People might not realize the sheer volume of exams we handle. On a full slate of exams, we can have over 1,000 students per session in just the Ivor Wynne Centre alone. It’s a lot of coordination and effort, but we have a great team of almost 40 staff members per shift to ensure everything goes smoothly.
What has kept you at McMaster for 30 years?
I wanted to be on the other side of the exam process and support students as best as I could, because I know what they’re feeling. I can relate to their stress and anxiety.
Over the years, I’ve held a number of positions as exam staff for the Office of the Registrar, but regardless of the role, the satisfaction of helping students has always been the driving force.
How do you balance your work at McMaster with your other jobs?
I also work as a full-time elementary school teacher with the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board and part-time at Turkstra Lumber in Dundas. It’s a busy schedule, but I enjoy staying active and involved in different areas.
Teaching students in grades 4 and 5 has always been rewarding, and working at the lumber yard is a nice change of pace.
With so many students and exams over the years, do you have any funny or memorable stories to share?
One time, years ago, I arrived for my evening exam shift to find out that a completed scantron had gone missing during a previous session. A scantron is used for students to record their answers for multiple-choice exams.
Somehow, it had slipped underneath the closed-up bleachers in the Burridge gym. I volunteered to find it and, after about 10 minutes of navigating through the maze of support bars, I managed to retrieve it.
However, I ripped my pants in the process. I then had to finish my shift wearing the ripped pants since it is not like I brought spare pants with me.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to always be yourself. I used to struggle with social situations, and my friends would remind me to just be myself. It’s simple but powerful advice that has helped me navigate various challenges in life.