April 28, 2023 | Manitoba

Haley, a single parent from Brooks, Alberta, was struggling to make ends meet. A few years ago, she earned her diploma in exercise science but found it difficult to find work in her field. The fitness industry she had hoped to join proved to be judgmental and cliquey, leaving her feeling excluded because of her small child.

For some time, she took odd jobs to make ends meet, working in greenhouses and cleaning homes. Wanting to continue her education, she enrolled in a gerontology program, but after the birth of her second child, she found herself overwhelmed and ultimately wasn’t able to finish.

A Newfound Passion

Haley discovered she enjoyed paperwork and working with people, but didn’t know what to do. It wasn’t until after the start of the pandemic and becoming housebound that she found CDI College and enrolled in their online Medical Office Administration program.

From the start, Haley loved the program.

It wasn't without some bumps in the road, however. She found it challenging to manage her time and was diagnosed with ADHD early on. It explained a lot to her, but she knew as long as she was interested in the material, she wouldn’t procrastinate and would be able to focus. Fortunately, this wasn’t the problem she imagined, she loved the majority of her courses.

Determination Pays Off

Despite some technical issues, she persevered with the support of her instructors and was able to get an extension when needed. She was surprised to find that even though the program was online, the staff and instructors were there for her and able to help her through her problems.

Haley's determination paid off, and she worked hard to maintain high grades in all her courses.

After completing the program, Haley quickly found work in a physiotherapy clinic; they even offered to accommodate her practicum.

She loved the role from the start; it had the right amount of interaction with people, and she could do the paperwork she has found a passion for.

Haley’s initial goals of finding a job have been exceeded; she has found a career that satisfies her and gives her the freedom to spend more time with her kids. She keeps an upbeat attitude, and though she doesn't know what the future holds, she's in a positive place and happy with her work.

Reflecting on her experience, Haley advises other students to keep structure in their lives and use their planner. She knows that it can be tough to manage time and stay on top of assignments. She also suggests getting work done on weekdays so they can have the weekends to themselves.

Haley's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Despite setbacks and challenges, she was able to find her passion and build a career that she loves. Her experience also highlights the importance of supportive educators and institutions that can make all the difference in a student's success.