Student Success Stories
Students building for future students
Carpentry student Hilary Ward embraces hands-on learning as she works on-site at Akerley Campus’s student housing build while completing her Carpentry Diploma.
Design for difference
Paul Adams is a two-time NSCC grad and the official designer of Nova Scotia’s annual African Heritage Month posters - a role he was honoured to take on following his NSCC co-op placement.
Chefs, partners build life on Easy Street
Culinary Management grad Kelly-Jo Beck and her fiancé Lalanya Kaizer (Cook Apprentice) are two-thirds of the talented trio behind the award-winning Easy Street Diner in Halifax.
A concrete foundation for a new career
With online classes and a focus on practical skills, NSCC’s Professional Sales program gave Christina Blair the flexibility and confidence she needed to pursue a career in sales.
Nova Scotia is Where It’s At
There’s no shortage of things to see, do and taste in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley region, and Jeremy Novak, owner of Where It’s At Tours, is excited to show it all off.
A nursing dream fulfilled
It was an unexpected visit to the Valley Regional Hospital that first sparked Tyler Wentzell’s interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. Today, the nurse and Middleton native is a three-time NSCC graduate and one of two fall Convocation valedictorians.
Where she’s meant to be
Enrolling in the Practical Nursing Diploma program was an easy career decision for Mary Durant, one of two fall Convocation valedictorians.
Pursuing her passion for creativity
Anisa Francoeur knew college was the right choice for her. Now she’s taking what she learned and keeping things creative with a career in graphic design. Learn more about her journey and tattoo-inspired art.
A new career in tech
Sandrico Provo’s decision to go back to school for IT Programming at NSCC helped him find a tech career in Nova Scotia that he loves.
The business of music
Myke Bulley doesn’t see himself as musical, but with multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated artists on his artist roster and the world's best in the business using his company’s software, the Music Business grad says he feels at home in his career.
Grad-owned business 'Ups' their NSCC connection
Kate Elliot (Public Relations ‘14) has always been an active alum in the NSCC community. During the College’s 25th anniversary, she reached a personal goal when her business was hired to help with celebrations.
Alum duo makes visual reconnection with College
A few months before convocation, classmates Jane Nicholson and Kristen Brown created Arrow & Knot Productions in an editing room at NSCC’s Ivany Campus. This year, their videography company reached a huge milestone after being selected to be part of NSCC’s 25th anniversary.
Grad builds innovative new school in Barbados
When Ryan Massiah left Barbados at 20-years-old to pursue new opportunities in Canada, he couldn’t have imagined that he’d one day return as the CEO of a multi-stream organization building a not-for-profit school in his home community in cooperation with the United Nations.
The Magic of Sea Salt
Kim, NSCC Business Administration - Accounting student, and her partner Onya are the founders of OK Sea Salt in LaHave, Nova Scotia.
Connection and community
With support from NSCC International and EduNova’s Study & Stay™ in Nova Scotia program, Amelia arrived in Springhill ready to build a career as an early childhood educator. Today, she’s an active alum who helps others forge connections and build community.
Recipe for success
Chefs Mark Paterson and Krista LeTerte are building a culinary empire on Cape Breton Island. The two, award-winning talents and their team create hundreds of thoughtfully curated, expertly prepared apps, entrees and desserts each day for clients across four lines of business.
A life’s purpose
At the age of 6, Vanity Thompson knew she wanted to become a nurse. While life took a different path than expected, she discovered her dream was within reach when she enrolled in the African Canadian Transition Program. Today, she’s a nurse in the QEII’s COVID-19 Unit.
A life's purpose
Vanity Thompson is a two-time NSCC grad and nurse at the QEII's COVID-19 Unit. Learn how she gained the confidence at college to pursue her dream career.
Strength through story
Andre Fenton is a two-time NSCC graduate, award-winning writer and youth mentor. Learn how he draws on his skills and experience to help young people find their voice and the strength to tell their stories.
An excellent student leader
Levi Ogbaje, a 2nd-year Welding Inspection and Quality Control student at NSCC Pictou Campus, has received the 2021 Silver Award for Student Leadership Excellence from Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).
NSCC grad launches local meal-kit business
Learn how Kara Friesen launched PieceMeal Food Provisions after winning the Scotiabank Entrepreneur in the Making Program at Kingstec Campus.
Protecting Cape Breton waters from marine debris
Award-winning environmentalist uses NSCC education to inspire others
Smarts, strength and resilience
At 52, Christine MacKenzie enrolled in Welding Inspection and Quality Control at Pictou Campus, returning to the classroom after more than 30 years in the workforce. Today, she is a Certified Welding Inspector and a committed life-long learner.
Shipbuilder achieves childhood career dream during pandemic
Unique Jones-MacKenzie achieved a childhood dream when he became one of 20 graduates from the Pathways to Shipbuilding Program for African Nova Scotians, which concluded at the Halifax Shipyard during the global pandemic.
Sharing Black stories, amplifying Black voices
More than five years ago, Radio Television Journalism students at Ivany Campus began investigating a generations-old injustice in the historically-Black community of North Preston. Second-year student Matthew Byard and his fellow continue this work today.
A virtual exchange
When COVID-19 required Culinary Management students and faculty to cancel a planned NSCC International trip to the Philippines for the Culinary Cup, an international culinary competition, all was not lost. Students and faculty organized a virtual, culinary exchange that would bring the tastes of Nova Scotia to the Southeast Asian nation.
Building a legacy
Antonia Wareham graduated from the first Pathways to Shipbuilding Program, offered in partnership with Women Unlimited in 2015. Today, she's a Journeyperson Welder at the Halifax Shipyard and a mentor to others.
Two-Eyed Seeing
Kieran Wasuek Johnson spent her summers discovering nature alongside Mi'kmaw Elders on the Bras d'Or Lakes. Today, she's a camp mentor who weaves traditional knowledge and formal training to protect, discover and experience Unama'ki.
From the ground up
André Rosnok completed his Carpenter apprentice technical training and Red Seal Exam at Marconi Campus. Today, he's leading the team of skilled workers building the campus's new home in Downtown Sydney.
Standing on guard
Trinidadian army veteran Davis Whittle came to Canada in search of new opportunities and to complete the Criminal Justice program at NSCC. He's now a Correctional Officer at the province's largest correctional facility.
From nursing to carpentry
NSCC grad builds award-winning brand, business and Instagram following.
An ocean of opportunity
NSCC grad, researcher joins research project to protect Nova Scotia’s seabed.
Follow your passion
Eskasoni's Kieran Wasuek Johnson is committed to a career in sustainable natural resources development.
Floating into entrepreneurship
At a crossroad, NSCC grad reinvents herself, creating calm in the chaos.
The Revival Initiative
NSCC students launch online music series during pandemic.
Culinary student feeds 300 long haul drivers
Kingstec Campus Culinary Management student Joan Godsey is making to-go meals for the 300 commercial drivers of Eassons Transport Group in Kentville, NS., during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Covers for Comfort
NSCC grads use music to spread happiness amid pandemic.
Ensuring Quality
NSCC grad helps Ubisoft gain international recognition for app.
Designing a New Future
Korean-born digital animator chases her dream at NSCC Truro Campus.
Coaching Greatness
NSCC grad, Coach Colter Simmonds, inspires young leaders through sport.
Soldiering on
After near-death experience, veteran enrols in Radio Television Journalism Program at NSCC.
Welcome to Wedgeport
NSCC diploma becomes pathway to permanent residency for Korean-born grad.
Perfect blend
NSCC student looks to perfect Nova Scotia’s red and white wines.
Hunting for treasure
NSCC community helps bring History Channel’s hit show to international audiences.
Maritime made television
NSCC Radio Television Journalism grad brings Maritime culture and communities to the big screen.
My future is not determined. I am.
Carpentry grad Denika Coakley was born to be a creator.
Perfect your passion
Learn what NSCC student Jerusha Young-Connor thinks about Nova Scotia wine.
Raise your own bar
Get to know NSCC alumni and music producer, Jordan Williams.
Dreaming is easy. Doing takes courage.
At NSCC, a former Nepalese refugee realizes her childhood dream of becoming a nurse.
Designing her own future
Lindsay McMullen's co-op placement led to a design career in the tech industry.
Creating a unique career as a booking agent
Stephanie Purcell is a NSCC grad devoted to promoting Nova Scotia talent and bringing talent to Nova Scotia.
Pursuing a passion for entrepreneurship
Yarnell Arsenault is a NSCC alumni and entrepreneur taking charge of his future.
Making a career change
Karina Matthews-Denny graduated in 2001 and then went back to school later for a new career.
Blazing a trail in the music industry
Corey LeRue's determination and education have helped him realize his dreams.
Determined in Delhi
Writing passion and outstanding community support brings law student sisters from India to NSCC.
Managing talent
Multi-award-winning NSCC PR grad heads talent management agency.
Following parents’ entrepreneurial footsteps
NSCC grad supports 500 events annually through party supply and rental company.
The right fit
NSCC Office Administration grad Karina Matthews-Denny is supporting Senator Dan Christmas in Membertou.
Lead by example
NSCC Non-Profit Leadership grad Brenda Francis works to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.
From COGS to NASA
NSCC grad a world-wide expert and advocate for free and open geospatial sharing.
Legacy in action
NSCC Kingstec Campus grad inspires free market with stylish business initiative for those in need.
Artist becomes Industrial Engineering Technologist
NSCC grad comes back to class as mature student and applies artistry to new career.
Using GIS data to build accessible, interactive maps
NSCC grad empowers Halifax residents to make a difference in their community with interactive maps.
Telecommunications company relies on GIS grad
NSCC grad uses advanced diploma to meet growing demands of Eastlink customers.
A titan in the field
NSCC grad Ashley Innocente opens bi-coastal security firm.
Navy Petty Officer gets start at NSCC
NSCC Electro Mechanical Tech program inspires military career and builds confidence.
Big dreams, big heart
After showing a film at TIFF, Abdullah Kafashe returned to NSCC to take his filmmaking knowledge to the next level.
Cape Breton company supports entrepreneurs with innovative tech
NSCC Business grad creates online ordering system for small, family-owned restaurants.
An innovative proposition
Proposify Co-Founder and CEO Kyle Racki and Community Manager Lindsey Ward are both NSCC Graphic Design grads.
Quality, honesty and integrity
NSCC International Business grad, inspired by grandfather’s legacy, creates artisanal pens for clients around the world.
Nurturing the minds of tomorrow
Frankie-Rae Quinn found her dream career close to home thanks to NSCC's Early Childhood Education program.
Having a ball at REDspace
NSCC Web Development grad builds career and creates showpiece VR game for Steam.
Thriving in the right learning environment
Business Administration student driven to make the most of NSCC opportunities
From India to NSCC for an aviation career
Mithun Mathew is looking forward to working in Canada after completing the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program.
Producing the sound of success
Two-time NSCC grad Corey LeRue is the producer, songwriter and DJ for Neon Dreams.
Grad opens therapeutic mini animal farm in Mount Denson
NSCC grad opens therapeutic mini animal farm in Mount Denson.
Kingstec student vying for spot on Canada’s Paralympic Team
Ben Brown is on track to become the world’s fastest wheelchair athlete.
Anything but average
NSCC Business grad opens salon and spa in Bridgewater.
Recreation grad heads to the NHL
NSCC Community Recreation grad Ian Cox is the Assistant Equipment Manager for the Ottawa Senators.
Chef at sea
NSCC grad's comfort food helps Coast Guard search and rescue crew feel at home in the Arctic.
Music to his ears
NSCC grad Tyler Surette found a career as a diesel mechanic that combines his passion and interests.
It's never too late
After two decades working out West, Shawn Goulding is fulfilling his dream as a practical nurse.
Savouring success
World-travelled NSCC grad showcases Nova Scotian tastes to global audience.
Sibling success
Five siblings complete Adult Learning Program after arriving in Canada.
Redefining professional headshots
NSCC grad creates automated photo booth that snaps professional-quality photos.
Mastering the mainframe
NSCC students come out on top in IBM Master the Mainframe Contest.
Artistic ability overcomes injury
Injury leads to opportunity for NSCC grad and airbrush artist Andrew Burgess.
Grads share Mi'kmaw culture through tourism operation
Kluskap Ridge in Cape Breton offers unique experiences for campers.
Sheet Harbour brewery encourages tourism
NSCC Tourism Management grad behind Sober Island Brewing Company.