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Finding motivation for career advancement

Lead the Way Campaign

Category: Campaign Updates Student Awards and Learning

Making the change

Alicia is a self-proclaimed nerd and has always been interested in electronics. Coming from a family of engineers, she spent her childhood surrounded by and experimenting with technology.

After over 10 years working with at-risk youth and residential care—a career that was very fulfilling, Alicia was ready for a change. Returning to college as a mature student was daunting. “I had gone to NSCC in 2010 for Music Arts, but unfortunately I had to leave because I couldn’t get a student loan. Coming back for this round meant that I had to pay off my debt before I could apply,” Alicia said. 

Thanks to donor funding, Alicia successfully applied to a few awards and is now attending the Electronic Engineering Technician program at NSCC Ivany Campus and is on track to graduate in 2022.

Instructors have been very supportive and approachable which has made learning in a virtual environment less daunting. The blended program allows for students on technical programs to come in for in-person instruction at least once a week (as of March 2021), however, students continue to collaborate in online working groups.

Growing up in Labrador, there weren’t many opportunities for higher education. There is only so much you can do with limited resources. I knew I had to make a better life for myself. I wanted to do something different, and I am thankful that I was able to get into the program at a time when there were restrictions. Thank you for selecting me for this program. It makes going back to school a lot less stressful. The bursary gave me the support and motivation to get out of my way and change the course of my life.

Alicia Montague
Electronic Engineering Technician, Class of 2022
Recipient, WINS Bursary

What's next?

When asked about her future plans, Alicia, who is passionate about the intersection of sustainability and technology, is looking forward to embarking on a career in renewable energy technologies.

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