Program
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Hometown
Transcript
Paige graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Regina in December, 2020. Her entire 4 year program was taken through Cumberland College. In fact, the ability to get the complete degree in her home community was one of the features that drew Paige to the Social Work program. As a single parent, she did not want to have to relocate; taking her education in her home community meant she was able to stay close to her supports while allowing her children to remain in their daycare. Paige acknowledges that if she had relocated, she does not know if she would have been successful in her university studies.
Paige started at Cumberland College in the Adult Basic Education program. At that time, she was a single parent, going to school during the day, working 2 jobs, and feeling guilty for not spending more time with her children. She graduated from Grade 12 in 2015 and found employment in an area that enabled her to support herself and her family, while spending more time as a parent. However, in 2017, realizing that her heart was not in her job, she made the scariest decision of her life - to quit her job and enter university. In both ABE and university, Paige found the atmosphere at the College very welcoming and supportive. Regardless of their position at the College, staff were helpful and made sure Paige received the assistance she needed. Academic advising was especially beneficial for Paige and the instructors were approachable and sincerely interested in the well-being of their students. Paige also appreciated being able to access office equipment such as computers and printers during both the day and evening. Tutoring, academic adaptations, counselling, and scholarships are additional resources Paige identified as available at the College if needed. As financial obstacles were one of the biggest hurdles for Paige to overcome, she was excited to win scholarships from Cumberland College. By helping her pay her bills, the scholarships helped her to remain on track with her academic program. Paige's favorite memories of her time at the College were the Christmas potlucks and other get-togethers. These opportunities to gather as a large group, meet people, and make friends introduced Paige to people and life stories that she would not have had met especially with her busy university schedule.
In January, 2021, Paige will start a new and exciting career with the Ministry of Social Services. She plans to use her own experience as a single parent who has overcome barriers to help others access resources and maximize their potential. In the future, Paige hopes to return to university to pursue her Master's degree with the potential goal of private practice.
It is amazing to see local people fulfill their dreams at home. Congratulations Paige on completing your Social Work degree through Cumberland College. Best of luck to you in the future!
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