What were you doing before attending Sprott Shaw College?
I was struggling, frequently unemployed because I could not find work I loved with my little qualifications as a high school dropout. I felt very lost and frustrated with myself. I had a couple good younger years doing some acting, performing, and making good retail connections but it just wasn’t enough.
Why did you choose Sprott Shaw College?
I had heard from a friend that there was a Community Support Worker program so I looked up different schools and decided to contact Sprott Shaw first because I heard about it frequently.
How was the admissions process?
It was great! I had a lot of guidance from Samantha, my advisor at the Abbotsford campus. I inquired asking if I would be eligible to attend college without a high school diploma and was informed I could apply as a mature student. All of my questions were answered and I was walked through everything from filling out forms to getting my student loan.
What program did you choose and why?
I chose Community Support Worker – Social Services because I have always wanted to help people. Growing up as a transgender child, I had received a lot of help from people and I wanted to give back to the community. There have also been many instances of a lack of support so I’d like to be the change too. I often found myself being a strong support system for my friends and always try to help those who need it so I thought; let’s do what I love for a living.
What was the environment like during your time at Sprott Shaw College?
It’s all online during the pandemic but it is really working out for me. My classmates are all supportive and welcoming and my instructor, Shirley, is a gem. I look forward to attending class every morning which is a feeling I’ve never felt before.
If you could give advice to someone coming to Sprott Shaw, what would you say?
Don’t stress yourself out. If you’re too stressed, you’ll burn out fast. Take it easy and take notes.
Alex Bellavance
Community Support Worker – Social Services
Abbotsford Campus
