From Nigeria to Canada: Chukwuma Persevered and Became a PSW

At Anderson College, we are constantly amazed by the courage of our students, faculty, and staff. In December 2021 we ran a “My Courageous Moment” story-gathering campaign to celebrate our students, their strength, the moments that have defined their lives and the people who have motivated them to overcome and succeed.

In sharing our stories, we realize we are not alone and are often inspired to recognize, or to find, our own extraordinary courage. We hope the following story moves you, as it has our Anderson family.

I always wished to be able to further my studies outside of Nigeria. It was always a dream of mine. In March 2019, I informed my uncle of this dream and shared the challenges I faced due to my limited funds. He assured me that he would assist me in achieving my heartfelt goals. He introduced me to a travel agent, Mr. Godfrey, who resides in Canada and agreed to help me secure admission into Anderson College of Health, Business, and Technology for my postgraduate education.

At first, I was skeptical and thought that applying to a private college might not secure me a visa. That was what most people around me presumed. I applied to the college and secured admission. To commence my visa procedure, I was to travel to Lagos, Nigeria for a medical examination and police certification. However, I became ill and was admitted to a hospital. I also couldn’t make the journey because I had to take care of my mother who was also admitted to the same hospital that I was in, for three months.

“I arrived in Canada in September 2021, where I am now studying Personal Support Worker (PSW) at Anderson College.”

My mother was discharged at the beginning of December 2019, after which I planned to travel to Lagos for the visa-required documents. Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and interstate travel was restricted. I was distraught. I had to defer the admission. I informed Megan William, who is the Senior Admissions Officer at Anderson, of the challenges. She encouraged me to continue the visa process.

In February 2020, the travel ban was relaxed, and I went for the medical examination and police certification. Both activities were successful, and I proceeded to apply for my visa the following month, but the Canadian Embassy wasn’t processing student visas due to the pandemic.

“I guess I can say that I am a testament to not giving up on one’s dreams.”

The delays led to me deferring the admission a second time. My medical examination and police certificate expired. In February 2021, I forged on to conduct another medical examination and police certification. I applied for a visa in March 2021 and, finally, the embassy approved the visa application, and in about a month!

I arrived in Canada in September 2021, where I am now studying Personal Support Worker (PSW) at Anderson College. I guess I can say that I am a testament to not giving up on one’s dreams.

Do not give up on your dreams. No matter the circumstances, never stop moving, hoping, and believing.

Chukwuma O.

Considering how you too can align your interests, talents and passion with a purposeful career? Take our 4-min “Career Discovery Quiz” and find out what positions can take your life to new levels.

To learn more, specifically, about our Personal Support Worker program or any of our other 30+ leading-edge programs to propel you toward success, book a virtual appointment with our Admissions Team today! We’re here to help you every step along the way.