Katrina Transforms Her Life to Work with Children/Youth with Addictions

In celebration of our convocation 2023, and the opportunity for us to finally be together and celebrate in person after three years, we asked our graduates to share their Anderson College experience.

Asking, “How has Anderson College changed your life?” prompted over a hundred submissions … this is one of those extraordinary student stories.

We hope this reflection moves you, as it has our Anderson family, and inspires you to ever embrace the career and life you imagine and, truly, deserve.
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Reflecting on how Anderson College has changed my life brings me so much joy. At the beginning of my recovery journey, I knew I wanted to do something with my life that would benefit me, keep me busy and make me happy. The best feeling in the world is knowing that you’re accomplishing something important.

“The program was life changing for me because of the unconditional love and support I received from my instructor and classmates.”

I chose the Child and Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker program at the Windsor campus because my dream is to work with youth and adults suffering with the illness of addiction. Learning about the rest was just a bonus for me, especially because when I was starting the program, I was pregnant with my first child. Going through the program allowed me to mix my education with my past experiences.

The program was life changing for me because of the unconditional love and support I received from my instructor and classmates. Despite coming from different backgrounds, we clicked so deeply that it made us help and support each other so we could succeed together.

“Thank you, Anderson College, my instructor, and my classmates for making it possible and creating an everlasting change in my life!”

I struggled with my memory after an overdose during my active addiction, which made even simple tasks a challenge. Being pregnant and knowing I would have to do everything on my own was also daunting. My instructor helped me in ways I’ll never forget. I’ll never forget the encouragements, so I wouldn’t give up, the tears and hugs, and countless emails. Would I have been able to follow my dreams if not for the people who decided to have similar dreams as me, and the instructor who decided to come teach that program had not started just before I signed up? I’m not so sure.

I also made a lifelong friend. Someone who still helps and supports me with things every day, who bakes me cakes for my birthday and spoils my daughter. If it wasn’t for the love I received in that school, there’s a possibility I wouldn’t be where I am today.

I learned so much. I finally feel important, like I achieved greatness – striving while being in recovery, being a single mother, and finally getting the title Child and Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker. Thank you, Anderson College, my instructor, and my classmates for making it possible and creating an everlasting change in my life!

Katrina M.

If you felt inspired by Katrina’s story and are looking to launch a career focused on helping others, you can click to learn more about our Child & Youth Care With Addictions Support Worker program. Or if you have other interests, you can explore one of our other 30+ leading-edge programs.

When you’re ready to train and embrace the next level of your career, we can help you navigate the steps along the way. Book your virtual appointment with one of our supportive admissions advisors today and let’s get you started, shall we?