Karen’s story

Karen was employed with a local Hamilton company for more than a decade when she was informed that they would be downsizing and relocating. She was given her formal notice.

“I so vividly remember the day my employer told us they were downsizing,” Karen explained. “All I could think was what am I going to do? I am 50 years old and the main supporter of my family. I felt sick inside and completely lost,” she added.

While this was a very difficult time for her, Karen decided to be proactive and found an ad for Good Will Career & Employment Services for resume writing and job search seminars. She cut out the ad and hung it on her fridge as a reminder of hope for her future. She called a couple of days later. Little did she know that call would change her life.

Karen met with a career developer who explained that she would qualify for Second Career funding, a government program for individuals needing support to be prepared for today’s job market. Even though the idea of starting over was intimidating, Karen left feeling hopeful for the first time since being unemployed. Her search for a private career college began.

One day, while searching online, Karen found Anderson College and noted that they accepted students being funded by Second Career. “I completed the information and met with an admissions advisor the next day,” Karen noted with excitement.

Take the “Anderson College Career Discovery Quiz”

When she met with the admissions advisor, the college took the time to learn about Karen’s journey and helped to guide her into the Business Management Program. Karen felt supported by the staff and was confident that this program was exactly what she needed. It was then that she knew she was in the right place and she decided to enroll at the college then and there.

“I was scared and worried as to how I was going to handle school, family and work at my age. The last time I attended college was in 1985,” Karen described with emotion. “I am not going to lie, at times it was difficult, but thanks to the compassion and caring way of the staff and Campus Director, I pushed through and graduated the program with Honours,” she adds. It was a wonderful achievement!

Karen’s biggest accomplishment was attending her graduation ceremony with her three children who had seen her going through this journey. Upon graduating, she was sad to leave the college. “They became family to me,” Karen explained. “Much to my surprise, I was offered a job at the campus. I could not say yes fast enough!” she said with a smile. “During my time (at Anderson) I’ve met many students with similar stories to mine. I have been able to watch their lives change in the most positive way and their confidence grow along their journeys.”

Karen is now an Admissions Advisor at Anderson College and spends her days inspiring others to take the next step to a rewarding career.