Transforming Life at 59: Mary’s Inspirational Adventure to Become a PSW

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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There are so many ways that Anderson College changed, not only my life but my perspective on life.

When I told my family that I was interested in retraining for a new career at the height of the pandemic, I was met with some skepticism. The last time I was in an academic setting was in the early 80s. I was filled with apprehension.

“Who was I to enrol in a full-time diploma-earning course at 59 years of age during a global pandemic? But going back to school was challenging and empowering.”

Who was I to enrol in a full-time diploma-earning course at 59 years of age during a global pandemic? But going back to school was challenging and empowering. On one hand, I was anxious to pursue my passion for helping those who cannot always help themselves and on the other, it was very intimidating being surrounded by many younger faces.

Everyone at the college contributed to quelling my anxiety. Each person affiliated with Anderson College has been instrumental in my growth and education, from the front receptionist, the recruiter, and my extraordinary teacher to the placement officer who worked to secure a placement of my choice. The employees of Anderson truly care about their students, and it shows.

“I was able to secure a full-time position almost immediately after graduating.”

Due to Anderson’s rigorous programming and excellent placement coordination, I was able to secure a full-time position almost immediately after graduating. This high-quality instruction coupled with compassionate care allowed me to build my confidence to step into my PSW role with ease. Further to the high-quality education that prepared me for this role, I was also able to face my ailing mother’s health with a new level of understanding.

“I can confidently say that in eight short months, my life has changed for the better in so many ways.”

As I was retraining and attending Anderson, my mother’s health declined to the point that she needed support. I was able to face this difficult time with a level of confidence about what was happening to her health and assist my family members in preparing for her death. Anderson College has truly allowed me to understand that we can face difficulties with empathy and a new appreciation for all stages of life and health. I can confidently say that in eight short months, my life has changed for the better in so many ways.

Mary K.

If you felt inspired by Mary’s story and are looking to launch a career focused on helping others, you can click to learn more about our Personal 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?