Grads recognized
NSCC Marconi campus will hold graduation ceremonies Friday
The Marconi campus valedictorians Denise Sonmor and Kaela Ramsay will be honoured for their dedication and hard work in their respected fields on Friday.
The two Cape Bretoners are among some 4,500 Nova Scotia Community College students celebrating their achievements at 18 convocation ceremonies across the province this month.
Sonmor is a mature student enrolled in the continuing care program who wanted a change after working as a medical secretary for several years.
“I love learning and I loved the medical aspect. I loved the psychology aspect as well. There’s a lot of elements of that in caregiving, to factor in the best way to give care by understanding what lies behind sometimes responsive behaviour.”
Ramsay is enrolled in the social services program. She’s been involved extensively in her community by completing service learning projects — including one international project that took her to Ecuador.
Ramsay said the hands-on work she did has prepared her for the future.
“I was reading a lot about service social work. I wanted to do this first because it gave me a chance to apply my learning directly into a field I wanted to have as a career.” NSCC president Don Bureaux said this is an important time for all students and NSCC as a whole.
“When our students succeed, we succeed. It’s important for us to stop and celebrate all that our students have accomplished on their journey with us, and mark the point at which they begin the next chapter of their lives.”
Sonmor and Ramsay have already found success in their chosen paths.
Ramsay is building on her NSCC experience and continuing
her education while Sonmor has accepted a position at the Cove Guest Home in Sydney.
Sonmor also has advice for others who are thinking about returning to school.
“Don’t underestimate your ability and don’t shy away from new opportunities because there’s so many things to learn. Not just subject nature, but learn about yourself. Regardless of age, we all have something to contribute and learn.”
The NSCC Marconi campus graduation ceremonies will begin at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre on Friday.
For dates and times of other convocations across the province, visit NSCC’s website.