Determined to Succeed: Scholarship and Bursary recipient’s hard work pays off

Jessica Garrett has always been passionate about construction.

The Niagara Falls resident pursued her interest in Grade 12 through a Specialist High Skills Major in construction, during which she helped build a home for Habitat for Humanity. Following high school, she enrolled in Niagara College’s Construction Techniques program to explore opportunities in the field. After successfully completing the program, she worked for a year and later enrolled in the College’s Construction Engineering Technology program to further develop her skills. “I have always loved construction, learning how things were built and how they work,” Garrett said. “I enjoy being able to use a large variety of skills such as math and writing, and the different challenges the field presents.” But it hasn’t always been easy to follow her dreams. Garrett encountered sexism due to her size and gender, while pursuing her interest in construction. She faced financial challenges, living on her own since the age of 18 and working two jobs to pay her tuition while completing her first program at the College. Her greatest challenge was during her first year as a college student. An abusive relationship left her with trauma and physical disabilities which required her to use a cane and, for months, a wheelchair. While, at times, she felt like giving up, she went through therapy and continued her education in addition to working a part-time job. Last spring, Garrett was awarded for her determination to succeed, when she became the first recipient of Niagara College’s Women in Construction Faculty Award. The new scholarship is specifically designated for a female student in one of the College’s construction programs and encourages women in the field to persevere. Garrett also received a bursary to help offset costs associated with her studies. “Receiving those awards meant a lot to me. It helped ease my financial stresses which allowed me to focus more on my academic goals,” she said. “It also encouraged me to push myself even more and proved that my hard work was valuable. Scholarships and bursaries truly make more than a financial impact in a student’s life.” Now that she has fully recovered, the 22 year old hopes her story will inspire or help others. “Even with all of these obstacles, I managed to overcome them and succeed,” Garrett said. “It’s important to recognize that your challenges will often make you and your dreams stronger, as well as confirm your path to your individual success.” After graduating in June 2019 with a Construction Engineering Technology diploma, Garrett was hired full time as a Civil Engineering Technologist at Associated Engineering, where she first began working part time as a student. She said that the best parts of her job so far are the great people she works with and the trust they show in her through the responsibilities she is given. “I had a great experience at Niagara College. The faculty are amazing and truly care about everyone’s personal success,” she said. “Their desire to see us succeed and secure jobs that we love is what helped me gain the employment I have now.”

‘‘Receiving those awards meant a lot to me. It helped ease my financial stresses which allowed me to focus more on my academic goals.’’ – Jessica