An Interview with Norrielynn
Norielynn first came to Canada as a temporary worker in 2008. She returned in 2012, this time as an immigrant with her husband and four children. After connecting with the Algonquin College Experienced Worker Centre, she applied for a Second Career bursary so she could study Practical Nursing—and start a new chapter in her life.
What was your situation when you arrived in Canada?
In the Philippines, I had a psychology degree and a career in human resources. I had no education here in Canada, though, and looked for work for eight months without any success. That’s when my sister convinced my to attend Algonquin’s Pre-Health Sciences program.
How did you find out about the Experienced Worker Centre?
It was luck! I was walking to class and saw the signage, so I stopped in to ask what they did. I had no idea what a ‘second career’ was—but I knew I wanted to get into the Practical Nursing program. I had been out of the workforce for nearly a year, so I didn’t have the money to continue my education. When Ian Paul, the Intake and Referral Consultant, told me about the Second Career bursary that would help pay for my tuition and books, that really opened the door for me.
How did the EWC help you get into the program?
You need to meet a lot of criteria to get the Second Career bursary. It’s a very long process, but Ian walked me through every step of the way. He helped me look up everything I needed for my application, like labour market information, and helped me understand what they were asking for about my work experience and training. He also connected me to the Employment Ontario officer who submitted my application.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to work full-time after I graduate. Once I’ve saved enough money I’ll go into the Registered Nurse program, which will give me a better salary and broader scope of practice.
Where do you think you’d be right now if not for the EWC?
I would not be studying nursing—or I’d be in huge debt with student loans. I’m so blessed that I found the EWC. When you’re new to Canada, trying to get back into the workforce is really hard. The support they’ve given me has been so valuable, not just for me but my entire family.
