A Hard Earned Diploma in Business Administration
June 23, 2021
Colin graduated from high school in 2018. He has cerebral palsy which affects body movement and coordination and, due to his condition, Colin requires ongoing support. Colin was able to gain a limited amount of work experience since graduating and he volunteered for the BC Wheelchair Basketball Association. He enjoys coaching kids and supporting the community.
Colin didn’t have the best high school experience but he knew that in order to obtain employment, he was going to need some further training. Given his previous educational experiences, he was hesitant and worried he might not succeed academically.
Staff at the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre led Colin through a thorough assessment process to determine his vocational needs. He completed a Disability Related Needs Assessment, Psychological-Vocational Assessment and Discovery. He participated in job search workshops, essential skills training, customized employment services and Assistive Technology Support, all of which helped him to determine and develop an education and career plan.
Colin applied for the Business Fundamentals Diploma program at Sprott Shaw College and was admitted to the program in December 2020. His Career Coach assisted him by arranging additional supports from WorkBC Assistive Technology Services through Neil Squire and extra learning supports from Sprott Shaw.
Through hard work and incredible commitment as well as the support provided by WorkBC and by the College, Colin was able to successfully complete his studies and obtain his diploma in Business Administration. He is currently being interviewed for Administrative Assistant positions with local employers and is planning to continue upgrading his skills.
Colin is well on his way towards obtaining meaningful paid employment. In Colin’s words: “I never knew that studying can be so much fun.”
