Success Stories

Here’s What Discovery Community College Learners Have to Say…

“As a mother of two with a passion for helping others, I decided to return to school to gain the education, skills, and confidence needed to turn that passion into a meaningful career. Discovery Community College provided a supportive learning environment that helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Balancing family responsibilities, coursework, and practicum placements was not always easy, but each challenge helped strengthen my confidence and belief in myself. Completing my practicum and supporting individuals through compassionate, trauma-informed care showed me that I can make a positive difference in my community. My experience at DCC was truly inspiring and life-changing.”

Devangini Patel – Community Support Worker Graduate, Surrey

“I enrolled at Discovery Community College with one goal in mind: to make a difference in the lives of others and help people find their own path toward healing. Throughout the program, I gained valuable knowledge, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the importance of personal growth and resilience.

Balancing the demands of school with a daily commute from Maple Ridge to Chilliwack was challenging, and there were moments when I questioned whether I could continue. With the support of my instructor and classmates, I persevered and discovered strength I didn’t know I had. My advice to others is simple: don’t give up. Keep moving forward, because you are capable of more than you think.”

Tina Erickson – Social & Community Service Worker Graduate, Surrey

“Attending Discovery Community College was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. While I always had a passion for helping others, the program gave me the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to support individuals facing challenges such as mental health concerns, homelessness, and social isolation.

Through classroom learning and my practicum experience, I developed strong communication skills and learned the importance of empathy, patience, and treating people with dignity and respect. The experience helped me grow both personally and professionally and confirmed that I had chosen the right career path in community support.”

Nola Tyrell – Community Support Worker Graduate, Surrey

“Growing up with ADHD, school was never easy, and balancing my studies while working seven days a week to support myself made the journey even more challenging. Despite the obstacles, I was determined to create a better future and gain the skills needed to build a meaningful career.

One of my proudest accomplishments was maintaining strong academic performance while managing work and personal responsibilities. Through perseverance, self-advocacy, and determination, I learned that success isn’t about having a perfect path. It’s about continuing to move forward, believing in yourself, and refusing to let challenges define your potential.”

Dustin Zahorejko – Social & Community Service Worker Graduate, Surrey

“Returning to school after 27 years was a major decision, but my desire to help others and build a meaningful career in healthcare inspired me to take the leap. Discovery Community College provided a supportive and engaging learning environment that helped me develop new skills, embrace technology, and gain the confidence to succeed as an adult learner.

While balancing family responsibilities and adapting to online learning came with challenges, each obstacle helped me grow stronger and more determined. My experience at DCC was both rewarding and transformative, and I am proud to begin this new chapter in healthcare. To anyone considering a career change or return to school: it’s never too late to follow your passion and create new opportunities for yourself.”

Myla Pereira – Health Care Career Access Program Graduate, Surrey

“As a single mother returning to school at 53, I wanted to create a more secure future for my son while proving that it is never too late to pursue your goals. Discovery Community College provided a supportive environment where I gained the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills needed to begin a meaningful new career.

The personal growth I experienced throughout this journey is the accomplishment I am most proud of. With the support of my instructors and classmates, I not only graduated with confidence but also secured a full-time Education Assistant position before completing my program. My advice to anyone considering going back to school is simple: don’t let fear or age define your limits. You are capable of creating a future beyond what you imagined.”

Gina Leung – CSW, Education Assistant & Mental Health Graduate, Surrey

“Attending Discovery Community College was a life-changing experience that gave me the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to begin a meaningful career helping others. Through my programs and practicum experience, I learned how to support individuals with compassion, respect, and professionalism while building the confidence to make a positive difference in my community.

My greatest inspiration has been my son, whose journey motivated me to better understand and support individuals with diverse needs. With the encouragement of my family and the guidance of my instructors, I was able to achieve my goals and discover a career that truly reflects my passion for helping others. Discovery Community College prepared me for a rewarding future serving others with dignity, respect, and compassion.”

Anum Jilani – Community Mental Health & Education Assistant Graduate, Surrey

“Before enrolling at Discovery Community College, I was a full-time stay-at-home mom searching for a new direction and a way to turn my passion for helping others into a meaningful career. The Community Support Worker program helped me discover that passion while building the skills, confidence, and knowledge I needed to pursue it.

Balancing school with parenting and family responsibilities was one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced. There were moments of self-doubt, but with the support of my instructors and the DCC community, I learned just how resilient and capable I am. Graduating wasn’t just about earning a diploma. It was about becoming a stronger version of myself and proving that with determination and support, anything is possible.”

Haley Jean Burnett – Community Support Worker Graduate, Prince George

“I began the Education Assistant program while on maternity leave, caring for my three sons and balancing family responsibilities at home. Inspired by my husband’s educational journey, I decided to invest in myself and pursue a meaningful career helping students succeed.”

“Balancing school, practicum, and family life wasn’t easy, but each challenge helped me grow in confidence and resilience. One of the proudest moments of my journey came when I was invited to interview with a school district before I had even completed my program.”

“Today, I am applying the skills I learned at Discovery Community College in a real educational setting, supporting students and making a positive impact. This experience proved that it’s never too late to pursue your goals and create new opportunities for yourself and your family.”

Ma Aiza Sy – Education Assistant Graduate, Nanaimo

“Ten years after immigrating to Canada and leaving behind my career as a Registered Midwife, I decided to pursue my dream of returning to nursing. While working as a Health Care Aide, raising my daughter, and supporting my family, I took the next step toward rebuilding my healthcare career.”

“Returning to school wasn’t easy, but every challenge strengthened my confidence and reminded me why I started. Through hands-on clinical placements and supportive instructors, I gained valuable experience and grew into the nurse I always hoped to become.”

“Graduating as a Practical Nurse in Canada represents years of sacrifice, resilience, and determination. Discovery Community College gave me the confidence, education, and support to achieve a goal that once felt out of reach.”

Luwalhati Paule – Practical Nurse Access Graduate, Nanaimo
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