Hi Tia! What were you doing before you attended CNC? 

I was a stay-at-home mom to two beautiful children. My daughter was chronically ill, and I had a very supportive team of nurses who helped guide me in caring for an ill child. It was this team of nurses who inspired me to go back to school and pursue a nursing education. 

How did you hear about CNC and what made you decide to study at the college?  

I chose CNC as it was close to home, had small class sizes, and was a good choice for my lifestyle. Attending a larger college or university in a metropolis is not always the best option for students.  

For myself, staying close to home, my community, and the land was what was important. I also tried to do online adult upgrading. However, it was not the right choice for me. I often felt I had questions, with no one to answer them. I knew attending an in-person class, with instructors and classmates to lean on, would help me become successful. 

How has your education at CNC helped you in your career?   

I completed my BC Adult Graduation Diploma and Years 1 and 2 of the Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NCBNP) with CNC in Quesnel. I then earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from UNBC South-Central, in the same community. 

My education helped me become confident in the work I was doing. I’m unsure if I would have been successful in a larger setting. The nursing program provides so many opportunities and options when it comes to working in a health setting. You do not need to work in a hospital, and I am so happy I found community health.   

What do you do now?  

I am a Home and Community Nurse for the Lhtako Dene Nation, south of Quesnel. I have worked in seven Indigenous communities so far, and I am very proud to have found my way back to my home community.  

Have you been involved with CNC since you graduated?   

I have been invited back to the campus on a few occasions, whether it be to give a nursing alumni acceptance speech for the new graduating class or to attend a class as a presenter. My children have been invited to do traditional dancing as well.  

“The opportunities to stay connected to your community
and learn from each other help to make CNC a special place.”  

What is your fondest memory of CNC?   

The friends I made became lifelong friends. We completed our nursing education together, and they became a beautiful support system in my life.   

How do you see your studies at CNC translating into your future goals and aspirations?   

The Academic Upgrading program was the start of my nursing career. My training provided me with a strong foundation.  

I hope to attend UNBC at the CNC/UNBC Quesnel campus again, for more educational opportunities. I’m still choosing which path I want to take, and I know with my education, I can pursue so many opportunities.   

Perhaps one day, I can be the nurse who teaches the students in Indigenous health and bring forth my own living experiences when fostering the connection between Indigenous and Western health care. 

... and yes, I would recommend CNC and UNBC to other students. I'm even encouraging my son to apply to CNC! 

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The B.C. Labour Market Outlook: 2023 Edition predicts that the health care and social assistance industry will generate the most job openings over the next decade. Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses are high opportunity occupations, with 24,770 job openings forecasted between 2023-2033, the most of any care occupation. 

Curious to learn more about CNC’s Nursing pathways? Visit our program pages or speak to a Future Student Advisor. 

Did you know that… CNC has its own full-service and free-of-charge medical clinic and mental health counselling office for CNC students and staff? Care is provided in the clinic, by phone or by video chat.