What were you doing before attending Sprott Shaw College?
I worked at a sporting arena for 16 years, starting from the bottom and working my way up through different roles. It was an awesome experience! When the pandemic hit, I took a job at a coffee shop and that’s where everything changed. I started chatting with some Health Care Assistants in the drive-thru almost every day, and their stories really inspired me. That’s when I began looking into a new career.
Why did you choose Sprott Shaw College?
Funny enough, when I enrolled in the HCAP program, I didn’t actually know which school I’d be attending, I thought I still had a few months before starting! But just a couple of weeks into my support work, I was asked if I wanted to start school, and the next thing I knew, I was getting emails and phone calls from Admissions. It ended up being an awesome surprise, Sprott Shaw has been such a great fit, and I’m really glad it worked out the way it did!
How was the admissions process?
It was super easy! Everyone was super nice. I had a couple of phone calls, and the documents were sent straight to my email. Also, the response time to emails with any questions I had was really quick!
What program did you choose and why?
I chose the Health Care Assistant (HCA) program! Before starting, I worked in the kitchens at a children’s health center and a mental health and addictions facility. Even though I wasn’t in a direct care role, just being there and providing meals made me realize how powerful it is to support people in their toughest moments. It really inspired me to do more and make a bigger difference.
What was the environment like during your time at Sprott Shaw College?
The environment at school was super supportive and encouraging. It felt like everyone — from the instructors to my classmates was really there for each other. We all came from different backgrounds, but we shared the same goal, which made it easy to connect and work as a team. Even when things got challenging, it was comforting to know I wasn’t alone and had people cheering me on.
Where was your Practicum & how was it?
The first six weeks, my group was sent to The Summit with Donna! The Summit was a great experience overall the staff was nice and helpful, and the residents were lovely. It’s a very nice facility. The second place we went to was Amica on Gorge also a really nice facility. It was great to see how different companies operate in different ways, but still work toward the same goals. The staff was super nice there too, and I learned a lot during my time.
How long did it take you to find a job after graduation?
I had a position right out of school and was hired at a second location a month later!
Where do you work? And can you explain your duties?
I work in Island Health and also Amica, support clients with personal care like bathing, dressing, toileting, and mobility to help them stay safe and comfortable. I assist during mealtimes, monitor vital signs, and report any health changes to nurses or supervisors. I also provide emotional support and companionship, helping clients feel valued and respected. My role is all about promoting their independence, dignity, and overall well-being.
If you could give advice to someone coming to Sprott Shaw College, what would you say?
Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to ask questions! your instructors are there to help and genuinely want you to succeed. Stay organized, support your classmates, and take things one step at a time. And seriously remember to sleep and stay hydrated! It sounds simple, but being well-rested makes a huge difference when you’re trying to study and absorb everything. Your well-being and mental health matter. Coffee helps, but it’s not always the answer.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Thank you to Karin and Donna! I could not have done it without the support and knowledge I gained from them. Sprott Shaw was a life-changing experience, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Also, thank you to my mom and boyfriend for supporting me in going back to school!
Nicole Morrell
Health Care Assistant