Message from the Editor

Past editions of "College Matters" have focused on information for preparatory program teachers and administrators. This "College Matters" is launching a new initiative - a focus on the students because they are what really "Matters".

We are presenting profiles on seven students from around the province who started their program this fall. We asked what led them back to school, where they are hoping to go and how they feel as they start this difficult and challenging journey.

They will be interviewed again in January and June to track their personal and educational progress. We hope that you find these profiles interesting and share them with students in your programs. I know as I wrote these profiles I was moved and inspired by their stories and optimism.

Algonquin College - Scott Valois

"I'm more confident in my work and I feel great
knowing I'm on the right track for my future."

Scott left high school after Grade X and has returned to school to make a better life for himself. He felt he could work all his life to make other people rich or to make himself rich. He knows that education is the first step to escaping minimum wage jobs with no benefits.

Scott felt he was too old to go back to high school and after an interview with the Algonquin Academic Referral Centre was particularly pleased he could start immediately at no cost. He is planning to enroll in Small and Medium Business Management, a two year diploma program. He started in LBS 5 and must complete OBS IV communications, computers and math. Already he has completed the computer prerequisite.

He initially felt the two week orientation was a waste of time. He was anxious to get started. Now he appreciates that it helped him get "up to speed" faster especially the math review. He is happy to be in class with others who know why they are there and have goals. He was disappointed that he would not be obtaining a high school diploma, but he is satisfied that he will be getting what he really wants - entry to post secondary.

Scott lives with his girlfriend's parents who are very supportive. He works part time for her father and has been able to reduce his work commitment to Satur- days only. Once he completes his studies his girlfriend will be returning to school. He reads on the bus and has quiet time to study before the others get home.

People in his life are very proud of him. He has discovered he enjoys writing stories about the interesting things that have happened in his life, and his teacher is really encouraging him. His self-esteem and confidence have improved significantly.

Scott is enthusiastic, " I'm more confident in my work and I feel great knowing I'm on the right track for my future." He has clearly made an impression on his teachers, " It is a teacher's pleasure to facilitate and assist a student like Scott who has a lot of potential and just needs to be guided in the right direction. With Scott's enthusiasm and positive attitude, I know he will be successful in whatever he pursues. Keep up the good work Scott!".