Jessica’s Story: Overcoming Challenges, Achieving Dreams, and Giving Back

For many students, high school is a time of growth, exploration, and envisioning the future. For Jessica, those years at W.J. Mouat Secondary were a mix of academic ambition, personal challenges, and big dreams. She did well in most subjects, particularly enjoying business and science courses, and was originally drawn to a career in nursing. Yet, unlike many of her peers, Jessica lacked the same support systems in place to pursue post-secondary education.

Raised by a single parent in a low-income household, Jessica was the first in her immediate family to pursue post-secondary education. Applying to schools, selecting programs, and navigating the post-secondary system felt daunting, and the dream of higher education seemed almost out of reach.

THE IMPACT OF A STUDENT AWARD

Determined not to let obstacles stop her, Jessica learned about Abbotsford Community Foundation’s (ACF) Student Awards Program in Grade 12. At first, she hesitated to apply, doubting she would qualify. “I wasn’t a straight A student and had spent years in learning assistance,” she recalls. “I didn’t think I was deserving of an award.”

Despite her doubts, she applied and on the day of her high school graduation, Jessica was both shocked and thrilled to hear her name called as the recipient of the Optimist Club of Abbotsford Award. “It was incredible,” she says. “Even though it only covered a portion of my tuition, it gave me that extra push of encouragement. It showed me that someone believed in me and my potential.”

PURSING EDUCATION AND DISCOVERING PASSIONS

With the support of her award, Jessica attended the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). She initially applied to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program but was not accepted, prompting a pivot to the Bachelor of Business Administration, and eventually to a Bachelor of Arts. “It was a reminder that education, and life in general, is not always linear,” she reflects.

Along the way, Jessica gained hands-on experience through UFV’s Co-operative (Co-op) Education program, completing three work terms with UFV’s Career Centre and a Communications practicum with Abbotsford Community Foundation. In 2019, she proudly earned her Bachelor of Arts degree, an achievement made even more meaningful as a first-generation learner. She loved her time at UFV, highlighting the small class sizes, supportive faculty, and student services that helped her successfully navigate post-secondary life.

BUILDING A CAREER AND SUPPORTING STUDENTS

After completing her work terms and practicum placement, Jessica continued her work with UFV and ACF, channeling her passion for supporting students. Today, she has been with UFV for over a decade and remains actively involved with ACF, helping manage their social media and blog communications. “Looking back, it feels full circle,” she says. “I know what it’s like to need support, and now I get to be a part of providing that for students facing similar challenges.”

Building on this experience, Jessica is excited to keep growing her career in post-secondary education and plans to pursue a master’s program in the near future. She looks forward to continuing her work at UFV, supporting the university’s mission of engaging learners, transforming lives, and building community. Her story reflects the same spirit of generosity that supported her early on, showing how an investment in students can ripple outward.

GRATITUDE FOR THE SUPPORT THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE

Reflecting on her journey, Jessica is thankful for the people and programs that made her education achievable. “I’m so grateful to my husband, family, friends, and mentors, as well as the donors who funded my award. Their belief in me made all the difference,” she shares. Her experience highlights the transformative power of student awards, not just as financial support, but as encouragement and validation that students are capable of achieving their dreams. By investing in students, donors help young people overcome challenges, explore their potential, and grow into leaders committed to giving back.

To learn more about how the Student Awards Program continues to support graduating students in Abbotsford, click here.