Q: What is your name/preferred name?
A: Mikala
Q: What are your pronouns?
A: she/her
Q: What program and year of study are you in at 大发快三平台?
A: I am in my last semester of the Therapist Assistant Diploma
Q: Which campus do you primarily study at?
A: Kelowna
Q: What drew you to that program?
A: The TAD program is a defined diploma program, meaning it is designed and built to direct successful graduates right into the industry. That and the fact that it is a healthcare-oriented program with many different job opportunities (where I wouldn鈥檛 be behind a desk all day) drew me in. I wanted to do something that would be fulfilling and meaningful for myself and to the community. Eventually I would like to work in a pediatric setting, and this is definitely a way that I can achieve those goals.
Q: Why did you choose to study at 大发快三平台?
A: I recently returned from abroad to be near family and to start my post-secondary education. Initially I enrolled at UBCO in a Bachelor of Science Degree and completed the first year but realized that this was not for me. I wanted a program that was well laid-out, and that had a defined career at the end of it. It was my Mom that recommended I look into the TAD program at 大发快三平台 and I am so thankful that I did! 大发快三平台 Kelowna has a brand new health care building and is full of amazing and passionate instructors. I feel more confident with the smaller class sizes and student/instructor relationships that come from that - something I didn鈥檛 feel in the University setting.
Q: What are you looking forward to during your time at 大发快三平台?
A: I am looking forward to my second set of practicum placements, and the engagement in the community that comes with my program. 大发快三平台 is such a supportive school that allows alumni to continue to be a part of the community through research and mentorship opportunities. I am looking forward to staying connected with my instructors, with our guest lecturers, and with my fellow TAs for years to come.
Q: Where is home for you?
A: I currently live in Kelowna but I grew up in Penticton. After high school, I was lucky enough to travel for many years and I look forward to more travel after graduation - once the world opens back up again. For now, the beautiful Okanagan is my stomping grounds.
Q: What鈥檚 the best advice you鈥檝e received?
A: In regards to the program - stay organized, ask questions, and take advantage of all the help available to you - instructors, volunteer opportunities, mental health support, the student union... use it all!
In life, the advice is mental health oriented: 鈥淵ou can drown in an inch of water or in 6 feet, in both you鈥檙e drowning鈥. This pretty much means that sometimes in comparison to others your troubles may seem small - but - they are still valid troubles that affect you. Reach out for help, we are all in this together.
Q: Where are you the happiest?
A: At the top of a mountain, after a great hike up, overlooking the ocean on one side and forest on the other (ideally with my dog by my side). I know that sounds soooo cheesy but, it鈥檚 true!