Before applying to Camosun College, Alana Armstrong had been working as a Registered Massage Therapist for 16 years when she took time off to care for some family members who had become ill.

The support and kindness of the health care assistants who worked with her family inspired her to consider a career in the field. Alana made the decision to go to Camosun part-time while she continued to work as a registered massage therapist.

“Camosun is a great college. Coming in as an adult learner, Camosun provided me with the flexibility I was looking for.”

As a part-time student, Alana has had the same opportunities as full-time students gaining hands-on experience in the field while getting a strong foundation in the classroom. With a variety of courses and three practicum placements, students benefit from a well-rounded program.

After enrolling in the Health Care Assistant program, Alana was even more motivated by the encouragement she received from the teaching staff.

“I was so moved by the unexpected support from the staff when I first entered the program. I didn’t expect it. The Health Care Assistant program is providing valuable learning experiences.”

With health-care professionals being in-demand throughout the province, Alana is confident that once her program is complete, she will be able to work anywhere in B.C. The government has provided public post-secondary institutions like Camosun College with funding for additional education spaces in health programs annually since 2008, with funding to date totaling more than $16 million, creating almost 2,000 student spaces.

Having experienced first-hand the important work a health care assistant does, Alana is looking forward to providing support to people using her skills as a massage therapist and as a health care assistant.

“This is my opportunity to give back to other B.C. families.”

Learn more about B.C. post-secondary student success stories.