Thank You!

Conestoga students come from all walks of life and for many, attaining a post-secondary education is a financial challenge.  Your support of Conestoga’s student awards program provides them with the financial assistance students need to pay tuition, purchase books for class, pay for transportation to and from school, and to successfully complete their education.

We would like to share some stories of hope and opportunity with you, to demonstrate the impact you, our donors, have had through the gift of education.

When you give the gift of education you give:
OPPORTUNITY
SELF-WORTH
SUCCESS
A BRIGHT FUTURE

A Brighter Future

For Haben, education means the opportunity to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse, an opportunity that would not have been possible if she had not left her home and family in Eritria, Africa for a new life in Canada.  Haben’s first year at Conestoga was difficult as she supported herself and learned technology she had not had access to at home.  She was recently recognized with an award for volunteerism. “I enjoy coming to Conestoga,” says Haben.  ”I enjoy the freedom of being a student, and the choices you have to improve your life and become somebody.  This is the path for my future and it is something I did not have before. Anything is possible as long as you work hard for it!”

Success

Coming from a low-income family, Amanda is dependent solely upon her own income and student loans.  She commutes an hour each way every day, works part-time and somehow manages to make it all come together.  “Worrying about financial burden is extremely troubling and creates barriers in my ability to move forward.  Donated support makes pursuing my education – and furthermore, my dream –one step closer. I truly appreciate receiving this award.”

Self Worth

For Bridgette, receiving a student award gave her a higher level of financial stability and validation that her choice to enrol in Conestoga’s Computer Programmer/Analyst program was the right one.  Her road will be full of opportunity as long as she continues to invest in herself and her education.  “The fact that people who I have never met are willing to grant me this honour confirms for me that my choices have brought me to an important place and time.  This is a clear statement that Conestoga students and graduates are worth investing time and money in.

Opportunity

James is a single-father and a full-time student.  The award he received came at a particularly trying time.  Returning to school as a second career student, after 18 years in business, has been challenging.  “Sometimes, or shall I say many times, I’ve just wanted to pack in and quit, but it’s reasons like my little girl and this generous award, that helps me carry on this new journey.  I will be sure to pay it forward when I’m able to, and this kindness will now forever by part of my thoughts when I see someone in need.”