Lifelong learners benefit from student awards

Published on September 04, 2024

Many students arrive at NAIT with prior education, careers and experience, making them some of the most focused and dedicated students. As mature students, they often have spouses, families and other responsibilities. Student awards can provide a lifeline for these students and give them assistance beyond the financial. Below we hear from a few students on how student awards enhanced their educational journeys.

Ronnie Mellow

Before attending NAIT, Ronnie Mellow’s previous jobs – which included roles as assistant store manager/shift supervisor, security guard, and junior brokerage partner – put him in contact with many people working in various trades.

“I was able to observe the work they did and get a feel for what each entailed. This came in handy when I was deciding on a new career path.”

Ronnie chose to learn about electrical installations technology and further research led him to NAIT once he discovered that, “NAIT offers leading programs with top tier instructors who have real world experience.”

During the 2023-24 academic year, Ronnie’s hard work resulted in him being named to the Dean’s Honour Roll for both semesters. He also received a Homes by Avi Diploma Entrance Bursary - BILD Alberta Scholarships for Construction Careers.

“I went back to school after about 12 years in the workforce and since I started my program, I haven’t been working. So, this award has created a lot of ease for me and has let me continue to focus on my program.

"If I could talk directly with the donors, I would say thank you for deciding to help pave the road for us up-and-coming workers in our chosen industries. Your consideration is valued more than can be described.”

Odessa Derla

Odessa Derla was among the 4,085 students who walked across the convocation stage in June 2024. She completed her Hospitality Management diploma but has gained much more than that during her time at NAIT.

Previously, she worked in Dubai for 12 years before moving to Edmonton with her then-15-year-old son to attend NAIT’s Hospitality Management program to complement her experience as a commercial cook.

“Going back to school was a 360-degree shift after being in the workforce so long. Fitting in classes from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., homework and assignments, part-time work, and being a single mom was not a walk in the park.”

Thankfully, Odessa received 4 student awards during her 2 years at NAIT.

“Receiving student awards motivated me to stay consistent, work towards my goals and make the most of the opportunity to be a student again. During my time at NAIT, I grew academically and personally, and my fellow students became my support system.”

Currently Odessa works full-time as a hotel night auditor and part-time at the Commonwealth Stadium (Go Elks!). She dreams of someday owning a small eatery or bake shop and wants to give back to the community.

“This student award experience has been imprinted on me. I know, in the future, I will be a donor and support students as they strive achieve their own dreams.”

Maranda Martiniuk

“I knew that some, if not most, of my school expenses would be covered. This award also improved my mental health as I did not have to worry about covering those expenses and I could focus more on my schoolwork – which is very important to me.”

Maranda has also been investing in her NAIT network by building relationships with her instructors and classmates. She is set to graduate in December 2024 and is looking forward to working in the interior design industry.