Jessica Wheaton is a second-generation NBCC student and the proud recipient of a 2024 Alumni Family Scholarship, an annual award that supports and encourages future generations of NBCC alumni, generously sponsored by TD Insurance.
In her scholarship application, Jessica Wheaton described her mother, Tanya Wheaton, as a total superhero.
When Tanya Wheaton first embarked on her NBCC journey, she held a full-time job and was doing her best to balance work commitments and her responsibilities as a single parent. Despite her busy schedule, Tanya chose to bet on herself, enrolling in NBCC’s part-time online Educational Assistant program, graduating with honours in 2022.
“As a mature learner with a home, bills, and a family, I was able to continue working full-time while meeting my own goals,” said Tanya. “I wanted to become an Educational Assistant to work with children in hopes of making a difference in their education. I love my career, and while it can be challenging, it is very rewarding and fulfilling.”
Watching her mother conquer school reignited Jessica’s own educational dreams. After putting her studies on hold because of financial barriers, Jessica knew it was time to follow in her mother’s footsteps.
“Eventually, I had to make a decision on whether I wanted to continue my mundane employment or go back to school,” shared Jessica. “My fear wanted to overpower all decision-making abilities, but I was reminded of how my mother showed that above all, that this was possible”.
Inspired by her mother’s journey, Jessica enrolled in NBCC’s Mechanical Engineering Program and began her studies in Fall 2023 at the Saint John (Grandview) Campus. Jessica and Tanya’s success is a true testament to the transformative power of education and family support.
Two more NBCC Alumni Family Scholarships are available to current students who are family members of NBCC Alumni. Learn more.
