A cross-continental journey, a new culture, and enrolling in a full-time post-secondary program while working and raising a family is enough to overwhelm anyone … but for Kat Mesones, it was also the opportunity of a lifetime.
Originally from Peru, Kat moved to Moncton with her husband and son in January 2021 to attend NBCC after studying remotely for the first semester of her studies. Eighteen months later, as she prepares to graduate from the Business Administration: Management program, Kat feels grateful for everything and everyone that led her to this moment, including family support and her own perseverance.
“When I do something, I need to do it well … I don’t do things halfway,” she said. “I thought, I am here and I need to make the best of this experience.”
From the beginning, Kat knew that her journey to Graduation Day would look different than most. As a mature student with a family to support, she managed her existing consulting business in Peru remotely while working part-time at Mark’s Work Warehouse. Despite facing many obstacles, including English being her second language, Kat excelled academically and positioned herself as a true leader in the classroom.
“My classmates and teachers made me feel welcome and they embraced my differences,” said Kat. “I studied really hard and got good grades. This was in part because of my efforts but also because of how good the teachers are. I have nothing but amazing things to say about my NBCC experience.”
Kat’s hard work paid off. She completed her practicum placement at Mark’s and will soon be moving into a management position at the company.
As she reflects on the last two years, Kat is excited about the future and the strong foundation she and her family have built together.
“Coming here was a life-changing thing for us. It’s like a new life plan,” she said. “It took effort and hours of my sleep because I needed to study, but we are here now, so it was all worth it.”
