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Student Interviews

Graduate PhotoGraduate Mary Lou Gould

Mary Lou's transcription and computer experience helped her get hired at the Department of Justice as a Mikmaq Court Translator.

The Experience

  • Q. What drew you to the programs at CD-ED?
    • “I wanted to pursue a diploma program at CD-ED because of the career opportunity and the easy access I would have to do my work instead of going out to go to school; [it was on] my time and my hours; plus I strongly believe that everyone should have an opportunity to further their education and CD-ED provides that for people with kids.”
  • Q. I hear you've recently graduated from another program while taking this course from us. What made you decide to take two courses at once?
    • “I just graduated from an Early Childhood Education program in Truro and took the course part time for 4 years. I found it very difficult to travel back and forth but I did it. As for taking the medical office administration program at the same time, I wanted to open more avenues as to where I can apply for employment – not only to better myself, but to provide for all my children.”
  • Q. Tell me how the experience of taking a home-study course from CD-ED was for you.
    • “The experience for me taking a course from CD-ED has been very pleasant, the instructors are very helpful and the course material is clear and to the point.”
  • Q. What was the highlight of the last year for you?
    • “The highlight of my year was for me was my graduation and for me to finally get my diploma. The funny thing about that was I left the diploma in Truro.”

Studying

  • Q. How did you balance school and family?
    • “I have a wonderful companion and very good children, I had a lot of help from Perry, who helped the children with homework, lunch and took really good care of them while I went away to go to school. Without him, I don't think that I could have gotten this far because, believe me, there were times that I felt like giving up. But he or the kids didn't let me.”

After Graduation

  • Q. Can you tell me about your job, and how your experience at CD-ED is helping you with it?
    • “Right now I am employed with the Department of Justice, court services division as a Mikmaq Court Translator; I feel that because of CD-ED and the courses they provide I was able to display on my resume just exactly what I can do and what my capabilities will be when I am done with this course.”

On a Personal Note

  • Q. You're a local student, and unlike most of our students, you've met your instructors. How would you describe them?
    • “All of the instructors I have met at CD-ED have been very helpful, cheerful and have a positive attitude towards giving me the help that I need.”
  • Q. Just one more question. Do you have any advice for students taking a course from CD-ED?
    • “For students who are taking a course from CD-ED, my advice is never be afraid to ask because everyone I've met so far at CD-ED has been more then helpful and very friendly. So, speaking as a mother of 7, if I could do this so can you. Education is very important in life and I hope that everyone sticks to it even if the going gets tough.”