Before I began the H.Y.P.E. program I was out of school and working part-time. I was at a point in my life where I was beginning to think about my future. I felt I ultimately had three choices: return to high school, go to college or enter the workforce. Having two children, there were many factors that I needed to take into consideration before making my decision. My children are getting older, so returning to high school and then proceeding to college just seemed [like it would] take too long. Employment wasn't the best choice either, as Grade 10 was my highest completed level of education. After reflecting on my options, I decided that going to college was the best one. Deep down inside I knew that I wanted to go, but didn't have the confidence that I would be successful. I kept asking myself, "How can I get through college if I couldn't even finish high school?" To make a more insightful decision, I decided to meet with an employment counsellor at Rosalie Hall. After explaining my dilemma, she referred me to H.Y.P.E. She explained that it would be a great opportunity to become acquainted with the college system and that the program provided meals and transportation to eliminate barriers. She also informed me that if I decided to go to college I may be eligible for a bursary, which could support me financially.
I began the H.Y.P.E program in July 2008. It has been the most insightful and enhancing experience I've ever had. Not only did the program prepare me for college, but the entire experience changed me as a person. The workshops were informative and the social events allowed for networking with other students as well as staff. Through H.Y.P.E, I met several other students with similar backgrounds to me, many of whom decided to pursue education as well. This left me with much admiration for my peers and slowly I realized that I was quite admirable myself. H.Y.P.E broke down my walls of isolation and provided me with an educational experience I never thought I would have. I left high school pregnant, missing my graduation, graduation trip and prom. Thanks to H.Y.P.E I was able to have a graduation ceremony and a graduation trip to Niagara Falls. I felt that I was making up for many things I had missed out on earlier in my life.
At the end of the six-week program, staff members in the H.Y.P.E program assisted me in my application and transition to Centennial College's Community and Justice Services program. I had a new confidence in myself, as I was proud that I had finally completed something for myself, and H.Y.P.E made it possible.
After beginning college in September, I was presented with a $1,500 bursary from the program to assist me financially in my first year and this financial support was crucial to my success in full-time studies. I was also the recipient of the Verdena Momb Francis Scholarship, which was awarded to the student with the highest cumulative grade point average in the H.Y.P.E program. The scholarship not only assisted me financially, but also gave me confidence in my abilities. H.Y.P.E was a new beginning for me and I thank the program for making me the student I am today. I have successfully completed my first year of full-time studies at Centennial College and I believe this would not have been possible without the H.Y.P.E program. I have a new perspective on life and giving up is no longer an option. H.Y.P.E as reminded me that all things are possible.
Sincerely,
Aneesah Mohammed