Vicky MacPherson
Vicky is a graduate of the Workplace Essential Skills and Training (WEST) Program. Through her training in our program, Vicky discovered she had a passion for working with children. She did numerous work experiences at daycares within the community where she received excellent recommendations. With the assistance and support of the WEST Faculty, Vicky enrolled in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Assistant program at Vancouver Island University. She is currently working full-time as an ECE and loves it!
Andre (Andy) Montenegro, Brazil
This university has an excellent reputation in Canada. Their MBA program is accredited by ACBSP, which reinforces its seriousness. Also, there is an option that you can add some classes to obtain a dual degree. And the program price matches my budget. I believe that the teachers’ support and availability have been the most important part of my ESL studies at VIU. To be honest, if you need support, there will always be someone to help you. And my advice for new students joining VIU? Remember that you are living in another culture, and you are interacting with people from all over the world. Thus, always be open-minded and respectful. It will prevent you from being biased or worse. Of course, you need to be focused on your studies, but try your best to enjoy your stay as much as you can. Vancouver Island is a beautiful region, and there are many activities to do. (Grad Prep, MBA)
Jeff Bolter
“I had many obstacles coming back to school with a Military background into a civilian educational environment. It was tough and the age difference was a big challenge. The staff and instructors were real and very positive. They genuinely wanted to help and see me succeed. So far I’ve been successful and have an A – A+ average!”
Peter Moon
“Making the choice to come to VIU in ABE has totally changed my life and my future. This decision is the best decision I have made for myself and for my family. The instructors are very helpful and very supportive.”
Darlene
Darlene is a graduate of the Workplace Essential Skills and Training (WEST) Program. She successfully completed the two-year program and learned a lot of valuable skills. She also obtained numerous certificates (Food Safe, Serving It Right, World Host, and WHMIS) that helped her secure permanent employment. She participated in an independent work experience at Superstore in Nanaimo, and because of her excellent work habits and skills, she was offered a position in the Deli Department. She loves her position and is grateful to the WEST program for the opportunities it has afforded her.
Jason Doan, Vietnam
Grad Prep is not simply an ESL course. It prepared me with academic language skills, such as writing in APA style and skimming readings, and that helped with every assignment and group project in my MBA program. I believe this course is very useful and necessary for international students who want to pursue higher level studies in Canada. (Grad Prep + MBA)
Justin Cuppen
“I took several courses in ABE. However, it was English 067 with Brendan Derby that stands out for me. I could not have passed first year English if it wasn’t for doing this course with Brendan. In fact, his English 067 allowed me to do well in other subject areas beyond first year as well. He doesn’t just give a theory, but teaches students how to apply it.”
Sachiko Ishibashi, Japan
My experiences in the ESL program and Bachelor of Tourism Management in VIU have been fascinating. The ESL program was the hardest but a valuable experience which helped me to succeed in my academic studies. For Tourism, each instructor was very knowledgeable and skillful with a passion in their specialized field. Every minute in all my classes was remarkable. (Academic Preparation and Bachelor of Tourism Management)
David Jemphrey
David first approached the Career and Academic Preparation Department of VIU in January 2010. He was working as a carpet cleaner and was frustrated with his level of English and his current employment prospects. He felt that he wouldn't be able to learn in classroom setting so he opted to work one to one with a volunteer tutor from our program. He had been in a special ed school in Ireland and was lacking confidence in his abilities and in himself. Since then he has enrolled in and completed the Employment and Life Skills Training program at VIU, the fundamental classes at VIU and enrolled in English 10. David's goal is to get secure employment in the healthcare field and to enrol in the Resident Care Attendant program or something similar. In the past year he has worked as a volunteer in a home for seniors David's tutors and instructors have all been highly impressed with his progress, his determination and perseverance. David and his tutors/instructors have agreed to be contacted, should you decide to write about him. David is a wonderful (ongoing) success story and is a great role model for other adult learners who have been told that they would not amount to much.
Frank Osawamick
“ABE helped me gain the confidence I need to pursue further education. Attending ABE math and English provided me with the foundation of a new perspective of studying. To anyone continuing their education, I recommend ABE before their degree of study (as a refresher).”
Constanza Eganz, Chile
I chose to study at VIU because their courses have a direct link with the professional world and the labour market. My advice to new students is to follow the rhythm of the ESL classes, perform the assigned tasks and take advantage of the tools that the Learning Centre offers. (University Preparation)
Dan Grise
“VIU’s ABE program really helped further develop my skills. Instructors are easy to get along with, and they really care about me and my needs. The instructors helped me get through all my courses.”
Saeed Tehrani, Iran
I chose to study at VIU because the city is quiet and so beautiful. The people are super friendly and they treated me warmly. I would encourage students to think of their ESL studies as an opportunity. Studying ESL at VIU has prepared me for my academic course. (Grad Prep + MBA)
Josh Pearson
“VIU’s ABE Program creates the perfect learning environment for the returning student. Before ABE, I’ve never had instructors who were so invested in my education.”