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Your Stories

Jo’s Story

Jo’s Story

2

“…There are many barriers and obstacles based on attitudes and perceived ideas regarding a person’s capacity, especially regarding health and age. I had been encouraged by others to retire. To let go. To give up…”

When I was asked by Career Development Services to write a testimonial, I felt honoured and privileged to have such an opportunity.

My journey to find a career path began many years ago. I was drawn to the area of social work and completed a BSW degree at Dalhousie. My plan was to eventually do a Master’s Degree. I began working as a social worker in Child Protection Services. I enjoyed working with the families and it was such a rich learning experience on many levels. I had no idea I would enjoy this work as much as I did.

Obstacles continued to stand in the way of taking my next steps in my career. I was coping with the death of my parents. I remember feeling overwhelmed and thinking, “This is a lost opportunity which has now passed”.

In 2011, I was offered a supervisory position. Shortly after, I was hit with a rare life-threatening health issue. My focus switched to managing my health. I wondered if I would ever work again. I needed to revaluate what I could do. Once again, I pulled out my information on Master’s in Social Work programs. Then I called Career Development Services.

At CDS, I met with a career counsellor to explore ideas. We talked about how to re-build myself, my career, and do something that I loved, while maintaining my work-life-balance.

There are many barriers and obstacles based on attitudes and perceived ideas regarding a person’s capacity, especially regarding health and age. I had been encouraged by others to retire. To let go. To give up.

I continued to talk with my career counsellor. I felt heard, supported and encouraged. She valued my skills, experiences, and what I had to offer. She did not focus on what I had lost. She emphasized the importance of following my passion. I took the next scary step and applied for MSW programs. The Admin at CDS even helped me with the technical challenges of sending in the application. I will never forget the day I was accepted into the Social Work and Health Program, Renison College at the University of Waterloo!

I was excited, scared and questioned my ability. I reminded myself that I have a deep desire to help others and I need to honor that vision. The support from the CDS team continued each step of the way.
With tremendous excitement and gratitude, I graduated in 2017! I was hired immediately and now work in the counselling field as a clinical therapist.

As I look back on my journey, the wisdom I would like to share is ‘trust in oneself, follow your inner guidance, and don’t give up – even if there are lots of obstacles and barriers. Make sure you reach out to people who believe in you.’


Jo wanted to share her story with you. Thanks, Jo!

What’s YOUR story?

Stories are powerful. Stories can inspire us and help us to see what is possible.

Here are some prompts to help you tell your story:

  • What has your career journey been like for you?
  • How did you get to where you are now?
  • What obstacles did you have to overcome?
  • Do you have any words of wisdom to share with others?
  • What do you think helped you to stay on track to reach your goal?

Thank you for sharing hope and inspiration with others!

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