My name is Kearsen and I am a single mother of 3. With the help of Career Development Services and SkillsPEI, I am now a graduate of the Accounting Technology program at Holland College! I am writing this testimonial to encourage other parents, single or otherwise, not to give up on their dreams of an education and a career just because they already have children.

Going back to school with 3 children was not easy, in fact it was probably the single most difficult thing I have done in my life. But it was also super rewarding!

Much of my work was as a seasonal worker in the fish plants down East. Going through CDS and applying for SkillsPEI funding, supported me by helping with my daycare cost, travel and 70% of my tuition. I also received grants from the government because I am a single parent, enabling me to pay for the remainder of my courses, books, and supplies, without going into debt.

Since graduation, I have begun working at the Construction Association of PEI, as the Administrator/Accountant and I am working for a better wage, with benefits, and I am able to better provide for my three children. Though it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, I would do it again for my kids in a heartbeat!

Kearsen, CONGRATULATIONS on your graduation & your new career path.
⭐All of us here at CDS wish you the very best!