“You’re Never Too Old To Learn”
After a 46-year wait, Nancy Davis is the proud owner of a high school diploma
Nancy, 62, joined her fellow adult learning classmates at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) Truro Campus’s convocation ceremony Friday — finishing an academic journey put on hold 46 years ago.
“It was a huge challenge,” said Nancy. “There were times I didn’t know if I would make it, but everyone was incredibly supportive.
“If you want something bad enough, then eventually along the way someone will give you the helping hand you need to fulfill your dreams.”
Nancy’s journey has never been easy.
She wasn’t able to attend school after Grade 9 because the closest school was over an hour away. She went to work instead, doing whatever she could to support herself. It was always a goal to earn her high school diploma, but a series of issues and family obligations prevented her return to school.
In September 2016, Nancy was determined to go back to school, so she enrolled in the Continuing Care Link Program at NSCC where students can complete their High School Graduation Diploma for Adults and earn a certificate as a Continuing Care Assistant (CCA). Nancy traveled more than 70 kilometers each way to the Truro campus daily.
Despite a learning curve and struggle to find the balance between life and school priorities, the first year of the program went very well. In January of 2017 though, Nancy faced her biggest challenge: her husband of 40 years passed away unexpectedly. This tragedy tested Nancy’s determination and resiliency; but, to the awe of those around her, she persevered.
Today, Nancy has her high school diploma and will write the CCA provincial exam in the next few weeks. She plans to be working in health care soon.
Nancy’s advice to anyone going back to school is to keep focused.
“My mother told me that every day you didn’t learn something you’re going backwards. It doesn’t have to be a big thing. It can be a simple thing — something that you didn’t know the day before.”
“You’re never too old to learn. I am 62 years old and I’m ready and excited to start my next chapter.”
If you or someone you know is interested in improving literacy skills, and earning a high school diploma or GED, visit here or call 877–466–7725 (Toll-free).
