“It turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made”: Brittany Bowden’s NSCC Story
Life-changing decisions
After graduating from university in 2011 while living in Halifax, Brittany Bowden had difficulty finding meaningful employment. As a member of the African Nova Scotian community, she found it challenging to advance beyond entry-level positions. Just before the pandemic, she moved home to Pictou County to care for her mother, and her decision to enroll in the Office Administration program at NSCC’s eCampus changed everything.
Graduating from the program with Honours in 2023, Brittany says, “It turned out to be the best decision I've ever made. Everything from meeting the overwhelmingly supportive employees and peers, to the incredible opportunities I've been given to network, contribute to my community and broaden my skills, has been life-changing.”
Breaking down financial barriers
At the encouragement of her instructors, Brittany pursued her second NSCC program, enrolling in the Business Administration program in fall of 2023. Brittany was facing a lot of stress around juggling work, finances, and school. While browsing NSCC’s Student Awards portal, she applied for the Deanna Mohamed Community Leadership Award and was the successful applicant. Receiving this award, along with the Archy Beals Legacy Award, did more than just cover her tuition; it opened doors she never thought possible.
"I never thought I could afford the cost of going on a trip through NSCC International," Brittany shares. Thanks to the awards, she participated in the Saint Kitts & Nevis "Culture, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Professional Skills" program – her first international experience. There, she developed leadership skills and presented on African Nova Scotian culture and heritage.
Building a future with confidence
Now in her second year of Business Administration, Brittany maintains excellent grades while working as a casual administrative assistant at NSCC. This year, her student award support continued, receiving the Archy Beals Legacy Award again, along with the R.G. Sobey Leadership Award. The support she's received has been life-changing for her, especially as she also manages the medical costs for her diabetes. "When you have to worry about these things, it is hard to focus on your schoolwork and achieve a work-life balance," she explains.
The impact of this support extends beyond finances. Brittany has gained newfound confidence and a fresh outlook on life. “Things have been going really well for me since receiving the award… I have more confidence in myself and a new outlook on life which has given me the push I needed to try new things and believe in myself that I am capable of hard things.”
Giving back to NSCC students
Brittany continues to reflect on the importance of student awards, stating, "Life can be tough, and awards like these can open a lot of doors for people." She looks forward to the day when she can become a donor herself, paying forward the support that changed her life. "These awards help students keep on top of their schoolwork so they learn the skills they need to get a good job and ensure they can look after both their physical and mental health."
Awards like the Deanna Mohamed Community Leadership Award are funded by NSCC’s Rapid Response Fund, supporting the immediate and unplanned needs of students at the College. Get involved by learning more and donating to Rapid Response to support students like Brittany today.
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