​When I began the Educational Support Program and entered my first placement, I felt excited, but I was also nervous. I had many questions. Would I be able to communicate effectively? Would I be able to support children with different needs properly? Would I be confident enough to work as an Educational Assistant?

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There was another challenge as well — I had not been a student for a long time and, honestly, I had almost forgotten how to learn. Educational methods had changed, and returning to school after a long break was not easy. There was a lot of worry, uncertainty, and inner tension. On one hand, I had a strong desire to succeed; on the other, I was afraid of making mistakes or not being able to keep up.

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Throughout my studies, the support of my professors played an enormous role. Most importantly, they believed in me. I felt like a young bird being taught how to fly. There were times when I spread my wings and flew. Then there were moments of exhaustion, self-doubt, and emotional fatigue, when it felt as though my strength was running out. Yet, thanks to the support of my professors, classmates, and the experiences I gained, I always found the strength to continue learning.

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The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) approach had a particularly profound impact on me. Through UDL, I began to see education in a completely different way. I realized that learning can be much more than an academic process; it can be deep, personal, and inspiring. For the first time in my life, I felt that education could reach not only the mind but also the heart. Gradually, I developed strong roots — a solid understanding of the Educational Assistant profession. I gained a deeper appreciation for children's needs, the importance of support, observation, patience, teamwork, and building trusting relationships. These experiences and lessons became the foundation to which my roots firmly attached.

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I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my professors: Allison Fitzgibbon, Jennifer Tate, Jim MacTaggart, Erica Glover, Suzanna Elmazi, and Jennifer Paquette. Thank you for your knowledge, support, inspiration, professionalism, and belief in me. You helped me not only gain new skills and knowledge but also believe in my own abilities.

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As I continued learning, my curiosity grew. I realized that completing this program is not the end of learning but the beginning of a new stage. The more I learned, the more I wanted to learn. I suppose I could be called a true bookworm. I enjoy reading, researching and seeking new knowledge. And I know that I will not stop here.

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I am a little sad that the program has come to an end. During this time, my professors became an important part of my professional growth. I wish there were opportunities to stay connected with them professionally, to discuss new ideas, share experiences, and continue learning. Perhaps one day there will be alumni groups or professional gatherings where graduates and professors can continue exchanging knowledge and ideas.

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Another thought that stayed with me after completing the program is that I lived quite far from the college. I would have really enjoyed having the opportunity, even just once or twice, to meet my classmates and professors in person, come to the college, and feel part of the team and professional community. I believe that these kinds of meetings help not only with learning but also with building professional connections, exchanging ideas, and inspiring one another.

Because of this, I especially appreciate all the people I met throughout the program, and I will look back on this journey with warmth and gratitude, even though much of it took place through a computer screen.

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Today, I am completing this program as a very different person from the one who walked into the classroom on the first day. I am no longer the student who arrived with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty. I leave with confidence, knowledge, practical experience, and the understanding that I have chosen the right path.

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The most important thing I am taking with me is a love for this profession — a love that my professors helped inspire and nurture, and one that will stay with me throughout my life.

Thank you to all the professors, mentors, classmates, and everyone who was part of this journey.

 

Thank you for everything you have given me!

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Anna Onuchina