This is a collection of student and staff stories, to make visible the vibrant online learning community that we have at TRU. Share your own story to build belonging and inspire other students walking similar paths.
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A Journey of Growth and Leadership: My Path from Water Treatment to Management
From the very beginning of my journey in water and wastewater technology, I knew that this would be a path of constant learning, growth, and adaptation. As an international student with a deep passion for sustainability and technological innovation, my career has evolved into a unique blend of personal and professional experiences. These experiences have…
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Behind the Screens: Growth and Connection in TRU Open Learning
In the ever-evolving digital landscape of TRU Open Learning, countless stories unfold every day. Through Interlink, we’ve been able to capture these snapshots of student achievements, staff insights, and the vibrant energy that makes this online community so special. Every story shared is a window into the lives of those who are shaping the TRU…
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Open learning: my saving grace
Open learning helped me reach my educational goals. After a few setbacks, it was TRU OL that provided me with a program plan and a path to complete my degree. I ultimately graduated with a BA in Criminology with Distinction. That allowed me to apply to law school in Canada. I have now graduated from…
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Teresa Penuliar – Return to Registered Nurse Practice Alumni
As an internationally educated nurse from the Philippines and a mother, achieving a balance between my career and personal life has been a significant challenge. However, TRU’s flexible online and distance learning programs have made a positive difference in my life. Completing the Return to Registered Nurse Practice Certificate at TRU has opened up endless…
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Andrew Skapenko – Interim Manager, Partner Relations
Hello. My name is Andrew Skapenko, and my story in Canada started at Thompson Rivers University. I came to TRU as an international student to study Human Resource Management. I remember it as today. It was my last semester at TRU and I was working full-time while completing my full-time studies. As a student passionate…
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TRU Alumni working at TRU
I moved to BC from Quebec when I was 19 after one year of college studies. I had visited BC when I was younger and had family still living there. Ten years later, after having 2 daughters, now aged 2 and 5-years-old, I thought it was time to go back to school. I lived in…
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Hilary Schmidt – Instructional Designer, Open Learning
Hello! I’m Hilary Schmidt, one of the dedicated and passionate team of instructional designers here at Thompson Rivers University Open Learning (OL). Like my colleagues across OL, I’m committed to creating the best possible learning experiences, with the aim of helping you not only achieve success but feel engaged in and excited about your learning….
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Studying Abroad
I started my online journey in January 2023 with TRU open learning. Currently enrolled in my second class, I was able to take my studies abroad and continue learning while in the UK. My partner had to travel there for work, so I tagged along for 2 weeks. While she was at work, I was…
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PLAR Student – Marianna Abutalipova
My OL journey is a long one… and it is not over but it is my life. My to do list is endless but this is something I finally accomplished. If we only knew what we know now, would we do things differently, choose another path? I did my PLAR in with OL this year…
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It is never late to move forward to your dreams!
My name is Leonardo Braga Batista and I was born in Brazil, but now I am a proud Canadian citizen. I believe as an immigrate I can say my journey already starts with some challenges. It can be difficult because as an average immigrate you must work twice as hard as everyone. English can be…