Like so many others, Jessica Fernandez had to adjust to virtual learning because of the COVID-19 pandemic when she started the Social Service Worker program at Niagara College.
The pandemic also derailed her first field placement, but not her dedication to becoming a social worker. As someone who always wants to help people, Fernandez said she’s particularly interested in working with youth or seniors, especially after doing a co-op placement with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
We spoke to Fernandez ahead of her June 16 graduation from the School of Community Services to find out what’s next for her.
Jessica Fernandez
Hometown: Kearney, ON
Currently lives in: Thorold
Academic achievement: Dean’s Award winner, School of Community Services
How do you feel about your upcoming convocation day?
I am looking forward to convocation day. This is a huge accomplishment for me, and I’ve completed the first step towards my goal of becoming a social worker.
How do you feel about receiving the Dean’s Award for achieving the highest GPA in your program?
I am surprised and thankful. I am just one of many deserving students who I met while enrolled at Niagara College.
What motivates you to succeed?
I was motivated to succeed by having future goals to strive for. I was also surrounded by many close friends I met during the program who helped and motivated me.
What were you doing before attending NC?
I worked full time for a couple of years after high school before enrolling.
What led you to study at NC and to your program of study?
I liked the Niagara region and wanted to learn more about career opportunities in the field of social work.
Why are you passionate about your field of study?
I have always been the type of person that wants to help everyone. I am interested in pursuing a career where I can continue to do that.
Do you have a specific career goal in mind when you enrolled in your program? Did it change since you started?
Originally, I wanted to work with children. Now that I have completed the program, I am considering the idea of pursuing a career where I can support either the elderly population or children.
How did you find your program experience?
I loved the Social Service Worker program. I was grateful that I got to have a student placement to put what I learned in lectures into real life situations.
Did you face and overcome any challenges to graduate?
Due to the pandemic, I missed my first field placement and had many online classes which was a huge adjustment. During my studies, I also worked a part-time job. I had to work very hard to manage my time.
Did you work a placement or co-op as part of your program?
Yes, I did my placement at Big Brothers Big Sisters. This was an extremely valuable experience that helped me grow both personally and professionally.
What have you been doing since you completed your studies at NC?
I have been taking some time to travel and will use the next year to determine my next steps in becoming a social worker.
Are you currently working or looking for a job in your field?
I am currently transitioning from working with an agency that supports people with disabilities to working with children.
What’s next for you? Are you planning to pursue further education?
I am going to take a gap year to work and travel before going to university.
