Prince Rupert, B.C. - Sandy Kaardal has found a world of opportunity since her first day at Coast Mountain College (CMTN). Initially enrolling in the Business Technical Program, Sandy now works as an admissions officer at CMTN. She appreciates that the college provided the foundational skills that helped her chart her career path.
The local college (previously known as Northwest Community College) was an appealing choice for Sandy because it allowed her to stay close to her home in Terrace, where she could maintain her strong sense of community and family while pursuing her education. Sandy wanted to be a teacher; however, her interests shifted toward the potential uses of computers. Although she didn't want to open her own business, she enjoyed typing and liked being in an office environment.
Sandy committed to a 10-month office essentials course, where she learned Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher. The curriculum also covered subjects like Business English and Math, the use of business machines, and aspects of bookkeeping. She described the program as robust, offering students opportunities to apply their skills in real-world scenarios as they participated in co-op programs with local businesses. Sandy says, “When I worked at the Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC), I spent one week in their office doing whatever they needed. It was a cool experience because I got to use some of the skills I learned in the course."
Equipped with the tools for success, Sandy felt confident when her instructor asked if she would like to apply for a position at the college. With her resume in hand, she applied for the switchboard operator position. Although she felt nervous—this was only her third job since she was 14—she relied on the foundation of her lessons, remembering the skills she'd learned, such as how to prepare for an interview and which questions to ask. Sandy did her best and has worked for the college ever since.
Throughout her time at CMTN, Sandy has held numerous positions. Each was initially challenging, but she always took on tasks that pushed her to grow in what she was doing, which helped her feel more confident. Over the years, she has worked in various capacities across the Terrace and Prince Rupert campuses, including as switchboard operator, program clerk, administrative assistant to several department deans, records clerk, and now admissions officer and support for Enrolment Services. As she reflects on her responsibilities, Sandy credits the supportive and nurturing environment of the college with her success. After accumulating 30 years of experience, she remains committed to learning and improving her skills.
Sandy enjoys working with people and, although Enrolment Services presented another big learning curve, it helped her understand how all of the college departments interact. “I'm glad I have that knowledge,” Sandy says. “It feels good to say, 'I can help you,' instead of 'I don't know.'"
Despite the positive environment that has supported her growth since she was 19, Sandy acknowledges that she has faced some complex challenges in her career, including being bumped and having to bump others, which she did not enjoy, but which led to the realization that there's no point in stressing about getting ahead.
As she has always done, Sandy seeks lessons from her experiences to adapt and grow. "Try to do your best each day. Don't get caught up in negativity, as it will only weigh you down. If you can, keep enjoying what you do in your job.”
As Sandy reflects on her journey, the people she has met, the things she has achieved, and those she has helped, she continues to appreciate all her experiences at CMTN. "I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had throughout my career, to try different positions and develop my skills, and to feel valued as an employee."
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Media Contact:
Heather Bastin
Executive Director, External Relations
hbastin@coastmountaincollege.ca