Elsie McFarlane – Nominated and mentored by Julie Mallon

Elsie has been with Good Learning Anywhere (GLA) for 3 years. Her goal when she first registered with GLA in 2015 was to improve her English skills.  When her online mentor, Julie, held an online meeting with Elsie, she noticed a lack of digital skills as well. Together Julie and Elsie made a plan to make sure that Elise had the support she needed and the opportunity develop her skills in all areas.

Throughout her time with GLA, Elsie has been employed but has never let it interfere with her commitment to learning.  When she is unable to attend live sessions, she has always made sure to access and complete the courses using the SABA recordings.  So far, Elsie has completed 20 courses during her time with Good Learning Anywhere.  She has successfully completed courses in all 3 platforms and successfully attained 8 Milestones.  Elsie informs her her mentor if she is unable to access or attend her courses.  Not only is Elsie regularly accessing her online courses, she also works part time.  Elsie says the courses with GLA have really helped her with her self-management, her self confidence and her ability to communicate. They have also helped her focus on achieving more in life.  She recently became a Canadian citizen in June. When I recently spoke to Elsie on the phone I mentioned how impressed I was with the number of courses she has completed. She replied that she recently showed her employer all her certificates from GLA and that they were really impressed!  She feels that she is a good example to younger people in showing them that education and learning needs to happen no matter what….and we agree!

How did you first hear about online learning with Good Learning Anywhere?

Through the Orleans Contact North site

Did you have any struggles during your learning? If so, how did you overcome them?

I did not have any struggles.

What advice do you have for someone thinking about starting to improve their skills?

It is never too late to start your journey towards self-improvement.  I embrace life long learning, and encourage newcomers that continuous learning is important.

What is your greatest achievement? Or what accomplishment are you most proud of?

Building my self-esteem and working towards my goal.

What are your goals for the future?

To practice the skills that I have learned on the job and with my team workers.

Is there anyone you would like to thank for supporting you on this journey?

My mentor Julie Mallon

Is there anything else you would like to share with people about winning this award?

This award has taught me to be persistent, and has boosted my self-esteem.