Please join us in congratulating Staci on being SHLC’s January 2025 Learner of the Month.
Staci was nominated by Danielle, an online educator here at Good Learning Anywhere. Here is a statement about Staci from Danielle.
I am happy to nominate Staci Martin for the Learner of the Month award! Over the past month, she has demonstrated incredible dedication and perseverance as an adult online student, truly standing out among her peers. From the very beginning, Staci has approached her studies with a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn. She consistently participates in Live class discussions and communicates openly with her Mentor, sharing valuable insights. Her determination to overcome challenges is truly commendable.
Outside of classes, Staci has demonstrated a dedication to caring full time for her grandmother after finishing her SSW, and while taking a year off, before applying to attend university for her BSW. This involvement not only showcases her commitment to personal growth but also her collaborative spirit that fosters teamwork and inclusivity and her ability to manage time effectively. In conclusion, I believe Staci deserves to be recognized as Learner of the Month for January 2025 due to her academic achievements, positive attitude, and willingness to help others. Staci embodies the spirit of lifelong learning, and her exemplary behavior and dedication to learning are truly inspiring and set a great example for her Peers and Community.
We decided to ask Staci some questions so we could share more about their story with you.
How did you first hear about our program?
I was searching online for any programs or organizations from Ontario that offered a variety of free online courses. I just happened to get lucky during my search and came across Good Learning Anywhere’s website, and it was exactly what I was looking for.
Did you have any struggles during your learning? If so, how did you overcome them?
Finding time for myself with minimal distractions to finish the lessons for each course was a challenge for me when I first started my GLA learning journey. I am already a very busy woman, taking care of my grandma full-time and being a mother to three wonderful children, but I was determined to make it work. I recently received a social service worker diploma from college, and ever since, I have been passionate about learning. Since I need to take care of myself as a caregiver and learning helps me do so, it has taken some time to find a timetable that works for my family and myself.Determination, passion, and the support of my loved ones are how I ensure I have personal time to work on my education.
What advice do you have for someone thinking about starting to improve their skills?
I would encourage anyone who is considering skill development to give it a go. Regardless of your age or family situation, you should take the time to learn new things and develop your skills for your own benefit. Going back to school in my late 30s was the best decision I have ever made. I now have a career goal I want to achieve and feel more confident as a result.
What is your greatest achievement? Or what accomplishment are you most proud of?
My greatest achievement is graduating from Fanshawe’s social service worker program and having honour roll grades throughout each semester. I am proud that since completing that program, my passion for learning new skills continues with the variety of courses through Good Learning Anywhere.
What are your goals for the future?
Right now I am content with spending time with children and husband, taking care of my grandma, and learning new skills through online courses. Eventually, I do plan on attending university and obtaining my Bachelor of Social Work and specializing in the addictions and mental health field. Once my education is over, I would love to work on my reserve and help people who are struggling with substance use disorders.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for supporting you on this journey?
I am forever grateful for the support I recieve from my family and Danielle from GLA. She has been with me every step of the way since I randomly came across their website. Thank you GLA for offering these free courses, you are changing lives!!
Congratulations Staci! All the best in 2025!