Adult Basic Education helps student launch nursing career

Imagine living in a city that has a population bigger than the entire country of Canada. 

Now imagine moving to a small island far from home with a population of less than 1200  – and not one person speaks your language.

That’s what happened to Cuiping Li when she moved from Leizhou, China, to Texada Island four years ago. Sophie, the name she now uses, used to cry a lot. Feeling isolated, lonely and having a new baby, she eventually convinced her husband to move to Powell River so she could attend school at Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) Powell River campus.

The cultural shock of attending school in such a relaxed environment was startling at first.  But Sophie quickly enjoyed her upgrading classes offered through VIU’s Adult Basic Education program.

“In China, we would never question our teachers, never mind calling them by their first names,” she said.” We were supposed to memorize everyone. School was very strict.  Here, they encouraged me to think critically.”

At first, Sophie was hoping to upgrade her skills and then take courses to become a Licenced Practical Nurse.  “My teacher changed my mind,” she said. “I decided I go for the full nursing degree.” 

Sophie’s husband was amazed by the support she received from staff and faculty at VIU. “He attended three larger universities in Canada and never had the kind of intensive help I received here,” said Sophie.  Her instructors knew that Sophie was a high achiever - she already had a Diploma in Political Studies from her own country - and they were pleased with her determination and impressive work ethics.

Sailing through her upgrading classes, she also completed some first year university classes, including English and Psychology.  “My teachers were very helpful again.  They had high standards but they were very fair.”

Sophie and her family are moving once again, this time to Nanaimo, where Sophie has been accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at VIU’s Nanaimo campus. “I am sad and a little scared to be leaving Powell River, but I am excited at the same time.”

Editor’s note: Adult Basic Education courses are offered in Nanaimo, Duncan, Powell River, and Parksville-Qualicum. For information, call (250) 740-6425 in Nanaimo, (250) 248-2096 in Parksville, (250) 746-3500 in Duncan, or (604) 485-2878 in Powell River.