How support and stability is helping Lavdeep Gill pursue a career in health care
When Lavdeep Gill first considered applying to VIU’s Health Care Assistant program, he wasn’t sure how he would balance school with caring for his 17-month-old child.
Still, he felt encouraged by the supportive and student-focused environment he found at VIU.
“It felt like the university genuinely understood the realities students face and was committed to helping,” he says.
That sense of support has shaped his experience from the start. “The exceptional support from faculty and staff has been one of the biggest highlights of my journey.”
During his time at VIU, Lavdeep has accessed a range of student services that have helped him stay focused on his goals. From library services to IT and academic supports, these resources have played a role in reducing his stress and creating stability in his life and studies, he says.
He credits his program chair Kim Fraser with helping him arrange a work placement in Nanaimo, making it possible for him to continue his studies close to home. His instructors, Marilyn Kelly and Laura Bruce, have also made a lasting impact with their patience and steady encouragement throughout.
“Everyone I have interacted with has been kind, understanding and genuinely invested in my success,” he says.
Starting post-secondary while a young parent comes with a good amount of financial uncertainty and Lavdeep was unsure exactly how he would manage to pay his tuition. The Financial Aid and Awards team walked him throughout the student loan process every step of the way.
This year, Lavdeep also received the $1,000 Otilya and Thomas Ploos Van Amstel Bursary for health-care assistant students, which he says will help him cover essential costs such as books, transportation and childcare. More importantly, it gives him the space to concentrate fully on his studies and clinical training.
“This bursary truly means a lot to me and will significantly ease some of my financial burden while I continue my studies,” he says. “Having this support motivates me to keep working toward a stable and meaningful career in health care.”
Looking back on his journey so far, Lavdeep encourages other students to take advantage of the supports around them.
“Don’t hesitate to ask for help,” he says. “Even when you’re facing family, financial or personal challenges, there are people here who will support you and help you succeed.”
Once he completes his program, Lavdeep hopes to continue building on his education to help him grow professionally and expand his opportunities.
“Supporting people during difficult stages in their life is incredibly meaningful to me and it is why I want to continue working in health care and help as many people as I can,” he says.
Getting to know Lavdeep
Favourite study spot on campus:
The library. The quiet environment helps me stay focused.
When he needs a study break:
Stepping outside for fresh air helps me recharge.
Favourite thing about living on Vancouver Island:
I appreciate the strong sense of community and calm. The natural beauty and supportive environment make it a wonderful place to study, work and raise a family.
Removing barriers for students in need
VIU is committed to supporting students like Lavdeep achieve their dreams through the Ripples of Change campaign. The campaign aims to raise $2 million to increase the number and amount of scholarships, awards and bursaries given out to students in financial need.