The recent grad and Chiu School of Business valedictorian (June 2019) was born in South Africa and lived in Arizona for 15 years before immigrating to Canada in 2013. That was when she began working as an assistant at her father’s law firm, which led her to pursue an education in the field.

“I wanted to provide a better future for my son, including financial security,” she says. “I quickly realized I have a passion for immigration law after helping many people immigrate to Canada.”

Christa builds a new life

Christa moved to Canada to build a new life for her and her son after struggling with addiction issues. She’s grateful for the support she received from her family who taught her the power of kindness.

“I had to relearn a lot of things including social skills, the ability to learn new things, and how to be a contributing member of society,” she recalls. “Deciding to come to Bow Valley College was a very scary thought at the beginning, but now I am so happy I conquered that fear.”

Christa chose Bow Valley College because of how reputable the college is, and its central location.

“I am glad I chose Bow Valley College, and could not imagine what my life would have been like if I was not attending this college, she says.

Christa appreciates all of the opportunities that Bow Valley College students have. She thrived in the collegial atmosphere and was a recipient of numerous awards including: Cal Wenzel Family Award, Carol and Larry Ryder Award, and a Financial Needs bursary.

“My time at Bow Valley College has taught me that failures can be turned into success, idleness into motivation, fear into strength, and our self-doubt can be turned into our greatest accomplishments,” she says.

Volunteering and learning inspires confidence

Christa volunteered at a number of events at Bow Valley College during her time here. She participated in the Human Library, where she shared a powerful story.

“I used my story as a recovering heroin addict to address the stigma around addiction and I talked about the obstacles I faced during recovery.” She had very open and honest conversations with people, “I literally felt like I was an open book.”

Christa also helped her fellow students wherever she could, especially the International students in her program who were interested in immigrating to Canada.

“I have met so many amazing people, instructors, and some very influential people while attending Bow Valley College,” she says.  “And I learned a lot about what I would like to accomplish in the coming years,” she says.

Christa continues to work in her father’s law firm. Her dream is to create or work for a business that assists legal support staff in training employees, giving accreditations, and assisting with other various legal procedures and software.