My CBU Story: Meet Cathy Jackson

Cape Breton University recently introduced the accelerated Bachelor of Education program as a gateway for individuals with industry experience to upgrade their credentials to pursue full-time teaching opportunities. After spending four years as a Permit Substitute Teacher and Educational Program Assistant, Cathy Jackson was drawn to this new addition and felt applying was a step in the right direction for her career.

“I decided to apply because this program would allow me to pursue a higher education while working part-time and still having time at home with my family,” says Cathy. “Honestly, I’m still in disbelief that I was accepted out of the hundreds of people who applied; I feel very lucky.” 

Cathy has been living on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia for 14 years, and says as someone with three children and a job, the eight-month online program seemed like the ideal opportunity for her. “Taking the program online wasn’t only a great way to keep organized, but a way that allowed me to stay with my family,” says Cathy. “The course being condensed into eight months was a challenge, but my classmates and instructors were a huge help in getting me through.” 

Cathy says her favourite parts of the program were the Business curriculum, Instruction courses and the opportunity to work as a Pre-Service Teacher in a local high school. Following her placement, she was offered a full-time position for the remainder of the school year.

As her graduation approaches, Cathy jokes that her hard work not only earned her a spot on the Dean’s List with Honours, but also the Dean’s List with exhaustion. Despite the challenges that come with juggling work, family and education, Cathy prevailed and is excited to enter the workforce to help make a difference in the lives of the students in her community. 

Congratulations to Cathy and the entire Fall graduating class of 2024!