Life can take us in unexpected directions, and each turn can bring us closer to who we are meant to become. For Michelle Myden, the road to her dream career wasn’t straight, but it was rich with experiences and valuable lessons. Her story exemplifies growth, adaptation, and a commitment to following her dreams.
Dreams redirected
Michelle knew she always wanted to be a teacher; however, life took her in a different direction, and she instead pursued a Bachelor of Management with a major in Marketing. With her degree, she worked as a retail manager and later as a branch manager, building lifelong connections and gaining valuable skills through these experiences.
Stepping away from the business world, Michelle became a stay-at-home mom to raise her two young daughters. When they reached school age, she returned to school. She enrolled in a health care program at Douglas College to pursue a role more aligned with her compassionate nature as a Health Care Assistant (HCA).
As an HCA, Michelle enjoyed working at an intermediate care facility. For a decade, she assisted seniors who had dementia but still had some mobility. They became like family, and she cherished the opportunity to care for them. Despite success in this and her previous careers, she felt something was missing.
“Her second chance to pursue her hopes and dreams.”
A new beginning
Michelle’s husband received a new job opportunity that would cause the entire family to relocate. She saw this as a fresh start and a chance to explore a new career path. As a stay-at-home mom, she had learned from other parents about the significant impact that Education Assistants (EA) had on students’ lives. Seeing this ignited her passion for becoming an EA herself.
At 50 years old, Michelle discovered Stenberg College and knew it was “her second chance to pursue her hopes and dreams.” She loved the content of the courses that were perfect for building the foundations for aiding children and their growth. Even though her program was delivered entirely online, she found her instructors’ “passion and love for what they do bursting through the computer screen. The whole class cried a few times while listening to their inspiring stories.”
Her decision to become an EA was further affirmed during her two practicums—one at Birchland Elementary and another at École Kwayhquitlum Middle School in Port Coquitlam. She built relationships with each student, fostering a sense of trust and understanding. Michelle noted a particularly memorable moment when she connected deeply with a student, which solidified her belief in becoming an EA.
Her instructor, Sandi Binding, expresses that “one of Michelle’s most commendable attributes is her ability to foster connections with students and staff. She consistently demonstrates kindness and patience, contributing to a positive learning environment that makes her an invaluable asset in any educational setting.”
“Everything in life happens for a reason. There’s a purpose for everything.”
Purpose fulfilled
After graduating with a 97% grade point average (GPA), Michelle was excited to begin her new journey as an EA. Her first role was at Panorama Heights Elementary, where she spent five months supporting students with diverse learning needs. She enjoyed building connections with everyone and helping them feel safe and confident in their learning environment.
Her fellow EA colleague, Andrea Ang, says, “I can tell she genuinely loves children from how she interacts with them. Michelle is very patient and kind to the students. She is intuitive to their needs, often offering assistance or comfort before it is sought.”
The K/1 teacher, Karen Nowak, adds, “Michelle is a remarkable asset to any educational setting. Her passion for student success, strong work ethic, and interpersonal skills make her an outstanding EA. I do not doubt that she will continue to excel and positively impact students’ lives wherever she goes.”
After moving to Nanaimo, she began a new position at Qualicum-Parksville District. Michelle uses skills she learned from her program, like positive reinforcement and presumed competence, to build trust, regulate their emotions, and engage in learning. She says, “The most rewarding part is seeing students achieve independence and reach their potential.”
Michelle’s story shows that life’s twists and turns can bring us closer to our true calling. Every challenge and opportunity she encountered shaped the person she is today. Her varied experiences—from management to caring for seniors to spending time as a stay-at-home mom—have all been crucial in uncovering her deeper purpose of becoming an EA. Michelle believes “everything in life happens for a reason. There’s a purpose for everything.”
