By Christopher Sun
The Chronicle
A B.C. Housing Educational Award was recently given to a local student, with a $750 bursary attached.
“It was a huge relief because it helps with my tuition,” said Patricia Dashwood. “Every little bit counts.”
The single mother of two is in the school and community support worker program at Vancouver Island University. When she completes the program in December, she hopes to find work as an education assistant. She is currently doing a practicum five days a week and goes to class three evenings a week.
“I have a lot of family support,” Dashwood added, explaining how she is juggling a hectic schedule of school and family life.
Dashwood estimated that she has spent about $6,000 in tuition and books so far for her education.
To qualify for a BC Housing Education Award, applicants must be living in subsidized housing or in receipt of rent subsidies through BC Housing’s Rental Assistance Program. Applicants need to submit a personal statement describing their educational and personal goals, the challenges they have overcome, along with reference letters and academic transcripts.