Jennifer's Story: From Student Advocacy to a Future in Law

Jennifer Sharron’s journey at Northern Lakes College (NLC) demonstrates how transformative education can empower individuals to redefine their futures. As a dedicated homeschooling mom and former bookkeeping professional, Jennifer sought a flexible learning environment that would allow her to advance her career while remaining actively involved in her family’s life. Reflecting on her decision to enrol, she explains: “I enrolled at Northern Lakes College because I was looking for an option to advance in my career while still being able to homeschool my children and continue to work.”

Initially pursuing Academic Upgrading with intentions of entering the Business Administration program, Jennifer’s long-standing passion for teaching gradually redirected her path. “I had a passion for teaching all my life, and I decided that I wanted to make the career change to education versus being in the business world,” she shares. Now enrolled in the University Studies program as part of her continual education, Jennifer plans to earn her Bachelor of Education degree, and her ambitions extend even further. She envisions following her degree with a career in law, a path that combines her commitment to education with a drive for justice and advocacy.

Jennifer’s time at NLC has been enriched by the support of inspirational instructors and a close-knit community. She fondly recalls how campus mentor, Nancy, and math instructor, Wanda, helped rekindle her academic passions, while her instructors, Jeff and Wesley, provided critical insights in Indigenous Studies. Their guidance has not only built her confidence but also paved the way for her evolving career plans.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Jennifer has emerged as a dedicated leader. Currently serving her first term as president of the Northern Lakes College Students’ Association, she has been instrumental in championing student needs from food insecurity and mental health initiatives to advocating for Indigenous learners in post-secondary education. Her role has taken her from campus discussions to provincial ministerial meetings, providing her with invaluable experience.

Jennifer is quick to offer advice to fellow students, emphasizing the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks: “Don't sweat the small things. Learn from your mistakes.”

Her advocacy work not only strengthens the NLC community today but also serves as a stepping stone for her future legal career, where the skills of representation and negotiation will be crucial. Jennifer Sharron’s story is a powerful reminder of how dedication, community support, and a willingness to embrace change can lead to new horizons - one that bridges education and law for a better future.