We can all achieve amazing things if we believe in ourselves, says Sonia Corbo Avalo, and have a positive mindset.
And she should know.
Avalo 香蕉视频直播� wife, mother of two young children 香蕉视频直播� graduated from Okanagan College's Vernon campus with a certificate from the education assistant program.
She never missed a class. Never missed an assignment. She did all of that while undergoing cancer treatment.
On Monday, June 9, Avalo was chosen to deliver the student address to more than 115 of her peers and a capacity crowd at OC's Vernon campus' Convocation and Commencement ceremony.
"When we have that mindset, our diagnoses, challenges, and circumstances will not and can not define us," said Avalo.
She called being able to give the commencement address to her fellow students "a great achievement," particularly since English is her second language, and she was helping look after and raise her two kids with the help of her "amazing" husband, Jordan.
"I was doing treatment every 15 days, having procedures, and going through all of the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis," she said. She never even told her instructors about her condition until the end of the college year.
"I stand here before all of you with a full heart. Thank you for believing in me, and making me feel I belong to this amazing community, Okanagan College."
Convocation ceremonies are being held throughout the week at Okanagan College centres in Kelowna, Salmon Arm, and Penticton. Graduates receive diplomas or certificates from more than 70 programs.
