What are some of your main roles at OCENET?
CH: As school administrator at OCENET’s Young People’s Language School (YPLS), I am primarily responsible for making sure the day-to-day operation of school goes well by registering new students, communicating with teachers, students’ families, host families and agents, as well as planning school activities. Also, I am involved in reviewing, processing and placing long term international students when they move from YPLS to OCDSB schools.
What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?
CH: I enjoy the opportunities to meet people from around the world everyday. I enjoy welcoming our international students from their first day of school here, and supporting them during their studies in Ottawa. I watch them transform from being shy to happy, confident and independent students who have great experiences in the school. The students work hard to become proficient in English language skills. Most of all, I feel very lucky to work with a great team of people at OCENET whom I consider both my colleagues and part of my family.
What have been some of your accomplishments at OCENET that you are most proud of?
CH:I once read: "Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try." I can't agree more. I remember there was a student who felt studying abroad was not a good fit for her after arriving in Ottawa. She wanted to give up and go home. However, I provided her with encouragement, gave her some strategies for success, supported her as needed, and asked her to not give up, but just to try. She is now in the university program that she aimed for and appreciated my encouragement
What new projects are you working on at OCENET?
CH: This is our second year to welcome a group of 33 students from Osaka, Japan, who will be attending OCDSB secondary schools for a year, which is very exciting for us and for them. We hope this new project will continue to bring a great group of international students to OCENET and the OCDSB annually. In addition, the OCDSB, in partnership with the Young People’s Language School, is offering the second year of its popular Summer Credit Program for newly-arriving international ESL students.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
CH: My son and I participate in many activities, including skating, soccer, swimming, zumba, piano, and cooking. We love trying out new cuisines, so we will pick one country each month to learn about their customs, culture and their food, and then cook one dish from that country. Hopefully, someday soon, we will be able to travel to those countries that we have been learning about in this special way.