English as a Second Language (ESL)
A new adventure and a new future for ESL student Wen Ling
Wen Ling's career was on the rise in Taiwan. As an educated woman, skilled in communications and experienced in television broadcasting, her future was bright. But there came a time when Wen Ling faced a tough choice—a choice that resulted in her being a single mother solely responsible for the welfare of two young sons. Being determined and resourceful, she worked at three jobs to provide for her family: one of those jobs ended at 4am, but allowed her to get home and grab a short nap before getting the boys up and off to school by 7. She worked diligently until her sons finished school and became independent.
A new future unfolds
Two years ago, Wen Ling travelled to Canada on her own so she could establish herself economically, culturally and socially. Her sons, now 23 and 22, stayed behind to fulfill their year-long obligation to the Taiwan army. Upon arrival in Victoria, she didn't waste a heartbeat. Wen Ling quickly enrolled in Camosun's ESL program and immersed herself in study and volunteerism. She worked her way through all the language classes and is nearly ready to graduate with her level-2 ESL certificate, which is equivalent to grade 12 English and serves as the English prerequisite for most post secondary programs.
Driven–Resourceful–Accomplished
Being a professional broadcast journalist, Wen Ling values clear communication, and she is determined to work at her pronunciation to reduce or eliminate her accent. In addition to her English language studies, she completed Camosun's 9–month Home Support and Resident Care program, she volunteers at the Rainbow Kitchen providing meals for the needy, and she trains with Victoria's Emergency Social Services team. Recently recognized at the School of Access awards ceremony with the ELD Merit Award, Wen Ling's instructors commend her hard work, determination and unwavering enthusiasm for learning.
Passing the torch
Wen Ling dared to dream, to leap, and to land on her feet. Her goal is to work hard at Camosun over the next few months in preparation to welcome her sons, and pave the way for their own Canadian adventures.
Last updated: July 8, 2011 2:58 pm
