Pursuing a new career path

Doaa Sharaf, a dedicated mother of two, experienced a transformative journey while pursuing her Human Resource Management Certificate with UCalgary Continuing Education. Originally from Egypt, Doaa has lived in Calgary for 16 years. She has worked as a kindergarten teacher and as a play therapist for young kids with special needs for more than 12 years.

Seeking a new career path, Doaa enrolled in the Human Resource Management Certificate. The flexibility and convenience of the online courses were particularly appealing to her, as they allowed her to balance family life and studies. "I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world through my courses, and being able to connect from anywhere was very appealing to me," she shares.

Opting for a mix of online asynchronous, synchronous, and intensive courses, Doaa tailored her learning experience to suit her needs and preferences. "I went back to school after many years of being a stay-at-home mom, into a new field for me. I'm coming from a totally different background professionally. I was able to rediscover myself through the University of Calgary HR certificate because it gave me all the practical tools to be able to succeed and for me to be able to learn everything that I needed."

I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world through my courses, and being able to connect from anywhere was very appealing to me.

Throughout her studies, Doaa found support in both her family and the dedicated Continuing Education instructors. "Instructors were genuine, very caring about their students, and always willing to provide all the materials and information needed for their students to succeed," she says. Understanding the demands on their mother's time, her two sons willingly engaged in reading sessions and offered their company during study hours. Their empathy and understanding during busy periods and assignment deadlines created a nurturing environment that allowed Doaa to fully focus on her studies.

Doaa's experience at the University of Calgary opened up new possibilities for her professional life. After completing her certificate, she began working as a Human Resources Administrator at a not-for-profit organization where she had previously volunteered. Earning her Human Resource Management Certificate has opened a whole new world for Doaa. She is now considering pursuing additional certificates to combine her past experience with her new skills, ultimately aiming towards the goal of working as a career coach for youths and adults with special needs.

Take one course, you're not going to regret it. Just one course and see for yourself.

Doaa's advice to those considering further education is to take the leap and try a course. "Take one course, you're not going to regret it. Just one course and see for yourself. You're going to find yourself more confident. You're going to find yourself more knowledgeable. You're going to find yourself more excited about learning. Because honestly, it gives you up-to-date, very practical, top trends, information, knowledge tools, tips and tricks, everything that you need."

Doaa is grateful for the programs and courses offered by the University of Calgary and believes it is a golden opportunity for those looking to start something new in their lives. She says "Joining UCalgary Continuing Education was one of the best decisions that I made to enhance my self-confidence, pursue a new career path, and be able to get a job in my new field."

Join Doaa and countless others who have chosen UCalgary Continuing Education. Discover the wide range of courses and certificates tailored to your needs, aspirations, and schedule.

Doaa Sharaf, Graduate
Human Resource Management Certificate